Since the start of the 2022 season, the Lions have enjoyed a solid amount of success against their divisional opponents, posting a 17-7 mark.\u00a0<\/p>\n
However, Campbell & Co. took a step back in 2025, going just 2-4 in the division and 9-8 overall. They were swept by both Green Bay and Minnesota, but managed to win both matchups against Chicago in Ben Johnson’s debut campaign as Bears head coach.<\/p>\n
To add insult to injury, the Lions were eliminated from playoff contention a season ago after losing to Minnesota, led at the time by undrafted rookie quarterback Max Brosmer, on Christmas Day.<\/p>\n
It was a dreadful showing from Detroit, with Jared Goff & Co.<\/a> committing six turnovers \u2013 yes, six turnovers for the first time since 2015 \u2013 and averaging a paltry 3.61 yards per play. It marked the Lions\u2019 sixth-worst offensive efficiency in a game since 2010 (and their very worst efficiency in a contest since 2020).<\/p>\n Altogether, the 2025 campaign was a disappointing one for the Lions, which missed out on the playoffs after capturing back-to-back division crowns in 2023 and 2024.\u00a0<\/p>\n Fast-forward to 2026, and it likely won’t be any easier for Detroit against its divisional rivals.<\/p>\n The Bears, which won the NFC North last year with an 11-5 record, and the Packers, which made the playoffs for a third consecutive season, should be as good as they were in 2025. Meanwhile, the Vikings, which acquired QB Kyler Murray in the offseason, are expected to take a step forward and compete for a playoff spot this upcoming season.<\/p>\n All three teams could also feasibly sweep the season series against the Lions.\u00a0<\/p>\n If Campbell & Co.<\/a> intend on making the playoffs in 2026, though, they definitely can not allow that to happen. They must return to their winning ways within the division, with a 4-2 record against their divisional foes being optimal.<\/p>\n It definitely adds a layer of intrigue and importance to the brutal four-game stretch<\/a> Detroit will endure to close out the campaign.<\/p>\n And there’s certainly a realistic shot it will be the most pivotal four weeks of the entire \u201826 season, determining whether Campbell’s squad secures a playoff spot.<\/p>\n
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