The Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers are set to square off for their first of two meetings this season, and there are more than bragging rights on the line, as the winner will be in first place in the NFC North.

The Lions’ offense has been on an absolute tear over the last four weeks, with Detroit dropping 31 points or more in each contest, and 40 points or more in three of them. The Lions exploded for 52 points in Week 8 against the Tennessee Titans.

Meanwhile, the Packers are riding a four-game winning streak, and while the offense has no doubt played well, the defense has been impressive, also, which makes for an interesting matchup with Detroit.

The Packers have a few question marks on both sides of the ball. Cornerback Jaire Alexander and running back Josh Jacobs are both questionable, as is quarterback Jordan Love, although Love is reportedly expected to play.

Other than the players on injured reserve, like star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, for example, the Lions are in good shape injury-wise. The biggest concern was quarterback Jared Goff, but he is off the injury report and will play.

With the division being so close, every NFC North matchup is crucial from here on out. Now, a look at how experts see things going between the Lions and Packers in Week 9.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 9: Lions vs. Packers

Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News: Lions 30, Packers 23

Iyer: “The Packers are looking at Malik Willis starting at QB again over a banged-up Jordan Love (groin). That will limit their needed offensive firepower to overcome another blowup game for the Lions’ offense. The Packers can be picked apart inside in the passing game and also are shaky against the run at times, playing right into the hands of Detroit’s explosive, balanced attack.”

Bill Bender, Sporting News: Lions 31, Packers 26

Bender: “Will Love (groin) play? That would take some shine off this marquee NFC North battle even if Malik Willis has played well in Love’s place. The Packers lead the NFL in takeaways (19), and the Lions (15) are tied for second. Green Bay needs to force turnovers on Jared Goff, who hasn’t thrown an interception in his past four games. Detroit wins at Lambeau Field for the third consecutive season.”

Pete Prisco, CBS Sports: Lions 29, Packers 23

Prisco: “This is an enormous game in the division, but the Packers have big concerns with Jordan Love and his injured groin. He will be a long shot to play, which means it’s likely another start for Malik Willis, who is 2-0 this year as a starter. That will mean more of a reliance on the run game for the Packers. The Lions are dynamic on offense, which is why controlling the clock is key against them. But I don’t think the Packers will do it well enough without Love, so give me the Lions.”

ESPN

• Stephania Bell: Lions
• Matt Bowen: Lions
• Mike Clay: Lions
• Jeremy Fowler: Packers
• Dan Graziano: Lions
• Kalyn Kahler: Lions
• Kimberley A. Martin: Lions
• Eric Moody: Packers
• Jason Reid: Lions
• Lindsey Thiry: Lions
• Seth Wickersham: Packers