The Detroit Lions secured a playoff spot in Week 14 after their thrilling 34-31 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night, marking the NFC’s first playoff berth of the season.

Despite a wave of injuries, particularly on defense, the Lions managed to overcome two second-half deficits to seal the win.

“I told the team this will be one you’ll never forget,” said Lions head coach Dan Campbell. “I spoke with [Jared] Goff pregame. He’s played so many games, had a long career, and there are probably a few he doesn’t remember, but I told him this one will stick with him. This game will be unforgettable. A lot of it comes down to what we had to overcome, the hand we were dealt, and I love the fact that our guys don’t make excuses. They just find a way. Everyone on this team believed we’d win, and we did.”

This accomplishment marks the first time since 1995 that the Lions have reached the playoffs in back-to-back seasons, with Wayne Fontes’ team going to three straight postseasons.

After making history in 2023 with the franchise’s first playoff berth since 2016, first playoff win since 1991, and first NFC North title, the Lions still have more to accomplish in the regular season.

Their 11th straight win keeps them atop the NFC standings and brings them closer to securing a first-round bye and homefield advantage. Before reaching those goals, Detroit (12-1) must also clinch a second consecutive division title, something the franchise hasn’t done since 1954 when head coach Buddy Parker and Hall of Fame quarterback Bobby Layne led the Lions to three straight division titles.

The Minnesota Vikings (10-2) trail the Lions by two games in the win column.

Now the top team in the NFC, the Lions are pushing forward in their pursuit of their first-ever Super Bowl appearance. Thursday night’s victory ensured they remain in the hunt.

Next, the Lions will face the Buffalo Bills in a Dec. 15 showdown that holds postseason implications for both teams.

“Our goal is to secure that No. 1 seed, and that’s the priority,” Campbell said. “Of course, we need to win the division first, and this brings us closer to that. We’ve been talking about our goals all year, even since last season. We know what we want to do, and now it’s about executing.”