Today

PITTSBURGH AT DETROIT

* Kickoff: 9:30 a.m.

* TV: Channel 2.

* Records: Steelers 7-4, Lions 4-7.

* Story line: In three of the last four seasons, the Lions have used Thanksgiving Day victories to fuel a run to the playoffs. They’re in a tougher spot this year, with games coming up against the Jacksonville Jaguars, San Francisco 49ers and Atlanta Falcons. The Steelers’ Kordell Stewart has completed 72% of his passes and registered a 100.5 quarterback rating in the last four games after completing 50% and posting a 55.9 rating in the first seven. The Lions’ Barry Sanders has rushed for 898 yards in nine Thanksgiving Day games.

* Line: Steelers by 2.

MINNESOTA AT DALLAS

* Kickoff: 1 p.m.

* TV: Channel 11.

* Records: Vikings 10-1, Cowboys 8-3.

* Story line: Though the Vikings all but wrapped up the NFC Central title with Sunday’s 28-14 victory over the Green Bay Packers, this game could have playoff implications. The Vikings hold a one-game lead over the Atlanta Falcons and a two-game advantage over the Cowboys and 49ers for the NFC’s home-field advantage. “You can’t relish the last game you played,” Viking defensive lineman Jerry Ball says. “You have to be ready to go--now.” The Vikings are without wide receiver Jake Reed, who had back surgery Tuesday.

* Line: Vikings by 3.