Here’s a bold statement for you: no matter what unfolds on Sunday, the Detroit Lions are poised to make a serious playoff push. But here’s where it gets controversial—while the Lions sit comfortably in third place in the NFC North after their thrilling Thursday night victory over the Dallas Cowboys, the real drama is just beginning. As of Sunday morning, the standings look like this:
NFC North Standings:
1. Chicago Bears: 9-3
2. Green Bay Packers: 8-3-1
3. Detroit Lions: 8-5
4. Minnesota Vikings: 4-8
The Lions are on the brink of closing the gap, and it all hinges on the highly anticipated Bears vs. Packers showdown at 4:25 p.m. ET. And this is the part most people miss—regardless of who wins, the Lions benefit. If the Bears take the victory, the Lions trail the Packers by just a half-game. If Green Bay emerges victorious, the Lions are only one game behind Chicago, setting the stage for a pivotal Week 18 clash between the Lions and Bears. But the intrigue doesn’t end there. In two weeks, the Bears and Packers will face off again, this time in Chicago, giving the Lions even more opportunities to capitalize on their rivals’ losses.
Here’s the controversial take: While any loss for a divisional opponent is good news, the Lions’ best-case scenario is for one of these teams to drop both games. Personally, I’m rooting for the Bears to stumble—it opens up more pathways for the Lions to secure a postseason spot. But hey, root for whoever you think gives the Lions the edge. No matter the outcome, Week 14 is already a win for Detroit.
Join the live discussion in the comments during the Bears/Packers game, and don’t forget to keep an eye on the other matchups. If you’re feeling adventurous, scout the Rams vs. Cardinals (4:25 p.m., FOX) or, for the truly curious, check out Broncos vs. Raiders (4:05 p.m., CBS). Now, here’s the question: Which outcome of the Bears/Packers game do you think best serves the Lions’ playoff aspirations? Let’s hear your take in the comments!
