The Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers have been rekindling their rivalry recently, with Lions head coach Dan Campbell boasting a 6-4 record against the Packers since taking the helm in 2021. This competitive edge adds an exciting layer to the Lions' upcoming role as the "home" team in the NFL’s International Series in Munich, Germany, in 2026. While their opponent remains a mystery, speculation is swirling, with some betting it could be a divisional rival.
Potential Opponents for the Lions in Munich
The Lions' opponent for this international showdown could be any of the following teams:
- Chicago Bears
- Minnesota Vikings
- Green Bay Packers
- Buffalo Bills
- Miami Dolphins
- Atlanta Falcons
- Carolina Panthers
- Arizona Cardinals
While it’s not common for divisional matchups to be played overseas, the NFL has shown a willingness to make it happen, as seen in past games like the Cardinals vs. 49ers in Mexico City (2005) and the Panthers vs. Buccaneers in London (2019).
A Special Game for Amon-Ra St. Brown
For Lions’ wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, playing in Germany holds personal significance.
With his mother hailing from Germany, the opportunity to play there is a dream come true. St.
Brown expressed his excitement, saying, “If you told me as a kid that I’d be playing in Germany, I’d never believe you. It’d be a dream.”
His connection to the country through visits and football camps has fostered a strong bond with the fans, making this game particularly meaningful.
The NFL’s International Expansion
The NFL's push to expand its global reach is no secret, with more games being added to international locations each year. The official international series kicked off in 2007 when the Giants faced the Dolphins at Wembley Stadium in London. Since then, the series has grown, with games in Mexico City and London, and now, new territories are joining the lineup.
2026: A Landmark Year for International Games
The 2026 season is set to be a milestone in the NFL's international journey, featuring a record nine international games across four continents. This season introduces several firsts:
- Melbourne, Australia: The Melbourne Cricket Ground will host its first NFL game, with the Los Angeles Rams facing the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1.
- Paris, France: The Stade de France will welcome the New Orleans Saints for its inaugural NFL matchup.
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Following success in São Paulo, the series moves to Maracanã Stadium, with the Dallas Cowboys as hosts.
How International Games Are Chosen
The NFL ensures at least four international games each season, with each team playing a home game abroad every eight seasons. The introduction of a 17-game schedule in 2021 means AFC and NFC teams alternate seasons with nine home games.
The extra home game determines which teams host international matches, maintaining the balance of home games in the U.S. Teams can also volunteer to play abroad, continuing a tradition of global engagement.
The Lions' upcoming game in Munich is not just another fixture; it's a testament to the NFL's commitment to bringing American football to a global audience, with players like Amon-Ra St. Brown leading the charge in making these events memorable for fans worldwide.