The Detroit Lions’ playoff hopes hang in the balance as they face the Los Angeles Rams in Week 15, a pivotal NFC matchup that could define their season. With the Rams surging behind former Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, Detroit must find a way to slow down one of the league’s most dangerous offenses while capitalizing on timely playmakers of its own.
Los Angeles brings a balanced attack, featuring a physical defensive front and an explosive offense—two areas that have troubled Detroit at various points this season. Still, the Lions remain firmly in the NFC Wild Card race, and with several key contributors capable of swinging momentum, a postseason push is very much alive.
Here are three Lions players who could decide Detroit’s fate against the Rams in Week 15.
Aidan Hutchinson: Pressure That Changes Games
While Aidan Hutchinson isn’t leading the Lions in sacks this season—Al-Quadin Muhammad currently holds that honor—his impact remains undeniable. Hutchinson continues to command double teams and chip blocks, creating opportunities for teammates and disrupting opposing game plans.
The former No. 2 overall pick has generated nearly 80 quarterback pressures this season, consistently collapsing pockets even when he doesn’t record the sack. If the Rams are forced to shift protection toward Muhammad, Hutchinson could finally break through with game-changing plays against Stafford.
For Detroit’s defense, sustained pressure up front is non-negotiable—and Hutchinson remains the engine that drives it.
Jack Campbell: The Defensive Tone-Setter
Linebacker Jack Campbell has quietly emerged as one of the most important players on Detroit’s defense in 2025. Working alongside Alex Anzalone, Campbell has been a force at every level, ranking fourth in the NFL with 67 solo tackles, while also adding five sacks and three forced fumbles.
Campbell’s versatility will be critical against a Rams offense that leans on both Kyren Williams and Blake Corum. His ability to fill gaps, blitz effectively, and punch the ball free gives Detroit a chance to steal possessions and disrupt Stafford’s rhythm.
If the Lions are going to control the middle of the field, Campbell must lead the charge.
Jahmyr Gibbs: The X-Factor on Offense
No list of impactful Lions players is complete without Jahmyr Gibbs. The explosive running back is one touchdown away from becoming the NFL’s all-time leader in rushing touchdowns before age 24, surpassing franchise legend Barry Sanders.
Beyond the milestone, Gibbs presents matchup problems all over the field. His speed, vision, and pass-catching ability add another dimension to what remains one of the NFL’s most dangerous offenses. In his last meeting with the Rams, Gibbs totaled 74 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown, proving he can hurt Los Angeles in multiple ways.
The Rams allow just 103.5 rushing yards per game, but if Gibbs finds space early, Detroit’s offense could control tempo and keep Stafford on the sideline.
Final Word
If the Detroit Lions are going to keep their season alive in Week 15, it will require elite defensive effort and timely offensive sparks. Aidan Hutchinson’s pressure, Jack Campbell’s physicality, and Jahmyr Gibbs’ explosiveness could be the difference between a fading season and a renewed playoff push.
Against a red-hot Rams team, Detroit’s margin for error is slim—but the right players stepping up could change everything.
