In Week 13, the Detroit Lions' future opponents combined to go 2-2. Here's a look at how each team performed:
Week 14 - vs. Buccaneers (2-10) - lost to Bengals, 14-13
For the second week in a row, the Bucs managed to blow a 10-0 lead. This time around, their collapse began in the second quarter. Eventually, the Bucs fell behind toward the end of the third quarter, and all they could manage in response was one field goal in the fourth quarter. It looked like they were on track to win the game with a second field goal in the fourth quarter, but a penalty for having too many players on the field ultimately did them in.
Week 15 - vs. Vikings (5-7) - beat Panthers, 31-13
Despite being outgained by a margin of 348-210, the Vikings won this game comfortably. How did that happen? It's really quite simple: Minnesota blocked two punts in the first half and returned both for touchdowns. That, plus an efficient day for Teddy Bridgewater -- he went 15-for-21 for 138 yards and two touchdowns -- led to a one-sided Vikings victory.
Week 16 - at Bears (5-7) - lost to Lions, 34-17
The Bears jumped out to a 14-3 lead before the Lions took control of this game. Chicago struggled to consistently put together good drives after the first quarter, and they got lit up on defense, giving up a total of 474 yards on the day.
Week 17 - at Packers (9-3) - beat Patriots, 26-21
I think it's safe to say that the Packers are the best team in the NFL right now. They managed to slow down the hottest team in the league by containing Tom Brady and getting the job done on offense. Aaron Rodgers was brilliant as usual, throwing for 368 yards and two touchdowns on 28 attempts, and Eddie Lacy pitched in with 98 yards on 21 carries. It was really an impressive win for the Packers in what many are already calling a preview of Super Bowl XLIX.