The Detroit Lions look to bounce back in 2026 after failing to make the playoffs last season. While that was a tough pill to swallow after the success that Detroit has had recently, it gives them an edge over the rest of their division.
In an article written by ESPN's Seth Walder, he pointed out that the Lions have the 31st ranked strength of schedule. That's by far the easiest one in the NFC North.
"The NFC North trio of the Bears, Packers and Vikings rank 10th, 14th and 16th in strength of schedule, respectively. But the Lions rank 31st. Detroit lucked out after finishing last in the division in 2025, as its fourth-place scheduled games differ significantly from its NFC North rivals."
Considering that the Lions won't have to face the same level of competition as their foes, this is something that works in their favor massively in 2026.
Lions have obvious edge over NFC North rivals
The other teams in the division have to match up against some powerhouses in the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks, along with the San Francisco 49ers. Meanwhile, the Lions play the Arizona Cardinals. The Cards aren't even in the same class as the other teams in the division, which should end up being a victory for Detroit.
In addition, the Lions match up against the New York Giants. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears play the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers play the Dallas Cowboys. Detroit will have to take care of business on the field during gameday but from the outside looking in, they will have some easier games on their slate.
That's beneficial for a Lions team that seeks to return to the postseason after going 9-8 in 2025. They were above .500 but were in last place, showcasing how jampacked the NFC North is. Having any sort of advantage will go a long way and Detroit's strength of schedule can't go under the radar.
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Playing against teams that aren't as good will give Detroit more opportunities to secure victories and every one matters. Taking care of business inside the division will need to be an area of improvement for the Lions, as they went 2-4 last season.
We know that will be a point of emphasis inside that building. Yet, what matters is what takes place on game day and securing wins. The Lions should be able to do that at higher rate in 2026 based on their opponents and that could help them return to the postseason after missing out last year.
Whenever you have an edge over your rivals, it's huge and this is an area that should work to Detroit's benefit.
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