If the Detroit Lions are going to reach the postseason, their path is becoming increasingly clear — and personal. The clearest opportunity left on the schedule includes one final shot at revenge against former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, a storyline layered with familiarity, frustration, and postseason stakes.
Johnson knows Detroit’s strengths as well as anyone. He understands the protection calls, the personnel tendencies, and the pressure points within the Lions’ system. That insider knowledge has already made life uncomfortable for Detroit in previous matchups, and it’s why this game carries weight far beyond the standings.
For the Lions, this isn’t just about emotion — it’s about control. A win here would stabilize their playoff positioning and remove a lingering narrative that Detroit struggles against teams that know them too well. A loss, however, would tighten the race and raise uncomfortable questions about adaptability and in-game adjustments.
Detroit’s margin for error is thin, but the opportunity is real. The coaching staff has emphasized execution over revenge talk, yet it’s impossible to ignore the subtext. This is a measuring-stick game — one that tests whether the Lions can evolve beyond their past tendencies and prove they’re more than a familiar system.
In a season defined by urgency, this matchup stands out. Beat Ben Johnson, and Detroit keeps its postseason hopes alive. Lose, and the road forward becomes much steeper.
One Game, One Grudge: Lions’ Playoff Hopes Circle Ben Johnson Showdown
