As the Detroit Lions return from their bye week, they sit near the top of the NFC standings — but the path to January is filled with potential traps. Every matchup ahead could impact playoff positioning, home-field advantage, and Detroit’s push for a deep postseason run.
Here’s a breakdown of the Lions’ final 10 games, ranked from easiest to toughest, factoring in opponent strength, location, and timing.
- Week 12 vs. New York Giants (1:00 PM, FOX)
The most favorable matchup left on Detroit’s schedule comes at home against a New York Giants team struggling to find its footing. The Giants have battled inconsistency on both sides of the ball, and with the game at Ford Field, the Lions should have a strong upper hand in this one.
- Week 9 vs. Minnesota Vikings (1:00 PM, FOX)
Detroit’s first game after the bye is a divisional test against the Vikings. Minnesota has shown flashes of quality play but remains unpredictable. With the home crowd behind them, the Lions should have a clear advantage and an opportunity to set the tone for the second half of the season.
- Week 16 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (4:25 PM, CBS)
Late December brings the Steelers to town. While Pittsburgh’s defense remains elite, their offensive struggles have been well-documented. Playing in the comfort of Ford Field gives Detroit a major edge, making this one of the more winnable games remaining.
- Week 17 at Minnesota Vikings (4:30 PM, Netflix)
Round two with Minnesota comes on the road. Divisional games in hostile environments are never easy, especially at U.S. Bank Stadium. Still, the Lions have proven they can match up well against the Vikings, and if they stay disciplined, this one is certainly within reach.
- Week 14 vs. Dallas Cowboys (8:15 PM, Prime Video)
Under the Thursday Night Football spotlight, Detroit will host one of the NFC’s most talented rosters. Dallas is strong in all phases of the game, and while Ford Field will be buzzing, this contest will serve as a true measuring stick for Dan Campbell’s squad.
- Week 18 at Chicago Bears (TBD)
Ending the regular season at Soldier Field is rarely straightforward. Cold weather, swirling winds, and the intensity of a divisional rivalry could make this game unpredictable. The Lions’ maturity and playoff urgency should help them manage the chaos, but they’ll need to stay focused.
- Week 10 at Washington Commanders (4:25 PM, FOX)
The Commanders have been competitive at home, powered by a disruptive defensive front that can throw offenses off balance. Detroit must avoid a letdown here — this road game could easily turn tricky if execution slips.
- Week 13 vs. Green Bay Packers (1:00 PM, FOX)
The annual Thanksgiving clash with Green Bay promises to carry major stakes in the NFC North race. The Packers have been efficient and well-coached, meaning Detroit will need to bring its best effort to defend home turf in one of the season’s most anticipated matchups.
- Week 15 at Los Angeles Rams (4:25 PM, FOX)
Traveling to Los Angeles in mid-December won’t be easy. The Rams have been among the NFC’s most complete teams this year, and this game could feel like a postseason preview. Expect a playoff-type atmosphere that tests Detroit’s poise on the road.
- Week 11 at Philadelphia Eagles (8:20 PM, NBC)
The toughest game left on Detroit’s schedule comes in prime time against the Eagles. Philadelphia is nearly unbeatable at home, especially under the lights at Lincoln Financial Field. For the Lions to leave with a win, they’ll need to play their most physical, mistake-free football of the year.
Final Thoughts
Detroit’s final stretch offers a mix of favorable home contests and demanding road trips. Ford Field will host several marquee games that could define the Lions’ season, while challenging visits to Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and Washington will test their toughness and composure.
If the Lions can capitalize on their easier matchups and split their toughest ones, they’ll be right in the mix for the NFC’s No. 1 seed when January arrives.
