This Week 14 matchup is a pivotal moment for the Green Bay Packers. While a loss to the Detroit Lions wouldn’t end their season, it would certainly be a setback. With a 9-3 record, the Packers are still one of the top NFC teams, and despite the potential drop to 9-4, they have winnable games left against teams like the Seattle Seahawks, New Orleans Saints, Minnesota Vikings, and Chicago Bears. A 12- or 13-win season remains a realistic goal.

However, the NFC North is now highly competitive, and even at 9-3, the Packers are chasing the 11-1 Lions and the 10-2 Minnesota Vikings. In the wider playoff race, teams like the Washington Commanders (8-5) and several 6-6 teams, such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Arizona Cardinals, and Los Angeles Rams, could heat up and make a playoff push.

Every remaining game is critical for the Packers, but this one against the Lions holds extra weight. A win would solidify Green Bay’s place among the NFC’s elite, while a lackluster performance could lead to doubts about whether their recent success is legitimate.

Here’s why the Packers will keep their momentum going and beat the Lions in Week 14:

Jordan Love Has Found His Groove

Quarterback Jordan Love has shown significant improvement. Although he hasn’t had a breakout performance this season, he’s been healthier since the Packers’ bye week and has been much more effective. His touchdown-to-interception ratio during the team’s three-game win streak is 5-to-1, his completion percentage has risen from 61.6% to 69.3%, and his passer rating has jumped from 88.5 to 116.6. With Love playing better, the Packers’ offense has been firing on all cylinders, averaging 29 points per game over the past three contests. Against a banged-up Detroit defense, they should be able to continue scoring.

Lions Are Dealing With Major Injuries

Health is always a key factor in NFL success, especially during the playoffs. Unfortunately for the Lions, they’ve been hit hard by injuries. Despite being one of the NFL’s best teams, Detroit is also one of the most banged-up. The Lions have placed key players like defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo, linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, wide receiver Kalif Raymond, and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. on injured reserve. Linebacker Alex Anzalone has a broken forearm, and cornerback Carlton Davis III, along with tackle Taylor Decker, is questionable for the game. To make matters worse, star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson has been out since October with a broken tibia/fibula. Coach Dan Campbell acknowledged the team’s injury woes, calling it “freak” luck, but said they have to find a way to overcome it.