Here Are the Detroit Lions’ Playoff-Cinching Scenarios for Week 16
It’s getting hot in the NFL. It seems like every game has major playoff ramifications, and that makes this time of year oh-so exciting for NFL fans. Now that the Eagles are 10-4, the same record as the Detroit Lions, and things are getting really interesting in the NFC. As it turns out, the Detroit Lions could make the playoffs before they even play on Sunday. I’m getting my snacks ready for some football watching, and you should, too. Here are the Detroit Lions’ playoff-cinching scenarios, as well as division-winning options, heading into Week 16.
The Detroit Lions are coming up on what would be their first playoff berth since 2016. They could clinch a playoff spot this Thursday (Dec. 21). This week’s “Thursday Night Football” game pits the Los Angeles Rams against the New Orleans Saints. Believe it or not, both teams are 7-7 right now, and both teams are fighting for a spot in the wild card playoffs.
Detroit Lions’ Playoff-Cinching Scenarios
It’s as easy as this: Detroit will snag a playoff spot if New Orleans beats Los Angeles on Thursday, or if it’s a tie. So, if that’s what you want to see happen, you should be rooting against Matthew Stafford. Some Detroiters will welcome rooting against the Lions’ former quarterback, but some won’t. I’ll be rooting for the Saints, for sure. Sorry, Mattie.
Regardless, if the Rams pull off a win, the Lions will also clinch a playoff spot if the Seattle Seahawks lose to the Tennessee Titans on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24) or tie. That game is at 1 p.m. EST, the same time as the Detroit Lions take on the Minnesota Vikings on the road. If the Lions win over the Vikings or tie, not only will they get a playoff spot, but they’ll also be the NFC North champions for the first time since 1993. A Vikings win could also move Detroit closer to a No. 2 seed in the NFC. So, that’s how the Detroit Lions could make the playoffs on Thursday or Sunday. The Browns, Chiefs and Dolphins could also join them in the playoffs this weekend. Reach out to me with your thoughts on socials here, find the NFL Week 16 schedule here and listen to my NFL podcast here.
5 Best Personalities in the NFL Right Now
Patrick Mahomes
Patrick Mahomes, of course, is the star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs. He’s considered the best quarterback of his era and possibly the next Tom Brady. But, aside from his skills, he also has a big personality. He has more than 6 million Instagram followers, and he posts a bunch of stuff up there, from football material to family photos.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JANUARY 07: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs off the field after the first half against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on January 07, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
Travis Kelce
Travis Kelce, the celebrated tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, is pretty much the most famous guy in football this season. Yes, it’s because of his relationship with Taylor Swift. I hate to make that a reason to have him named one of the best personalities in the NFL, but heck, even without the Taylor factor, Kelce has a huge personality that people love.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 01: Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on prior to the game New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on October 01, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
Dan Campbell
All eyes are on Dan Campbell this season, as the Lions all pulling off some incredible things. That’s not common for the Detroit Lions, either. But, Campbell has some of the wackiest ideas and quotes, and that makes him loveable. Remember that time he wanted a pet Lion at practices? I love this dude.
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – DECEMBER 11: Head coach Dan Campbell of the Detroit Lions during a game against the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field on December 11, 2022 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Bill Belichick
Bill Belichick needs no introduction, but we’ll introduce him anyway. He’s the head coach and general manager of the New England Patriots. He’s had some rough years as of late, but nothing can take away his glimmering record. Belichick just tells it like it is. He’s incredible with strategies, and that really stands out with his coaching.
GLENDALE, AZ – FEBRUARY 01: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots stands on the field during the pregame warm up prior to playing in Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 1, 2015 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Jalen Hurts
Jalen Hurts, the star quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles, is something of a hero on the field. But, off the field, he’s known for his deep, insightful comments that show he has wisdom beyond his years. He’s a major contender and personality.
GLENDALE, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 12: Jalen Hurts #1 of the Philadelphia Eagles warms up before playing against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium on February 12, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
