With the Detroit Lions sitting at an impressive 12-1, their chances of securing the No. 1 seed in the NFC and locking in their playoff position look strong.
However, a few key Week 15 matchups could further solidify their postseason path. Here are five teams Lions fans should root for this week to help maximize their playoff prospects.
1. 49ers (6-7) over Rams (7-6) – 8:15 p.m. ET – TNF Prime Video
While the Lions could likely defeat the Rams in a playoff matchup, the presence of Matthew Stafford makes the Rams a dangerous opponent.
Stafford’s ability to perform under pressure could pose a challenge, and Detroit would prefer to avoid facing their former quarterback. Rooting for the 49ers to beat the Rams would reduce the chances of a Stafford-led showdown in the postseason.
2. Saints (5-8) over Commanders (8-5) – 1:00 p.m. ET – FOX
Though the Commanders are unlikely to impact the Lions unless Detroit loses out, this game could still have minor implications for playoff seeding.
While the stakes are low, every small advantage counts. Lions fans should back the Saints in this matchup to help ensure the best possible playoff positioning for Detroit.
3. Steelers (10-3) over Eagles (11-2) – 4:25 p.m. ET – FOX
This game is pivotal for the NFC’s No. 1 seed race. With the Lions holding a one-game lead over the Eagles, a Steelers win would create more breathing room for Detroit.
While Coach Dan Campbell embraces the pressure of staying on top, securing the top spot early would ease the path forward. A Steelers upset over the Eagles would be a major boost for Detroit’s playoff ambitions.
4. Seahawks (8-5) over Packers (9-4) – 8:20 p.m. ET – SNF ESPN
The Packers are still technically in the NFC North race, though not a serious threat to the Lions’ division lead.
A Packers loss would further reduce any lingering competition for the division title. Lions fans should root for the Seahawks to defeat Green Bay, inching Detroit closer to clinching the NFC North crown.
5. Bears (4-9) over Vikings (11-2) – 8:00 p.m. ET – MNF ABC/ESPN
A Vikings loss coupled with a Lions win would give Detroit a two-game lead in the NFC North with only three games remaining.
This cushion would make it significantly easier for the Lions to wrap up the division title. Lions fans should hope for the Bears to deliver a setback to the Vikings in this key matchup.
Positioning for Success
Although the Lions control their playoff destiny, the outcomes of these Week 15 games could provide additional clarity and advantage.
By rooting for the 49ers, Saints, Steelers, Seahawks, and Bears, Lions fans can support their team’s push for the NFC’s top seed and an NFC North title. With only a few weeks left in the regular season, these matchups could be crucial for Detroit’s playoff aspirations.
