The prospect of a Lions vs. Rams playoff matchup is gaining traction among fans, even though Detroit secured a playoff spot while the Rams are still working towards clinching one.
With the Lions seizing their first division title in 30 years during Week 16, the playoffs will return to Ford Field after nearly two decades. This achievement sets the stage for a spirited playoff environment in front of a passionate home crowd.
One intriguing narrative brewing within a potential Lions-Rams face-off revolves around the two quarterbacks at the center of a pivotal trade three years ago. Matthew Stafford, after spending a dozen seasons in Detroit, joined the Rams and claimed a Super Bowl victory. Conversely, Jared Goff, initially drafted by the Rams, guided them to a Super Bowl before being part of the deal for Stafford. Since the trade, Goff has showcased his mettle and defeating the Rams in the playoffs would serve as a significant personal triumph.
However, securing a Lions-Rams postseason showdown isn’t a certainty yet. As it stands, the Lions are the NFC’s No. 3 seed, while the Rams hold the No. 6 seed, potentially setting up a wild-card round clash between the two teams. Yet, there’s room for standings to shift in the last two weeks of the season. The Lions could aim higher than third place, eyeing the possibility of snagging the No. 2 or even the No. 1 seed by overtaking the 49ers and Eagles in the standings.
Meanwhile, the Rams’ playoff fate remains uncertain. While they can’t leap to the No. 5 seed without specific outcomes for other teams, their Week 18 game against the 49ers will significantly influence their final seeding.
In essence, a Lions-Rams playoff clash remains a possibility but is contingent on several outcomes in the remaining weeks of the regular season. The Lions face the Cowboys in a crucial match, while the Rams aim to secure a playoff berth and set the stage for a potentially compelling postseason face-off.
