Detroit Lions 2025 Season Predictions: Game-by-Game Breakdown Following NFL Schedule Announcement
The Detroit Lions are set to embark on a vengeful campaign in 2025, after a disappointing playoff exit last season. Despite a historic 15-win campaign and a second consecutive NFC North title, the Lions succumbed to the plucky Commanders in the postseason.
Injuries, particularly on defense, were a significant issue for Detroit in 2024. Aidan Hutchinson's injury was the most concerning, while the team's defense often resembled a MASH unit by the end of the regular season.
But there's reason for optimism in 2025. Most of the Lions' star injured players are expected to return, and the addition of several talented rookies in the 2025 NFL Draft could provide a much-needed boost.
However, the Lions face challenges. The departure of both coordinators to head coaching jobs this offseason will test the team's ability to adapt. In this article, we'll take a closer look at their 2025 schedule, predicting the outcome of each matchup.
Week 1: at Green Bay Packers
The Lions no longer fear Lambeau Field. They haven't lost a game there since 2021, and the packaging has changed since then. There's reason for Detroit to believe they can secure a win here, but the Packers still pose a formidable challenge. Though I can't shake the feeling that the Lions will split their games with Green Bay this season, I'll predict a loss for Week 1. LOSS
Week 2: vs. Chicago Bears
The Bears have become a more dangerous team, with Caleb Williams gaining more experience and Chicago welcoming Ben Johnson as their new head coach. The Bears' improved offensive line and potent offense could prove challenging for the Lions. However, Detroit should have the edge playing at home. WIN
Week 3: at Baltimore Ravens (MNF)
The Ravens are another tough test for the Lions. Detroit may come into this game with a chip on their shoulders, seeking revenge for a embarrassing 2023 defeat. While Derrick Henry may not be as dangerous against the Lions' stout run defense, Lamar Jackson remains a wild card. I see the Lions losing this game unless they can find a way to shut down Jackson. LOSS
Week 4: vs. Cleveland Browns
The Browns are expected to struggle this season, and it's difficult to imagine them pulling off an upset here. The Lions are well aware of their identity, and they won't shy away from asserting it against a subpar Browns team. WIN
Week 5: at Cincinnati Bengals
This game looks poised to be a shootout. The Bengals have a poor defense, especially since Sam Hubbard's retirement and the uncertainty surrounding Trey Hendrickson. The Lions' powerful and well-rounded offense should be able to outscore Cincinnati. The Lions might find it more challenging to shut down the Bengals' offense, but I'm optimistic about a high-scoring Lions win. WIN
Week 6: at Kansas City Chiefs (SNF)
Playing in Arrowhead after a victory in 2023, the Lions would be confident. Mahomes remains a constant threat, but the Lions hope to play a ball-control game that keeps Kansas City off the field. WIN
Week 7: vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (MNF)
The Lions and Buccaneers have developed a nice rivalry over the past few seasons. Detroit played sloppy against the Buccaneers in 2024, barely losing a close game. I see the Lions coming in motivated for this rematch and taking an early lead. Tampa may force a close game, but the Lions win by two scores. WIN
Week 8: BYE WEEK
Week 9: vs. Minnesota Vikings
Minnesota was the Lions' toughest challenge in 2024, but things may change in 2025. QB JJ McCarthy remains a question mark for the Vikings, and their roster is largely the same or worse compared to last season. The Lions get a win here. WIN
Week 10: at Washington Commanders
The Lions have revenge on their minds. Very little needs to change from their last matchup for Detroit to win. The Lions should be healthy on defense, and they need to avoid turnovers to come out on top. WIN
Week 11: at Philadelphia Eagles (SNF)
The Eagles remain a fearsome opponent for Detroit, boasting both offensive and defensive prowess. The reigning Super Bowl champions are poised for another deep playoff run in 2025. This game serves as a heat check for the Lions, providing valuable lessons for a potential postseason rematch. The Lions lose, but they learn from this defeat. LOSS
Week 12: vs. New York Giants
The Giants suddenly have a much-improved defense, thanks to the addition of Abdul Carter to their front seven. I can see a scenario where Eli Manning rattles Jared Goff, forcing a few mistakes. Regardless, Detroit should win this game comfortably at home. WIN
Week 13: vs. Green Bay Packers (Thanksgiving)
Green Bay leads the all-time series against Detroit, but the Lions have been much more successful under Dan Campbell. I feel the Packers were the least improved team in the NFC North this offseason. The Lions win this game at Ford Field. WIN
Week 14: vs. Dallas Cowboys (TNF)
Dallas may win more than seven games in 2025 and present a stiffer challenge compared to last season. Still, Detroit has a clear edge in this matchup, especially at home. Fans should expect a close game rather than a blowout. WIN
Week 15: at Los Angeles Rams
Detroit travels to SoFi Stadium, where LA will be formidable as ever. However, the Lions are well-suited to win in cold weather. The Lions' powerful rushing attack and solid offensive line should help secure a victory. WIN
Week 16: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers have talent but lack a competent quarterback. Detroit should be able to run up the score and force Pittsburgh to play an unfamiliar style of football. WIN
Week 17: at Minnesota Vikings (Christmas)
With playoff implications at stake, the Lions should be able to secure another win against the Vikings. This should be a close game, but the Lions should emerge victorious. WIN
Week 18: at Chicago Bears (TBD)
This could potentially be a playoff elimination game for both teams. The Lions have struggled against the Bears at Soldier Field in the past, but their ball-control offensive approach and stout run defense should help secure a narrow win. LOSS
Throughout the season, the Lions' success hinges on their defense staying healthy and Jared Goff avoiding costly mistakes. With a mixture of new talent and familiar faces, the Lions will look to build on their 2024 success and prove their revenge tour wasn't a pipe dream.
- After a disappointing playoff exit last season, the Detroit Lions are hoping to excuse themselves from the rumors of underachievement and bounce back in the 2025 NFL season, with a vengeful campaign.
- The sports community is buzzing with speculation about the scores of the Lions' 2025 games, particularly their postseason performance, given their historic 15-win campaign and second consecutive NFC North title in 2024.
- In an effort to strengthen their defense, which was a cause for concern in 2024 due to injuries, the Lions are keeping a close eye on the draft, hoping to find promising talent to fill in the gaps and elevate their performance in American football.
- With a demanding schedule ahead, the Lions aim to secure their spot in the playoffs and achieve a deep run in the elimination rounds, finally silencing the critics and etching their names among the top teams in the NFL.
