Detroit Lions elevate playoff aspirations with stunning victory over Cowboys
The Detroit Lions bolstered their postseason prospects by defeating the Dallas Cowboys in a pivotal Week 14 matchup. This victory significantly enhances the Lions’ chances, now standing at 45 percent for securing one of the seven coveted spots in the NFC playoffs this season.
Path to the playoffs
Under the guidance of head coach Dan Campbell, the Lions face a crucial stretch as they aim to capitalize on their recent success. If they can maintain their momentum and finish the final four games with a 3-1 record, their playoff odds soar dramatically. A single loss to the Rams would bring their playoff chances to an impressive 95 percent. Meanwhile, a defeat against the Steelers would push those odds to 98 percent. In scenarios where the Lions only lose to the Vikings or the Bears, their chances remain strong at 97 percent and 82 percent, respectively.
Conversely, a less favorable outcome of 2-2 in their remaining games would see their playoff odds take a significant hit. Should they stumble against both the Steelers and Vikings, their chances would drop to 43 percent. Losing to the Rams and Vikings would reduce their odds to 41 percent, while setbacks against the Rams and Steelers would see their chances at 40 percent. If the Lions were to lose to the Steelers and Bears, their playoff hopes would plummet to 19 percent, and a loss against both the Rams and Bears would further diminish their chances to 16 percent. The bleakest scenario, losing to the Vikings and Bears, would leave them with just a 14 percent chance of making the playoffs.
Respect from opponents
Following the game, Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer and quarterback Dak Prescott both acknowledged the Lions’ impressive performance. Schottenheimer highlighted the speed and explosiveness of the Lions’ offense, stating, “Yeah, they’re fast. We’ve got guys that can run, too. I felt like we didn’t tackle great. When they got in the perimeter a bit, I thought they hurt us. We have to look at that. It’s an explosive, explosive football team.” He commended Lions quarterback Jared Goff for his strong showing and noted the impact of key plays, including significant runs by running back David Montgomery and a big reception by wide receiver Jameson Williams.
Prescott echoed these sentiments, recognizing the self-inflicted errors that plagued the Cowboys throughout the game. “I respect Detroit. I respect Dan (Campbell), the way that his guys, I mean, this team, plays. It’s a great battle, honestly, it always is,” he said. He lamented the turnovers that hindered their performance, adding, “The majority of the games that we have lost in particular, had turnovers and haven’t done what we’ve done on offense, it’s been self-inflicted.” He spoke highly of the Cowboys’ kicker, who put them in scoring position, emphasizing, “You can’t turn over the ball when you’ve got such a safe haven and a kicker like that.”
Looking ahead
With four games left on the schedule, the Lions have the opportunity to solidify their playoff contention. Their ability to navigate this crucial juncture will be pivotal in determining whether they can continue their ascent towards postseason glory.
