Lions Cling to Playoff Hopes as Injuries and Inconsistency Loom Ahead of Pivotal Week 16 Clash with Steelers
With just three games left in the regular season, the Detroit Lions are walking a tightrope. At 8-6, they’re still in the playoff hunt, but the margin for error is razor-thin. After a wild 41-34 shootout loss to the Rams in Week 15, Detroit finds itself in a familiar spot: trying to balance explosive offensive production with a defense that can’t seem to hold the line when it matters most.
It’s been a rollercoaster ride in 2025 under Dan Campbell, with the Lions showing flashes of brilliance - especially on offense - but struggling to put together complete performances. The NFC North isn’t waiting around either. The Bears (10-4) and Packers (9-4) are surging, which puts even more pressure on Detroit to deliver down the stretch.
Offense Firing on All Cylinders
If there’s one reason Detroit is still in the mix, it’s the offense. This group has been electric, driven by a balanced attack that’s tough to stop when it’s clicking.
Running back Jahmyr Gibbs has emerged as one of the league’s most dangerous weapons, already piling up over 1,100 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. His burst, vision, and ability to hit the edge make him a nightmare for defenders.
David Montgomery has been the perfect complement - a physical, between-the-tackles runner who’s added more than 600 yards and eight scores of his own. Together, they’ve formed a one-two punch that’s helped Detroit control tempo and wear down opposing defenses.
Through the air, Jared Goff has been steady and efficient. He’s thrown for over 3,600 yards, keeping the offense on schedule and limiting mistakes.
His chemistry with Amon-Ra St. Brown has been the backbone of Detroit’s passing game.
St. Brown has eclipsed 1,100 receiving yards and found the end zone 11 times, continuing to prove he’s one of the most reliable targets in the league.
And let’s not overlook Jameson Williams. With nearly 1,000 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, he’s added a vertical threat that forces defenses to stay honest.
That trio - Gibbs, St. Brown, and Williams - gives Detroit the kind of firepower that can hang with anyone.
Defense Battling to Keep Up
But while the offense has been humming, the defense has struggled to match that level of consistency. Injuries have been a major factor.
The secondary, in particular, has been hit hard. Safety Kerby Joseph and rookie Terrion Arnold have both missed time, and cornerback Amik Robertson exited last week’s game with a hand injury.
His status for Week 16 is still up in the air.
That’s left Detroit vulnerable on the back end - not ideal heading into a matchup with a veteran quarterback who knows how to pick apart weakened secondaries.
Up front, there have been bright spots. Edge rusher Al-Quadin Muhammad earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors after a three-sack performance and has been a spark alongside Aidan Hutchinson. That duo has generated pressure, but the lack of depth and consistency elsewhere on the defense has made it tough to close games - as we saw in Los Angeles.
The injury bug hasn’t spared the offensive line either. Left tackle Taylor Decker missed Wednesday’s practice with a shoulder issue, and the Lions are still adjusting to life without center Frank Ragnow, who failed a physical in his attempt to return late in the season. His absence is more than just a personnel loss - it’s a hit to the leadership and communication up front.
Week 16: A Must-Win with Playoff Implications
Sunday’s matchup against the Steelers at Ford Field is more than just another game - it’s a potential turning point. Detroit needs a win to stay alive in the playoff race, and they’ll be leaning heavily on their ground game to get it done. Gibbs and Montgomery will be tasked with testing Pittsburgh’s run defense, which has had its ups and downs this season.
But protecting Goff will be just as critical. Even if T.J.
Watt is limited or sidelined, Pittsburgh’s front can still generate pressure. Detroit’s offensive line will need to hold up, especially with injuries forcing some reshuffling.
On the flip side, Detroit’s depleted secondary will have its hands full. Pittsburgh’s passing game, led by a savvy quarterback and a capable group of receivers, could exploit the Lions’ injury woes on the back end. If Detroit can’t generate pressure up front, it could be a long day for the defense.
What’s at Stake
A loss here doesn’t officially eliminate Detroit, but it would make the playoff path significantly tougher - especially with division rivals continuing to stack wins. A victory, on the other hand, keeps the Lions in the thick of the race and gives them a shot of momentum heading into the final two weeks.
At this point in the season, it’s about execution, health, and who wants it more. The Lions have the talent to make a run. Now they need to prove they can put it all together when it matters most.