The NFL still competes with the NBA with its own slate of games on Christmas Day.
Here are our top NFL picks for Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25.
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings will host the Detroit Lions in a Christmas Day game. Technically, the Lions are still playing for the playoffs, although they’re unlikely to get there after last week’s loss. The Minnesota Vikings were 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 some information on him, but opportunities have been limited.
The rookie quarterback has played 13 total drives in the NFL this season. He took his team to just one field goal, while throwing more touchdowns to the opposing team than his own. It can also be argued that the New York Giants defense caused this field goal rather than Brosmer due to several defensive penalties.
The Vikings get a reasonable matchup against the Detroit Lions, who have been susceptible to big plays this season. They will, however, be without several offensive players, which leaves a lot to be desired on the offensive side of the ball.
This isn’t so much a bet on the Lions’ defense as it is against the Vikings’ offense. They are dealing with a plethora of injuries and are not elite yet. It’s a terrible place for them to succeed.
Where to bet: Minnesota Vikings under 17.5 points | -128 on FanDuel Sportsbook
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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 first place overall in the AFC and they will need to keep winning. The Chiefs have been eliminated, and this is their opportunity to play spoilsport.
Denver ranks fifth in the NFL in points allowed (.311) per game this season. They have also had great success on the road. In total, they give up less than 20 points per game in 2025.
The key here is that Kansas City is left with Chris Oladokun at quarterback. He struggled to produce against an atrocious Tennessee Titans defense last week. He also consistently struggled to produce at a high level against the 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 is very little reason to believe they will have much 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
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