Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell did not mince words after his team squandered a critical opportunity to strengthen its playoff chances. Following Sunday’s loss to the Los Angeles Rams—where Detroit’s defense struggled mightily in the second half—the Lions no longer control their own postseason destiny.

Despite the setback, the Lions remain alive in the NFC playoff race. At 8–6, Detroit can still qualify if it takes care of business and finishes the regular season with three consecutive wins. However, the margin for error is now razor-thin.

Lions Among NFL’s Biggest Underachievers in 2024

Entering the season with high expectations, the Lions are now in danger of joining the Kansas City Chiefs as one of the NFL’s biggest underachievers relative to preseason projections. Even if Detroit manages to sneak into the playoffs, recent results against elite NFC competition raise serious concerns.

The Lions were swept by the Green Bay Packers, lost to the Philadelphia Eagles, and most recently fell to the Rams—three measuring-stick games that exposed how far Detroit still is from the conference’s top tier.

Dan Campbell’s Blunt Message to His Team

After the loss, Campbell delivered a raw and emotional message, emphasizing accountability and urgency.

“It should burn at you. It should eat you up. Do not go numb to the losing,” Campbell said. “Now you have firsthand knowledge of what probably the top of the NFC looks like right now. And we’re not there right now. Doesn’t mean we can’t be.”

Campbell stressed that the only solution is improvement, starting immediately.

Crucial Matchups Ahead for Detroit

The Lions’ playoff hopes now hinge on a difficult closing stretch. Detroit must defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers next Sunday at Ford Field before traveling to face the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas weekend. If they can survive those tests, a potential win-and-in Week 18 matchup against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field could decide their fate.

Missed Opportunities Loom Large

Statistically, the Lions remain competitive. Their point differential is better than five current NFL division leaders. However, Detroit has dropped four of its five one-score games this season—a glaring issue that could ultimately keep them out of the postseason.

If the Lions fall short of the playoffs, missed chances, close losses, and failure to rise in big moments will define a season filled with regret.