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Green Bay Packers 2018 opponent preview: Detroit Lions

By Freddie Boston

GREEN BAY, WI - NOVEMBER 06: Matthew Stafford #9 of the Detroit Lions calls out instructions in the first quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on November 6, 2017 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
GREEN BAY, WI - NOVEMBER 06: Matthew Stafford #9 of the Detroit Lions calls out instructions in the first quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on November 6, 2017 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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Are the Detroit Lions playoff contenders in 2018?

The NFC North is going to be a difficult division to get out of in 2018. The Minnesota Vikings are the defending the champions. The Chicago Bears have improved this spring.

But what about the Detroit Lions? Are they ready to make the next step?

Here’s a closer look at the Green Bay Packers’ division rivals.

Last season

The Lions finished an up-and-down season with a 9-7 record, the same they achieved in 2016. Like the year prior, it was good for second place in the NFC North, although this time Detroit missed out on a playoff berth.

When are the games?

The first meeting between will take place in Week 5 at Ford Field. That game kicks off at 12 noon CT on Sunday, Oct. 7.

The two teams meet again at Lambeau Field in Week 17. That game will be played on Sunday, Dec. 30 at 12 noon CT. Expect a frozen afternoon in Green Bay.

Offseason additions

The Lions continued to build on their offensive line, using their first-round selection on center Frank Ragnow. If Ragnow can start early on, the offensive line could soon become a strength in Detroit. The Lions also selected tackle Tyrell Crosby in the fifth round, a player many viewed as a Day 2 pick.

That would be music to the ears of the team’s two new running backs: LeGarrette Blount and Kerryon Johnson. Blount signed a one-year deal in free agency. Johnson was the team’s second-round draft pick.

Last meeting with Packers

Dec. 31, 2017: Lions won 35-11 at Ford Field

Player to watch

Kerryon Johnson: The Lions haven’t been able to run the ball consistently for what feels like forever. Johnson is here to change that.

Despite signing Blount in free agency, Johnson is the future. The Lions will be hoping their work at building the offensive line will make life easier for the rookie running back. If he can give Detroit’s offense a boost, it will become much more difficult to stop them.

Next: Top 30 moments in Green Bay Packers history

If Johnson has a strong rookie season, the Lions will have a good chance in both games against the Packers.

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