Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs is urging his teammates to shift into postseason mode early as Detroit prepares for a massive Week 13 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. After a rough stretch in the 2025 NFL season, the Lions enter the final five games knowing their playoff hopes are hanging by a thread.

The Lions’ 31-24 Thanksgiving loss to the Green Bay Packers dropped Detroit to 7-5, placing them third in the NFC North behind Chicago and Green Bay. That result dealt a major blow to their postseason outlook, leaving the Lions currently outside the NFC playoff picture.

Despite the setback, Gibbs believes Detroit can still turn things around — but only if they treat every remaining matchup as a must-win.

“We need to treat it like playoff games,” Gibbs said, emphasizing the urgency ahead of Thursday’s clash with the Cowboys.

Lions Face High-Stakes Stretch Run

Last season, Detroit dominated the NFC with 15 wins, but the 2025 campaign has been far more challenging. With five games left, the Lions must leapfrog the Packers to get back into a Wild Card spot. That task won’t be easy, considering Green Bay just handed them their latest loss.

Still, Detroit has reasons for optimism. The Bears and Packers face one another next week, guaranteeing one of those teams picks up a loss — a potential opening for Detroit. If the Lions manage to win out, they’ll have a strong chance to return to the postseason for the second time in three years.

Detroit’s message? Take it one game at a time and stay locked in.

Cowboys Bring Momentum Into Thursday Night Showdown

The Dallas Cowboys, fighting for their own slim playoff hopes, enter this matchup riding a three-game winning streak, including a major 31-28 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Quarterback Dak Prescott has found his rhythm, giving Dallas added confidence as they try to keep their season alive.

This sets the stage for an intense, high-pressure clash in primetime. Both teams are desperate. Both teams need a win. And both teams are treating this matchup like a postseason battle.

As Gibbs and the Lions prepare for the Cowboys, the mission is clear: win now, or watch the playoff dream slip away.