ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith turned heads with his recent remarks, declaring that the Detroit Lions are currently the top team in the NFL through the first five weeks of the 2025 campaign.

The Lions advanced to a 4-1 record after pulling off a gritty road win over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday night. Following an opening-week defeat to the Green Bay Packers, Detroit has rebounded in dominant fashion with four straight victories, displaying both offensive explosiveness and strong team discipline.

“Since Week 1, it’s clear how explosive this offense is. They can hang 40 points with ease,” Smith said on First Take. “That backfield of Gibbs, Montgomery, and Williams — plus those receivers — they’re stacked. Dan Campbell has created a mindset of toughness and belief in that locker room. Right now, I honestly believe they’re the number one team in football.”

Smith’s take echoes what several fans and experts have observed throughout the past month — Detroit’s offense has been firing on all cylinders. The unit blends dynamic running from Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery with precise route-running from Amon-Ra St. Brown and steady leadership from quarterback Jared Goff. Supported by one of the league’s most dominant offensive lines, the Lions have become a nightmare to contain.

Despite last season’s tough playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, Detroit looks like a team that learned from that setback. Their recent outings reflect a squad that’s not only confident but also determined to finish what they started this year.

Looking ahead, the Lions will be tested with matchups against the Kansas City Chiefs on the road and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at home. If they continue this level of execution, Detroit could indeed validate Stephen A. Smith’s bold claim — that they are, without question, the best team in football right now.