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Here’s how Detroit Lions can still make playoffs after loss to Steelers

Lions have to win final 2 games while Packers lose final 2 games

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - DECEMBER 21: Jahmyr Gibbs #0 of the Detroit Lions runs with the ball as Jack Sawyer #33 of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks to make a tackle during the first quarter at Ford Field on December 21, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) (Gregory Shamus, 2025 Getty Images)

DETROIT – The Detroit Lions can still make the playoffs after their loss to the Steelers, but it’s a long shot.

Detroit fell to 8-7 on the season and is on the brink of elimination with two weeks left in the season.

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Technically, they’re still alive for the No. 7 seed in the NFC. But there’s only one route into the postseason: The Lions have to win their final two games, and the Packers have to lose their final two games.

So here’s everything that has to happen:

  • Lions win at Vikings in Week 17.
  • Packers lose to Baltimore at home in Week 17.
  • Lions win at Bears in Week 18.
  • Packers lose at Vikings in Week 18.

Yeah, it’s not looking good.

The Lions can’t win the tiebreaker with the 49ers even if both teams finish 10-7, because the 49ers are 8-2 against the NFC, and the Lions can only get to 7-5. So it’s either the Packers or the Lions for that final spot.

For a team that came into 2025 with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations, the Lions are right on the brink of complete disaster.


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