By Sunday 
It’s rare for the Detroit Lions to “win” on a weekend when they don’t even play — but this might just be one of those glorious times. While the team enjoys a much-needed bye week to rest and heal up before facing the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday night’s Packers vs. Steelers matchup could shape Detroit’s playoff picture in a massive way.
The Perfect Sunday (Almost)
Let’s recap: the Ravens beat the Bears, the Broncos toppled the Cowboys, the Dolphins handled the Falcons, and the Texans took down the 49ers. Add in the Vikings’ Thursday night loss, and it’s been one of the best Sundays the Lions could’ve imagined — without ever stepping on the field.
But there’s one last domino to fall.
The Game That Could Change Everything
The Green Bay Packers (4-1-1) entered the week as the NFC’s top seed. If they beat the Pittsburgh Steelers tonight, they’ll stay there. But if they lose? Things get really interesting.
A Packers loss would drop them to 4-2-1, sending them all the way down to the NFC’s seventh seed — while the Lions would leapfrog into the third seed and claim first place in the division with a half-game lead.
That’s right: Detroit could take control of the NFC North without even playing a snap.
Rodgers Reunion Takes Back Seat
Sure, everyone’s talking about Aaron Rodgers’ first game against the Packers — but for Lions fans, that’s just background noise. The real story is the playoff shuffle happening in real time.
So tonight, if you find yourself tuning in to Sunday Night Football, don’t just watch — root like you’re part of the Terrible Towel crew. Because a Steelers win could make this Lions bye week one to remember.