The Detroit Lions still have a realistic path to winning the NFC North despite facing long odds late in the season, according to ESPN’s Dan Graziano.

After a statement Week 14 win over the Dallas Cowboys, the Lions kept their playoff hopes alive and remain within striking distance of the Green Bay Packers in the division standings. Detroit currently sits at 8-5, just 1.5 games behind Green Bay, giving them an outside chance to secure a third straight NFC North title if key results go their way.

Lions’ Path to an NFC North Title Still Alive

Graziano believes the Lions’ recent performance — especially their dominant showing against Dallas — proves they can still challenge for the division crown. One major advantage is Detroit’s strong point differential, which currently leads the NFC North.

The Lions’ remaining schedule includes:

Road game vs. the Los Angeles Rams

Home matchup vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers

Road games vs. the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears

Detroit will likely need to win out and hope for losses by Green Bay to make a late push toward the top of the division standings.

Packers and Bears Face Difficult Closing Schedules

The Packers do not have an easy finish to the season. Green Bay’s remaining opponents include:

At Denver Broncos

At Chicago Bears

Home vs. Baltimore Ravens

At Minnesota Vikings

Meanwhile, the Bears also face a challenging path with games against the Cleveland Browns, Packers, San Francisco 49ers, and Lions.

Graziano pointed out that if Detroit handles its business, the tough schedules ahead for Green Bay and Chicago could open the door for a late-season divisional shake-up.

Realistic Outlook: Lions Likely Aiming for Wild Card Spot

While a division comeback remains possible, Graziano cautioned that Green Bay remains the favorite. The Packers’ defense has been dominant, and quarterback Jordan Love has built strong chemistry with Christian Watson, making Green Bay a legitimate Super Bowl contender.

Despite the uphill battle, Detroit remains firmly in the playoff hunt and could still make noise in the NFC race as the regular season comes to a close.

Keywords: Detroit Lions, NFC North, Green Bay Packers, Dan Graziano, Lions playoff chances, NFC North standings, Packers schedule, Lions vs Cowboys, NFL playoff picture