The Detroit Lions, boasting a record of 13-2, are gearing up for a crucial NFC Championship rematch against the San Francisco 49ers in Santa Clara, California. However, their focus may have shifted following the Minnesota Vikings' recent victory over the Green Bay Packers, which has significant implications for the Lions' playoff positioning. With the Vikings now at 14-2, the stakes have been raised for the upcoming Week 18 clash between the Lions and Vikings, where the NFC North title and the coveted No. 1 seed in the playoffs will be on the line.
This scenario renders the Lions' Week 17 matchup against the 49ers somewhat inconsequential in terms of playoff seeding. Regardless of the outcome against San Francisco, the Lions' fate will ultimately hinge on their performance in Week 18 against Minnesota. The winner of that game will secure the No. 1 seed, while the loser will settle for the No. 5 seed. Historically, no team with 14 wins has ever had to compete in the wild-card round of the NFL playoffs.
Complicating matters for the Lions is their injury situation, as they currently have 19 players on injured reserve, including key defensive players. This raises the question of whether head coach Dan Campbell should rest his starters against the 49ers to preserve them for the decisive matchup against the Vikings. Despite the team's injury woes, Campbell has a reputation for aggressive coaching strategies and may opt to field his best players against San Francisco. His previous decision to keep starters in the game last year against Minnesota suggests that he might follow a similar approach this time around.
