Follow the Divisional Mold

How about these two teams? Both teams left their mark early in the regular season, but only the Lions were able to carry that through the postseason. The Packer secured a Wild Card with an 11-6 record, which was 3^rd best in their division. The Lions led the NFC North at 15-2, but were kicked out of the playoffs by the Commanders second round. Let’s see where both teams left off.

The Lions lost some coaches. They lost DC Aaron Glenn to the New York Jets, and OC Ben Johnson to the Bears. There is a system in place that works, but they have new play callers in DC Kelvin Sheppard and OC John Morton. Luckily, the Lions roster remained about the same. They get Aidan Hutchinson back, Jared Goff is still at the helm, Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery still run the backfield, and Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams will be back in full force. It was shocking to see the Lions lose in their first playoff game, considering the hype and season they had. Opening away against a playoff team and division rival, will get the juices flowing for Detroit. Dan Campbell is passionate about his team, and under his direction, they will find success. Just don’t go for every 4^th down, because it’s not necessary. I think the Lions start hot again, maybe not 15-2 hot, but they will be back in the playoffs.

As for the Packers, they also had a disappointing finish to last season. They played above average football for most of the year. While they did struggle on offense at times, finishing 5th in the league last season, their defense was there to lighten the load. They finished last season ranked 6^th in total defense. The key for Green Bay is building. Jordan Love is still young, they have a talented team, but I wouldn’t be trying to swing for the fences. Meaning, don’t go out there and expect to blow every team out by 20 and secure the first-round bye by week 7. But take each week in stride. Most likely, the packers find themselves back in the playoffs, the key is to not play themselves out of it. I like the Lions here, but if their defense has not improved from last year, give me the Pack. Aidan Hutchinson is back though.