An easy schedule means nothing if Detroit can’t win the games that matter most. These three matchups could define the Lions’ 2026 season.
It’s no secret the Lions have one of the easier schedules in the NFL this season. After finishing last in the NFC North a year ago, Detroit is in a great position to make a run at reclaiming the division title. While the schedule features several favorable matchups, there are still a handful of games that could define the season. Here are the three biggest must-win games on the Lions’ schedule.
Week 7: Lions vs. Packers
Detroit’s first divisional game of the season may also be its biggest. Not only is it an NFC North showdown, but it could set the tone for the rest of the year.
The Lions were swept by Green Bay last season and nearly got shut out in the season opener. After that disappointment, Detroit needs to make a statement on its home field. By Week 7, the Packers are expected to have All-Pro pass rusher Micah Parsons back after he tore his ACL late last season. Their leading receiver, tight end Tucker Kraft, is also expected to be healthy after missing time with a torn ACL as well.
Dan Campbell owns a 6-4 record against Green Bay and has swept the Packers twice in the past three seasons. With the Bears facing a much tougher schedule, many expect the division race to come down to Detroit and Green Bay, something reflected by the betting odds.
Fortunately for the Lions, they’ll be coming off their bye week with extra time to prepare, while the Packers will be traveling after a Sunday Night Football matchup in Dallas. Everything lines up for Detroit to win this game, which is exactly why it’s one they can’t afford to lose.
Week 1: Lions vs. Saints
On paper, the Lions should handle the Saints. However, season openers can be unpredictable, making this one more important than it appears.
Detroit opened as a seven-point favorite, but New Orleans shouldn’t be overlooked. Second-year quarterback Tyler Shough looked like a legitimate starter over the final five games of last season, winning four of them. The Saints also improved their offense by adding Pro Bowl running back Travis Etienne and drafting wide receiver Jordan Tyson with the eighth overall pick. Combined with veterans Chris Olave and Alvin Kamara, New Orleans has a much more dangerous offense than many expect.
After the way last season ended, Detroit needs to start fast. An opening-day win would immediately build confidence, while a surprising loss could create unnecessary doubt and put pressure on the team early in the season.
Week 15: Lions at Vikings
Detroit has four true primetime games this season, and this Sunday Night Football matchup in Minnesota could be the most important of them all.
The Vikings swept the Lions last year, including the Christmas Day victory that officially ended Detroit’s playoff hopes. This rematch comes at a critical point in the schedule, as it’s one of the final four games of the season. Even more challenging, three of those last four games are on the road against NFC North opponents.
Winning in Minnesota would give Detroit valuable breathing room before road trips to Chicago and Green Bay to close the season. It’s still unclear whether the Vikings will start J.J. McCarthy or Kyler Murray, but regardless of who is under center, this is a game the Lions should believe they can win.
A loss could leave Detroit needing to win its final two divisional games just to have a realistic chance at capturing the NFC North. That makes this one of the biggest swing games on the entire schedule.
