After looking like the 2nd half of the season would be a cakewalk, suddenly the Lions schedule looks very difficult and it could be argued our easiest remaing game is on Thanksgiving vs the Packers. Here’s how I would rate the rest of the season’s games, from most difficult to easiest:
- @ Cowboys
- @ Vikings
- Broncos
- Vikings
- @ Saints
- @ Bears
- Packers
I look at this as a very tough schedule and 3-4 losses is not out of the realm. At NO and at CHI will be very hard to win. Broncos are one of the hottest teams and have Sean Payton turning things around. I only feel comfortable with the Packers on Thursday, but all division games are unpredictable.
It’s always interesting how things shape up in the second half of the season. Young players gain maturity. Injuries happen. And just playing tough games takes a toll. Also teams learn how to match up against each other. Obviously the two games against Vikings are critical for the division. We’ll sweep either the packers or bears, maybe both. We absolutely cannot drop both games vs Minnesota. And I don’t think we will. Cowboys will be a tough game.
The thing that’s hard to predict is the mentality of the players. They can’t lose focus, get distracted or take anything for granted from here on out. This is on the coaching staff. Also things get tougher as other teams start to figure out our schemes, strengths and weaknesses. Again, it’s on the leadership to stay creative. Players gotta show up and play. But coaches gotta put them in a position to win.