Week 16 of the NFL season arrives with playoff stakes growing heavier by the hour, and for the Detroit Lions, this matchup could define whether their postseason hopes stay alive or quietly slip away.
Detroit enters the week desperate for a response after another frustrating loss exposed lingering defensive issues. But the schedule may offer the perfect opportunity for a rebound, as the Lions host a Steelers team that has struggled to find consistency on offense, especially against physical fronts.
The key matchup lies in Detroit’s ability to control the trenches. When the Lions establish balance and keep pressure off Jared Goff, their offense becomes difficult to contain. Against a Steelers defense that can be aggressive but vulnerable to sustained drives, Detroit has a path to dictate tempo and stay in control.
Defensively, the Lions must tighten up late — something that has haunted them in recent weeks. If they can limit explosive plays and force Pittsburgh into long third downs, the momentum could swing Detroit’s way early.
Elsewhere in Week 16, the Packers are expected to continue their surge against the Bears, while the 49ers look well-positioned to handle the Colts behind their physical brand of football.
For Detroit, though, this isn’t just another pick on the board. It’s a moment to prove they can respond under pressure — and keep their playoff dream alive heading into the season’s final stretch.
NFL Week 16 Picks Against the Spread: Lions Make a Statement
