Despite having one of the easiest schedules in the league, the Detroit Lions are set for four primetime games in 2026, in addition to their traditional Thanksgiving Day game and the International game against the Patriots in Week 10. The Lions will be one of the most popular storylines in the NFL this season as they look to bounce back from a disappointing season.
There will be a couple of games before the final stretch of the season that will determine the Lions' fate. Let's take a look at the three games Lions fans should be the most excited for.
Week 2: September 17 @ Buffalo Bills
This is arguably the most difficult game of the season for the Lions. The Thursday Night Football matchup in the first-ever game in the new Bills stadium will pose a big challenge for Detroit. Add the fact that the Lions have lost five straight against Buffalo and haven't won since 2006, and there is every reason to believe that Buffalo will be the heavy favorite ahead of the game.
That is why the Lions will have a great chance to set the tone for the season. The Bills' offense should cause all sorts of problems for the Lions' defense once again, and this could be a shootout. But if Detroit wants to send a message to the rest of the league, winning in Buffalo would be the best way to do so.
Week 7: October 25 vs. Green Bay Packers
The Lions were 0-2 against the Packers last season, which was probably a big reason for missing the playoffs. Dan Campbell & Co. will be extra motivated for that reason alone. Fortunately, the Lions will also have their bye week before this clash, giving them additional rest.
In the first divisional matchup of the season, the Lions have to set the tone early. Coming out flat like they have done a few times following the bye week in the Campbell era would send the wrong message to the NFC North.
Week 11: November 22 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Picking Week 10's clash against the Patriots in Munich or Week 12's Thanksgiving Day game against the Bears would have been too obvious. The real challenge worth keeping an eye out for the Lions will be the Buccaneers matchup in between.
The Week 10-12 stretch will go a long way in determining Detroit's place in the league hierarchy. Coming back from Germany and facing a solid team in the Bucs is not ideal, especially when you will face Chicago only four days after that.
But the Lions have had Tampa Bay's number over the last few years. If they can defeat them again, it would show that they mean business heading into the final month and a half of the season.
More Detroit Lions news and rumors:
Add us as a preferred source on Google