The Green Bay Packers will seek to bounce back from a previous loss to the Detroit Lions as they visit Ford Field for a pivotal Week 14 rematch.
With a 9-3 record, the Packers have already matched their win total from last season, while the 11-1 Lions are aiming for the NFC’s top spot and a first-round playoff bye. This matchup isn’t just another rivalry game—it’s crucial for both teams’ playoff hopes. Green Bay looks to close the gap in the NFC North, while Detroit hopes to solidify its position at the top.
Here are three reasons why the Packers could pull off an upset in Detroit for the second consecutive year.
Reason 1: Packers Start Strong
The Lions have been particularly dangerous when they take an early lead, allowing their offense to operate smoothly with a balanced attack. Detroit’s ground game, led by Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, along with Jared Goff’s efficient passing, allows them to dictate the flow of the game once they establish control.
This is why the Packers must take control early. Over their current three-game win streak, Green Bay has outscored opponents 31-3 in the first quarter, setting the tone and forcing teams to abandon their game plans. In their Thanksgiving victory over Miami, the Packers’ opening drive was a key moment, with Jordan Love leading a methodical drive to put points on the board. If Green Bay can strike first, they can disrupt the Lions’ rhythm and force them into an uncomfortable situation.
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5 Packers Who Could Be on Their Way Out
The Green Bay Packers have a reputation for making savvy roster decisions, knowing when to part ways with players who are nearing the end of their time with the team. This includes making tough choices on veterans, like Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams, and role players like Jonathan Owens.
In the NFL, roster turnover is inevitable as teams manage salary caps, draft picks, and youth development. While some players will be retained, others will likely be on their way out of Green Bay. Here are five Packers who could be nearing the end of their careers with the team.
Andre Dillard
Andre Dillard’s time in Green Bay may be short-lived. Signed to a one-year, $1.125 million deal this offseason, Dillard was brought in to provide depth on the offensive line as a swing tackle. The Packers took a gamble, unsure whether Rasheed Walker could handle the starting left tackle role, and Dillard was brought in as insurance.
However, Walker has played well beyond expectations, and Zach Tom has solidified the right tackle spot. Green Bay has also been fortunate with offensive line health, meaning Dillard has only seen limited action, logging just four snaps this season. As a former first-round pick, Dillard will likely have suitors in the offseason, but it’s difficult to envision him returning to Green Bay.
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Packers Respond to Lions’ Game Plan Leak
Ahead of their crucial Thursday Night Football matchup, a controversy emerged when Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs inadvertently leaked his team’s game plan. Gibbs posted a video on Snapchat, showing Lions’ protections with code words visible on a whiteboard. The leaked information quickly spread online, sparking talk of an advantage for the Packers.
However, Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur dismissed the significance of the leak. He told reporters that the leaked code words were “pretty overrated” and noted that coaches already have access to similar information from TV broadcasts. According to LaFleur, the real task is executing on the field, not relying on leaked information.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson also downplayed the incident, emphasizing that no amount of information could substitute for the challenge of stopping their high-powered offense. LaFleur shares this perspective, acknowledging that even with the knowledge of the Lions’ plays, the Packers must still execute and stop Detroit’s potent attack.
