The Detroit Lions have been the team to beat in the NFC for most of the 2024 NFL season, consistently holding the top spot in the conference. However, with one of their main challengers finally catching up, the Lions’ grip on the number one seed is starting to slip. In this article, we’ll explore the various scenarios and chances for Detroit to clinch the coveted NFC No. 1 seed.

Current Standings

As it stands, the Detroit Lions are tied for first place in the NFC with a 12-2 record, alongside the surging San Francisco 49ers. The Lions have been impressive all season, with a strong offense and stout defense that has allowed them to dominate their opponents. However, the 49ers have been gaining momentum in recent weeks, and their latest win has brought them level with the Lions.

Scenarios for Clinching the No. 1 Seed

For the Lions to clinch the No. 1 seed in the NFC, they need to win out their remaining two games and hope that the 49ers drop at least one of their final two contests. Here are the possible scenarios:

1. Lions win out, 49ers lose one: If the Lions win their remaining two games against the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings, and the 49ers lose one of their final two games against the Arizona Cardinals or Seattle Seahawks, Detroit will secure the No. 1 seed.

2. Lions win out, 49ers lose both: If the Lions win their remaining two games and the 49ers lose both of their final two games, Detroit will clinch the No. 1 seed regardless of any other results.

3. Lions lose one, 49ers lose both: If the Lions lose one of their remaining two games and the 49ers lose both of their final two games, Detroit can still clinch the No. 1 seed if they have a better conference record than the 49ers.

Chances of Clinching the No. 1 Seed

While the Lions are still in a strong position to clinch the No. 1 seed, their chances have taken a hit with the 49ers’ recent surge. According to ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI), the Lions have a 60% chance of clinching the No. 1 seed, down from 80% just a week ago. The 49ers, on the other hand, have a 40% chance of overtaking the Lions and securing the top spot.

The Detroit Lions are still in control of their own destiny, but their grip on the NFC No. 1 seed is starting to slip. With two games remaining, the Lions need to win out and hope that the 49ers drop at least one of their final two contests. While the scenarios are complex, one thing is clear: the Lions need to focus on winning their remaining games and let the rest take care of itself.