Detroit Lions Soar in Power Rankings After Stunning Cowboys
The Detroit Lions have made a significant leap in the NFL power rankings following their impressive victory over the Dallas Cowboys at Ford Field on Thursday Night Football. This win not only showcased the Lions’ offensive prowess but also solidified their position as a team to watch as the postseason approaches.
Power Rankings Overview
Sports Illustrated
Power ranking: 8th
Last ranking: 9th
The Lions’ triumph has prompted discussions about the NFC South potentially yielding a division champion with a more favorable path to the Super Bowl than many teams from the NFC North. This has revived interest in the Lions’ earlier proposal to grant home field advantage solely to the division winner with the best record in each conference.
ESPN
Power ranking: 11th
Last ranking: 11th
Since Coach Dan Campbell took over playcalling duties from first-year offensive coordinator John Morton in Week 10, the Lions’ offensive consistency has come into question. Despite this, they lead the league with an impressive average of 30.3 points per game. Notably, Detroit has surpassed the 40-point threshold three times this season, tying for the most in the league and marking 12 such games since the start of 2023.
The Athletic
Power ranking: 8th
Last ranking: 10th
After defeating the Cowboys, the Lions’ playoff chances have increased to 39 percent. However, they still face the possibility of competing away from home if they qualify, which could mean challenging matchups against teams like Philadelphia, Chicago, Green Bay, or Seattle. Jared Goff’s performance outdoors remains a concern, with a career completion percentage of just 57.7 when temperatures dip below 50 degrees.
CBS Sports
Power ranking: 17th
Last ranking: 15th
The Lions’ victory over the Cowboys may have salvaged their season, but they now confront a tough road game against the Rams. The loss of safety Brian Branch to a torn Achilles poses a significant setback for the team’s defense.
Sporting News
Power ranking: 12th
Last ranking: 13th
The Lions’ offense returned to form with Jahmyr Gibbs leading the charge against the Cowboys. As they prepare for Goff’s return to face his former team, the Rams, maintaining this high level of performance will be crucial.
USA Today
Power ranking: 8th
Last ranking: 12th
The depth of talent amassed by Coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes is impressive, although injuries have sidelined several key players. Fortunately, Jahmyr Gibbs is still in action, establishing himself as one of the league’s top running backs and keeping the Lions’ offensive potential alive.
Bleacher Report
Power ranking: 9th
Last ranking: 9th
The Lions continue to demonstrate resilience, having won 15 consecutive games following a loss. Despite navigating the challenges posed by two new coordinators this season, they remain a playoff-caliber team capable of overwhelming defenses with their scoring ability. However, the recent injury to Pro Bowl safety Brian Branch, who tore his Achilles, adds pressure on a secondary already missing All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph and second-year cornerback Terrion Arnold.
Fox Sports
Power ranking: 10th
Last ranking: 12th
While the Lions’ victory over the Cowboys has sparked optimism, caution is warranted. With tough upcoming matchups against the Rams, Steelers, and Bears in the final stretch of the season, the road ahead remains challenging.
As the Lions gear up for their next game, the combination of talent, resilience, and strategic adjustments will be tested as they strive to solidify their playoff positioning in a competitive NFC landscape.
