The Detroit Lions are heading into 2025 with a massive challenge ahead. After two straight playoff appearances and an unforgettable NFC Championship run in 2023, the Lions are no longer flying under the radar — they’re officially contenders with a target on their backs.
And the NFL isn’t making things easy. According to Warren Sharp of Sharp Football Analysis, Detroit faces the third-toughest strength of schedule in the league this year, second only to the New York Giants in the NFC. This ranking isn’t based on last season’s standings — it’s based on Vegas win totals, meaning this slate is no joke.
Here’s a quick look at who the Lions will face:
Divisional games: Bears, Packers, Vikings (home and away)
Home games: Cowboys, Giants, Browns, Steelers, Buccaneers
Road games: Commanders, Eagles, Bengals, Ravens, Chiefs, Rams
That’s nine playoff teams from 2024, including some of the NFL’s best — think Mahomes, Jackson, Hurts, and Burrow — plus brutal defenses like the Steelers and Ravens.
But there’s reason for optimism. Jared Goff is coming off another strong year, and even with offensive coordinator Ben Johnson gone, the Lions’ offense is stacked with Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, and Jameson Williams. On defense, they’ve added standout talent like Tyleik Williams and D.J. Reed, while Brian Branch has emerged as a Pro Bowler.
Head coach Dan Campbell has built a team with grit, and they’ll need it. This season isn’t just about surviving — it’s about proving they belong among the NFL’s elite. Whether they rise to the occasion or reveal cracks that need fixing, one thing’s for sure: Detroit’s road to a Super Bowl runs through some of the league’s toughest competition.
Lions Gear Up for Heavyweight 2025 Season With Toughest NFC Slate
