The Detroit Lions have a mini bye week following their thrilling 34-31 victory over Green Bay on Thursday night. This break couldn’t come at a better time as the team deals with injuries.
With 10 days before hosting Buffalo on Dec. 15, the Lions are hopeful several starters will return to action.
Here’s a closer look at Detroit’s remaining four games to conclude the regular season:
 Week 15 vs. Buffalo
This matchup is being hyped as a potential Super Bowl preview. The Lions, at 12-1 and leading the NFC, face the 10-2 Bills, considered by many as the AFC’s best. Despite Kansas City’s strong record, Buffalo’s earlier victory over them bolsters their claim.
Twentyman: The Bills feature a top-five offense and a top-10 defense in points per game. With MVP contender Josh Allen at quarterback, Buffalo may be the most balanced opponent Detroit has faced this season.
Week 16 at Chicago
Detroit narrowly defeated Chicago 23-20 on Thanksgiving, but the Bears had a chance to change the outcome if not for poor clock management in the final minute. Now, the Lions travel to Chicago, where winter weather could play a significant role.
Twentyman: This marks Detroit’s first encounter with the Bears under interim head coach Thomas Brown, who has impressed his players early on. The big question is how much different Chicago will look compared to their previous matchup.
Week 17 at San Francisco
This Monday Night Football game is a rematch of last season’s NFC Championship. Though promising on paper, injuries could overshadow its initial hype.
Twentyman: The 49ers have been plagued by injuries, with 30 players missing over 120 games this season. At 5-7 and last in the NFC West, San Francisco’s All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey is out for the season after a Week 13 PCL injury. The 49ers might be fighting for their playoff lives in this game.
Week 18 vs. Minnesota
Minnesota has remained competitive, pressuring Detroit in the NFC North with a 10-2 record heading into Week 14. The Vikings are only 1.5 games behind, making the division race intense.
Twentyman: This final game could be a showdown for the NFC North title and potentially the No. 1 seed in the conference. The Lions rallied to beat Minnesota in Week 7. Both teams rely on complementary football and find ways to win, setting up a potentially epic finale.
