The Detroit Lions have a chance to lock in a playoff spot as early as the conclusion of Week 13, a testament to their dominant start this season. With 10 wins in their first 11 games, Dan Campbell’s squad has established itself as a legitimate contender, not only for the NFC North crown but also for the coveted No. 1 seed in the conference.
This week, the Lions are gearing up for their traditional Thanksgiving Day game, facing off against the Chicago Bears at Ford Field. For Detroit to clinch a playoff berth, winning this matchup is non-negotiable. All scenarios hinge on the Lions defeating the Bears.
As noted by Sports Illustrated, “Detroit is 37-45-2 all-time on Turkey Day. A nine-game losing streak from 2004-12 and the current drought since 2016 has dragged down their overall record. The Dallas Cowboys, who have played the most Thanksgiving Day games other than the Lions, are 32-23-1 in their traditional home game which follows the Lions.”
Despite past struggles on Thanksgiving, the Lions have a real shot to secure their playoff spot with some help from other teams. Here’s how they can clinch this weekend:
1. A Lions win combined with losses or ties for San Francisco, Arizona, Seattle, and Tampa Bay.
2. A Lions win plus losses or ties for San Francisco, Arizona, and Tampa Bay, and a tie for Seattle.
3. A Lions win, along with losses or ties for San Francisco, Arizona, Washington, Atlanta, and a Seattle loss.
4. A Lions win and losses or ties for San Francisco, Arizona, and Washington, with Atlanta tying and Seattle losing.
5. A Lions win, plus losses or ties for San Francisco, Arizona, Tampa Bay, Washington, and Atlanta, with Seattle tying.
6. A Lions win paired with losses or ties for San Francisco, Arizona, and Washington, a Seattle tie, and an Atlanta tie.
Detroit’s remarkable start has made these scenarios possible, but first, they must focus on breaking their Thanksgiving drought. If they can pull it off, they’ll be a step closer to their postseason aspirations.