NFL Christmas Day Bet Picks Lions vs. Vikings, Broncos vs. Chiefs Predictions

The NFL is still competing with the NBA with their own slate of games on Christmas Day.

These are our top NFL on Christmas Day picks on Thursday December 25th.

Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings will host the Detroit Lions in a Christmas Day game. The Lions are still technically playing for the playoffs, although it’s unlikely they make it after last week's loss. The Minnesota Vikings have been eliminated.

The key here is that the Vikings don’t have a truly viable quarterback option. Carson Wentz and JJ McCarthy are injured, leaving Max Brosmer to take over. We have a bit of information on him, but the opportunities have been limited.

The rookie quarterback has played 13 total drives in the NFL this season. He’s taken his team to only a single field goal, while throwing more touchdowns to the opposing team than his own. One can also make the argument that the New York Giants' defense caused that field goal rather than Brosmer because of several defensive penalties.

The Vikings get a reasonable matchup against the Detroit Lions, who have been susceptible to the big play this season. They’ll be without several offensive players, though, leaving plenty to be desired on the offensive side of the ball.

This isn’t as much of a bet on the Lions’ defense as it is against the Vikings’ offense. They’re dealing with a plethora of injuries, and they haven’t been elite regardless. It’s a terrible spot for them to find success.

Where to Bet: Minnesota Vikings under 17.5 points | -128 at FanDuel Sportsbook

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos

The Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos will face off in an AFC West matchup. The Broncos are playing for the top overall seed in the AFC, and they’ll need to continue winning. The Chiefs have been eliminated, and this is their opportunity to play spoiler.

Denver ranks fifth in the NFL in points allowed (.311) per play this season. They’ve found plenty of success on the road as well. Overall, they’re giving up less than 20 points per game in 2025.

The key here is that Kansas City is only left with Chris Oladokun at quarterback. He struggled to produce against an atrocious Tennessee Titans defense last week. He’s also consistently struggled to produce at a high level against backups in the preseason.

This is an offense that can’t rely on the running game, and they’ll be without Rashee Rice again. There’s very little reason to believe they’re going to find a ton of success in this game.

Where to Bet: Kansas City Chiefs under 10.5 points | -115 at DraftKings Sportsbook

2025 NFL Season Betting Record: 24-35