Will the Detroit Lions finally get help in NFC playoff race?

The race for the top seed in the NFC is essentially down to just four teams at this point, with the 11-1 Detroit Lions leading the way. Hot on their trails are the Minnesota Vikings (9-2), Philadelphia Eagles (9-2), and Green Bay Packers (9-3). Every other NFC team has at least five losses, meaning Detroit would have to go 1-4 down the stretch to give any other team a chance to enter the conversation.

Unfortunately for the Lions, these other three teams in contention have not allowed them any wiggle room. The Lions may be on a 10-game winning streak, but the Eagles have a seven-game streak of their own, the Vikings have won four straight and the Packers have won seven of their last eight.

However, Week 13 is the week the Lions could finally create some distance. While the Packers already won their Thursday night matchup, the Eagles and Vikings have significant challenges on Sunday.

So today’s Question of the Day is:

Will the Lions finally get help in the NFC playoff race?

My answer: First, let’s look at the two relevant matchups:

Eagles (9-2) at Ravens (8-4) — 4:25 p.m ET — CBS (nationally televised)

Everyone will get a chance to see the Eagles in their biggest test to date. Lamar Jackson has a ridiculous record against NFC teams as a starter (23-1), so it’s no surprise that Baltimore is favored, although it’s just a three-point line according to FanDuel.

Cardinals (6-5) at Vikings (9-2) — 1 p.m. ET — FOX

Arizona’s season has been wildly up and down, but they currently hold a share of the NFC West lead (with the Seahawks), so this is a very important game for them. Last week their four-game winning streak was stopped after a letdown game against Seattle where they managed just six points and 49 yards rushing. The Vikings defense will be a challenge for Kyler Murray and company, which is likely why Minnesota is a 3.5-point favorite.

So will the Lions get some help? Yeah, I think the Ravens will topple the Eagles’ winning streak. But I don’t expect the Vikings to fall in this game, despite their recent shaky play. So in the end, the Lions may create some distance from the rest of the NFC, but I expect the NFC North to remain extremely tight.

What do you think? Vote in the poll below and share why in the comment section at the bottom of the page.