Week 17 NFL Power Rankings: The Lions’ Position Following a Resounding Victory Over the Bears
As the NFL enters its Week 17, playoff aspirations, seeding, and positioning are all on the line. Teams are fighting not only to secure a spot in the postseason but also to gain the momentum needed to make a deep playoff run. In the midst of all the action, one team that has captured the attention of many is the Detroit Lions. After a dominant victory over the Chicago Bears in Week 16, the Lions have asserted themselves as one of the more intriguing teams in the league as they fight for a playoff berth.
In this week’s NFL power rankings, we take a look at where the Lions sit following their emphatic win, analyzing their current position, playoff hopes, and how they stack up against the rest of the league’s elite teams.
A Resounding Victory Over the Bears
The Detroit Lions put on a clinic in their Week 16 matchup against the Chicago Bears, winning 41-10 in a statement game that demonstrated their potential as a playoff contender. The victory was dominant in every facet of the game — offensively, defensively, and in special teams.
Offensively, Jared Goff looked comfortable and sharp, throwing for over 300 yards and multiple touchdowns. He connected with his playmakers, especially Amon-Ra St. Brown, who has become a true star at the wide receiver position. The Lions’ offensive line provided Goff with excellent protection, and the running game, led by David Montgomery, added balance and kept the Bears’ defense guessing. The Lions’ offense was firing on all cylinders, a great sign heading into the final weeks of the regular season.
Defensively, the Lions showcased significant improvement in a unit that has often been criticized for its inconsistency. They were able to limit Justin Fields and the Bears’ offense to just 10 points, forcing key turnovers and making plays in crucial moments. Defensive playmakers like Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston were disruptive all afternoon, applying constant pressure on Fields and limiting the Bears’ ability to sustain drives.
With the win, the Lions improved to 11-4, solidifying their place as one of the top teams in the NFC. This performance, along with their overall consistency throughout the season, earned them a significant boost in the power rankings.
The Lions’ Position in the Power Rankings
The Detroit Lions’ power ranking heading into Week 17 sees them firmly entrenched in the top ten. The Lions currently sit at #6 in our rankings, a reflection of their impressive season and their potential to challenge for a playoff spot and beyond.
Here’s a breakdown of where the Lions stand relative to the other teams:
- Philadelphia Eagles (13-2) The Eagles remain at the top of the power rankings heading into Week 17. Despite some recent struggles, they continue to dominate both sides of the ball. Their balanced offense, featuring MVP candidate Jalen Hurts, and a top-tier defense makes them the team to beat in the NFC.
- Kansas City Chiefs (12-3) The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, are another team that has maintained their dominance throughout the season. While their defense has been a work in progress, the offensive firepower they possess puts them in the conversation as one of the favorites for the Super Bowl.
- San Francisco 49ers (11-4) The 49ers are red-hot as they continue to impress under coach Kyle Shanahan. With the defense playing at an elite level and Brock Purdy stepping in seamlessly at quarterback, the 49ers are a dangerous team heading into the postseason.
- Dallas Cowboys (11-4) The Cowboys, led by Dak Prescott and Micah Parsons, remain one of the most complete teams in the NFL. While there have been questions surrounding their ability to perform in clutch moments, they remain a formidable opponent.
- Buffalo Bills (11-4) The Bills have been up and down this season but still boast one of the most potent offenses in the league, thanks to Josh Allen’s dual-threat ability. With their defense beginning to round into form, they are a team that could make a run deep into the playoffs.
- Detroit Lions (11-4) After a dominant win over the Bears, the Lions’ ranking reflects their position as an NFC powerhouse. The Lions are one of the hottest teams in the NFL right now, having won six straight games, and their offense looks incredibly potent, while their defense is steadily improving. Jared Goff’s leadership and Amon-Ra St. Brown’s emergence as a top-tier receiver have made the Lions one of the most dangerous teams in the NFC. They may not have the same household names as some other teams in the power rankings, but the Lions’ play on both sides of the ball has made them a serious contender.
- Cincinnati Bengals (11-4) The Bengals, led by quarterback Joe Burrow, continue to show why they are among the elite teams in the AFC. Their balanced offense and stingy defense have made them a tough opponent for anyone.
- Minnesota Vikings (11-4) The Vikings have been a bit of a surprise this season, largely thanks to the leadership of quarterback Kirk Cousins and the explosive playmaking of Justin Jefferson. However, their defense remains a work in progress.
- Jacksonville Jaguars (9-6) The Jaguars have been a surprise this season, and Trevor Lawrence’s growth as a quarterback has been a key factor in their success. They are a team on the rise in the AFC.
- Baltimore Ravens (10-5) The Ravens have remained competitive all season long, thanks in large part to their top-tier defense and the playmaking ability of quarterback Lamar Jackson. However, the health of Jackson remains a critical factor heading into the postseason.
Detroit Lions’ Playoff Hopes
With the victory over Chicago, the Lions are now in prime position to not only make the playoffs but to potentially make a deep run. As of Week 17, the Lions hold a strong Wild Card spot in the NFC, with a chance to leapfrog teams like the Dallas Cowboys for a higher seed.
Their remaining schedule includes matchups with teams that are still fighting for playoff positioning, which means every game is crucial. A win in these final weeks would help the Lions solidify their playoff spot and improve their seeding, which could prove essential as they look to avoid facing the top teams early in the postseason.
The Lions’ chances are enhanced by the emergence of a complete offensive and defensive unit. With Goff playing at a high level and their defense improving by the week, Detroit looks like a legitimate threat to teams like the Eagles and 49ers, who sit at the top of the NFC standings. Furthermore, the coaching staff under Dan Campbell has been one of the most encouraging stories of the season. His ability to lead and motivate the team has created a culture in Detroit that is confident and capable of competing with the best in the league.
The Road Ahead for the Lions
Looking ahead, the Lions’ success will be dependent on several key factors. First and foremost, they must continue to get strong play from quarterback Jared Goff. His decision-making, poise, and ability to distribute the football to his playmakers will be critical. Goff has proven that he can perform at a high level in the postseason, having led the Los Angeles Rams to a Super Bowl appearance just a few seasons ago.
Additionally, the Lions will need their defense to continue to evolve. While they were dominant against the Bears, they must prove that they can replicate that performance against more potent offenses. The presence of young stars like Hutchinson on the defensive line gives hope that Detroit can continue to apply pressure on quarterbacks and create game-changing turnovers.
Finally, the Lions’ special teams unit, which has been solid throughout the season, could play an important role as the playoffs draw near. A key special teams play, such as a blocked punt or a long return, could be the difference in tight playoff games.
