Zielinski: Lions will flex their muscles against Packers

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Green Bay Packers will face the Detroit Lions in a crucial NFC North matchup on Thursday night. With a three-game win streak, the Packers have a chance to stay in the division race, but a loss would force them to shift focus to the wildcard.

Jordan Love has been on a hot streak, posting a passer rating of 100.0 in each of the last three games, but Detroit’s defense will present a tough challenge. The Packers could also capitalize on the Lions’ defensive injuries, especially in the front seven, giving Green Bay an opportunity to establish a strong ground game with Josh Jacobs.

Containing Detroit’s explosive skill players of Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Sam LaPorta, and Jameson Williams will be key for the Packers’ defense. Additionally, it will be critical to avoid self-inflicted mistakes like turnovers and penalties, which cost them in the previous meeting.

A win in Detroit would provide a major boost to the Packers’ playoff hopes and prove their contender status. I’m just not sure they have what it takes to overcome the NFC’s top team.

Prediction: Lions 27, Packers 24