This Sunday night, the Green Bay Packers host the Detroit Lions in a game that looks far simpler on paper than it will likely play out. The Lions have just four wins under their belt, while the Packers lead the NFC North with an 8-4 record.
Having only won the four games, it's somewhat surprising that NFL football odds (click to view) only have the Lions as a one touchdown underdog. The Lions have become masters of their own demise, and it seems possible, if not likely, that the Packers could win this one by double digits.
Still, that doesn't have to be the case. The Lions have a great front four that will almost certainly lay a few big hits on Aaron Rodgers during the course of the game. Along with that unit, the Lions have a very capable offense with the best receiver in the NFL today, Calvin Johnson.
The Lions have a bad tendency of doing one of two things during any given game. Sometimes, they get off to a quick start, but they shell up late and try to defend a lead that's just not big enough (see Colts game). Other times, the Lions play at a college level for three and a half quarters before mounting a comeback (see Titans game).
Detroit's challenge down the stretch is to play four sixty minute games. Jim Schwartz is on the hot seat, and considering their tough schedule, he could save his job with a pair of wins, maybe even with only one win. The Lions have played at a very low level this season, but they can still play with the best teams in the league, and they'll be trying to make the most of their shot at the Packers Sunday night.
