If the Vikings beat the Packers on Sunday, the Lions can clinch the NFC North with a win in Week 18 no matter what they do vs. the 49ers.

After the Detroit Lions saw their fortunes take a pleasant turn with the Washington Commanders’ upset of the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday afternoon, it appeared possible the Minnesota Vikings would extend the favor by losing to the Seahawks in Seattle.

The Detroit Lions watched Washington beat Philadelphia on their cellphones following a 34-17 bounce-back win at Chicago that helped them keep pace with Minnesota in the race for the NFC North title and top seeding in the conference.

Minnesota is 13-2 and fighting for the No. 1 seed. But there are several significant concerns with this team as the playoffs approach.

Help could be on the way for the Green Bay Packers’ secondary for Sunday’s NFC North showdown at the Minnesota Vikings. Yes, cornerback Jaire

Is Detroit on a collision course with Minnesota for the top seed in the playoffs? Despite the best season in franchise history, their division rival may derail their plans for a first-round bye.

The Detroit Lions are a win and one Minnesota Vikings loss vs. Seattle or Green Bay from clinching the top NFC playoff seed and NFC North.

With two games to go, here's what the Lions need to have happen to clinch the NFC's No. 1 seed and secure a first-round bye.

A late 39-yard touchdown from Sam Darnold to Justin Jefferson lifted the Vikings to their eighth straight win.

Both the Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings won in Week 15, creating a tie atop the NFC as all three teams have 12-2 records. As it stands, Detroit currently holds the advantage over both teams. The Lions have a better record in the NFC than the Eagles, while they have the head-to-head tiebreaker over the Vikings.

A Christmas wish list for the Detroit Lions: what we want Santa to bring our football team this holiday season