A win. They're in.
The Detroit Lions are in the playoffs. What will happen once the playoffs begin will have much to do with what happens today in Green Bay. Playing for virtually nothing, the Packers are expected to rest many of their starterss in preparation for the playoffs. Regardless, it would be difficult to believe that whomever takes the field for the Packers, won't be playing to win.
It's hard to argue against history, and what history tells us is that the Lions haven't won in Green Bay in 20 years. Every team wants to head into the playoffs on a positive note and the Packers are no different. They proved at the beginning of the season that they can take extended time off and still be a proficient team. While they don't want to give momentum to a team that they could possibly be playing in two weeks, they also don't want to head into their bye week nursing any unnecessary injuries.
That matchup is a very realistic scenario and from a psychological standpoint, it would be better for the Lions to break the losing streak today rather than later. However, there's much that needs to happen in order to validate taking that discussion any further.
The Lions have improved much each of the last three weeks. Unfortunately, they haven't gotten any healthier. Louis Delmas will be out, you better believe Calvin Johnson is banged up and the defensive front is hurting all across the line and back again. Playing against the Packers' second-team or not, the Lions will need to play four solid quarters if they want to end their Lambeau losing streak and more importantly, clinch the coveted 5th playoff seed.
Matt Flynn is a more than capable backup, meaning all of the same matchups apply the same as they did on Thanksgiving. The Packers are deep and they're playing at home. If the Lions aren't ready, the ferocity in which the Packers start the game may surprise them.
If the last 2 weeks are any indication, then the Lions know what they're up against, what it takes to succeed and what it will all mean.
Prediction: Lions 24 Packers 17
Players to watch: Brandon Saine, Joique Bell
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