Lions take on Bengals

DETROIT – A pair of 4-2 teams will try to take a big step toward postseason contention when the Cincinnati Bengals visit the Detroit Lions on Sunday. Both teams are on top of their respective divisions, but a total of four teams are a win away from either catching or moving past them should either one falter. Lions coach Jim Schwartz thinks it's too early to pay attention to such things, saying at his Wednesday news conference, "leave the power rankings, the standings, the statistics and everything else for everybody else."

If Schwartz wanted to look at statistics, there would be plenty for him to be happy about. Quarterback Matthew Stafford is coming off a four-touchdown performance in a 31-17 win at Cleveland, and the defense is tied for fourth in the NFL with 13 takeaways. Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton is also coming off a strong showing after throwing for 337 yards and three touchdowns in a 27-24 overtime win at Buffalo to be named AFC Offensive Player of the Week.