5 bold predictions for Packers, NFC North in 2020 season

3. Lions return to playoffs

Oh, how the Detroit Lions’ 2019 season could’ve gone differently. Believe it or not, they could’ve started the season 5-0 in a run of games that included matchups with the Kansas City Chiefs and Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.

The Lions threw away a 24-6 lead in the fourth quarter of their season-opener with the Arizona Cardinals. They ended up tying the game. But they bounced back with victories over the Los Angeles Chargers and Philadelphia Eagles. In Week 4, they had the undefeated and soon-to-be Super Bowl champs on the ropes, leading the Chiefs on four different occasions. A Kenny Golladay touchdown could’ve put it away, but the Chiefs won on a TD with 20 seconds remaining.

After their bye, the Lions should’ve won again, this time against the Packers. Another fourth-quarter collapse allowed Green Bay to steal the victory.

Just a few weeks later, Matthew Stafford would suffer a season-ending injury and the Lions wouldn’t add to their win column again.

But with Stafford healthy and some smart offseason additions including cornerback Jeff Okudah and running back D’Andre Swift, the Lions can compete in the NFC North. Matt Patricia’s job could depend on it.

They’ll be the surprise team in the NFC and earn a wild-card berth.