The Detroit Lions suffered a crushing defeat to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 17, as the Vikings completed the season sweep of the Lions and spoiled Christmas in the Motor City.
Detroit's offense committed six turnovers in Thursday's loss, five coming from quarterback Jared Goff. Though the Lions' defense kept the team in the game, they unraveled at the end, surrendering a 65-yard touchdown to Jordan Addison late in the fourth quarter, which sealed the deal for Minnesota.
Not only does the Lions' loss to the Vikings drop them to 8-8 and put them in last place in the NFC North, but it also buried their playoff hopes.
Can Lions still make the playoffs?
The Lions can no longer qualify for the postseason. Detroit has missed the playoffs for the first time since 2021.
Dan Campbell's squad has lost four of their last five games, which completely destroyed any hopes of them making the playoffs in a competitve NFC North.
The Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers will be representing the division in the postseason. Chicago clinched a playoff berth in Week 16, while Green Bay also punched its ticket due to Detroit's defeat to Minnesota.
The Lions will finish off their disappointing 2025 campaign with a road contest versus the Bears. Detroit will look to end the year on a high note and reload for the 2026 season.
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