The Lions are hearing the doubters, but they’re not listening.
Despite losing key players to injuries, this 12-2 team still controls its destiny.
Dan Campbell isn’t having any of it: “Nobody writes our story. We have the pen.”
The goal is clear—clinch the NFC North and secure a first-round bye in the playoffs.
Here’s how they can make it happen.
Clinch the NFC North
The race for the NFC North is down to the Lions and Vikings, both at 12-2.
The Lions’ remaining schedule ranks 14th in difficulty, including games against the Bears, 49ers, and Vikings.
If the Lions win out, they take the division. But the Vikings have a shot too.
If the Vikings win their next two against Seattle and Green Bay, the Lions still have a chance with a win in Week 18.
If the Vikings slip up against the Seahawks or Packers, the Lions could clinch the division early.
The Lions have breathing room, but they need to stay focused.
Clinch the No. 1 Seed
If the Lions win their next three, they could finish tied with the Eagles at 15-2.
The key? The Lions own the conference-record tiebreaker.
The Eagles have a soft schedule, but the Lions aren’t depending on them.
The Lions need to handle their business, beat the Bears and 49ers, and hope for a Vikings slip-up.
Even at 14-3, the Lions would still secure the top seed if they win more NFC games than the Eagles.
Staying Focused
The Lions aren’t fazed by the noise around them.
“We’re 12-2 and the sky is falling?” says defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
Jared Goff agrees: “We control our destiny.”
The Lions are approaching this stretch like a 3-game season, with everything on the line.
Injuries hurt, but they have enough to close strong.
A first-round bye would give them a much-needed rest.
No matter what happens, they’re already playoff-bound.
