The Detroit Lions have experienced a dip in their standing across various Week 12 NFL power rankings after a disappointing performance against the Philadelphia Eagles. Following this game, questions are arising regarding the Lions” ability to make a significant playoff run, especially considering the inconsistent play from their offensive line.
According to Sports Illustrated, the Lions are now ranked 8th, down from 5th place. Notably, a statistic emerged highlighting the struggles of quarterbacks against the Eagles” defense; this game marked the first occasion a quarterback completed 70% or more of their passes but ended with a completion rate below 40%—a clear indication of the Eagles” defensive prowess.
ESPN also placed the Lions at 8th, down from 6th. Following a Week 9 defeat to the Vikings, offensive coordinator John Morton was stripped of his playcalling responsibilities. With the Lions leading the league in scoring last season under former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, Morton faces pressure to secure his position. He expressed his full support for Dan Campbell“s decisions and is prepared to reclaim play-calling duties if necessary, although the current struggles could jeopardize his future.
In the The Athletic rankings, the Lions also sit at 8th, previously 5th. Campbell”s aggressive play-calling style was evident as he opted to go for it on fourth down five times during the Eagles game, yet the team failed to convert any of those attempts. Historically, only one other team has failed to convert on five or more fourth downs in a game during this century: the Lions, when they faced the Patriots in 2022.
CBS Sports ranked the Lions 10th, down from 7th, emphasizing that the offense did not perform well enough in the loss to the Eagles. With a current record of 6-4, the Lions need to find their rhythm quickly. The Ringer echoed this sentiment, ranking the team at 7th, previously 4th, and highlighting the frustration of Lions fans. While the defense managed to contain the Eagles” offense on third downs, the offense”s inability to capitalize on opportunities ultimately cost the Lions the game. Jared Goff“s performance was particularly concerning, as he appeared rattled and less accurate than in previous seasons.
USA Today placed the Lions at 10th, down from 9th, noting their alternating wins and losses over the last six games, which has left them outside the NFC playoff picture. They will need to take advantage of their upcoming home games at Ford Field, as their next road game is not until December 14.
Bleacher Report ranked the Lions 8th, previously 6th, pointing out that Campbell may want to reconsider his approach to play-calling after the loss. The offensive line”s health and effectiveness were highlighted as significant issues; if these problems persist, they could hinder any playoff aspirations. The Lions have lost three of their last five games and must address these challenges to have a chance at postseason success.
Lastly, Yahoo! Sports ranked the Lions at 7th, previously 6th. The loss against the Eagles has reignited discussions regarding Goff”s struggles in adverse weather conditions, raising doubts about the team”s chances for home-field advantage in the playoffs.
