The Detroit Lions are on their way to the postseason, marking a historic moment as they prepare to host a Wild Card matchup at Ford Field for the first time in the team’s history.
From a statistical standpoint, they are highly likely to secure the NFC’s three seed, setting the stage for a potential face-off with either the Los Angeles Rams or the Green Bay Packers in the opening round. However, the NFL is known for its unpredictability, and unexpected events can transpire in Week 18.
There are currently five different teams that the Lions could potentially encounter in the Wild Card round of the 2024 playoffs. Let’s explore each conceivable scenario and examine the potential opponents for the Detroit Lions.
To begin, we’ll address the less probable scenario where the Lions secure the NFC’s two seed. [Editor’s note: Tie scenarios were not included, except for one, as it’s the sole circumstance where the Lions would be matched against the Buccaneers.]
How the Lions can earn the NFC 2 seed
Detroit needs all three of these outcomes to happen.
- Lions beat Vikings AND
- Commanders beat Cowboys AND
- Giants beat Eagles
If this happens, the Lions can face FIVE different opponents. Here are all of those scenarios:
Opponent 1: Rams
- Lions earn NFC 2 seed
- 49ers beat Rams
- Packers beat Bears
Opponent 2: Packers
- Lions earn NFC 2 seed
- Rams beat 49ers
- Packers beat Bears
