The Detroit Lions could have rested their starters on Monday night against the San Francisco 49ers with the knowledge that it's a Week 18 tilt with the Minnesota Vikings that will determine the NFC North and the conference's top seed. The San Francisco 49ers, already eliminated from playoff contention, could have also played out the string.

Newsweek Sports' expert predictions for Detroit Lions vs. San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football Week 17.

The Lions travel to Santa Clara to battle the 49ers on Monday Night Football. The 49ers-Lions game starts at 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN+, and ABC. Nope. But Peyton and Eli will return for Wild Card Weekend on January 13, 2025.