NFL Week 18 power rankings: Lions sit tight at No. 5 after loss to Cowboys

The Detroit Lions have received a lot of attention after a contentious call cost them a 20-19 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday. However, the happenings at AT&T Stadium have had little to no impact on where the Lions are ranked in this week’s power rankings by journalists throughout the country. One could claim that it was beneficial.

After defeating the Minnesota Vikings in Week 16 to clinch the NFC North title, the Lions were placed as high as No. 3, with pundits praising their defense, particularly safety Ifeatu Melifonwu. The Lions’ offense, led by Jared Goff and a slew of weapons, received high marks as well.

However, NFL journalists this week had the Lions mainly ranked fifth, with ESPN rating them one spot higher and CBS Sports placing them two spots lower. Some of the inconsistency in the rankings derives from Detroit’s decision to go for the two-point conversion three times in a row against Dallas rather than kicking the extra point.

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Here’s a look at the Lions’ position in this week’s NFL power rankings.

“The Lions are still licking their wounds from the contentious two-point play and are left to wonder what could have been.” They would have had a chance to play for the NFC’s top seed in Week 18 if they had defeated the Cowboys. They’re still guaranteed a No. 3 seed and a home playoff game, but the loss to Dallas is devastating. This group’s fortitude will be put to the test once more. There’s a lot to be encouraged about, as the Lions have overcome a number of obstacles this season, and they’ll be a tough playoff out, especially in Detroit, but even if they have to go on the road, where they’re 6-3 with some quality wins this season.

“This team has a 19-7 record dating back to Week 9 of last season.” Dan Campbell and Jared Goff have given considerably more answers than they have received. The question now is whether this club is capable of winning the Super Bowl. In an NFC field where every top contender has struggled this season, I’ll give them a chance right now.”

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“Because Goff is under contract through 2024 and could become an unrestricted free agent in 2025, the Lions must decide what to do with the veteran quarterback.” He has guided the Lions back to relevance, capturing their first division title since 1993 and passing for 4,000 yards for the fourth time in his career. Locking down Goff makes sense, but the question is whether it will be for the short or long term. He has seized charge of Detroit’s offense while also rejuvenating his career.”

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“Recall how much flak Detroit received for selecting running back Jahmyr Gibbs at No. 12 and inside linebacker Jack Campbell at No. 18? Gibbs has ranked eighth in the league in rushing (72.25 yards per game) since Week 14. Campbell leads the club in tackles (77) this season. Sam LaPorta, the No. 34 pick, has also been productive, catching 81 catches for 860 yards and nine touchdowns. (I apologize for the ref issue. We hope that being ahead of the Cowboys in these rankings makes everything better.)”

“The Lions are most likely to receive the NFC’s third playoff seed.” They have no chance of obtaining the top seed and a bye. This is an excellent chance for head coach Dan Campbell to rest starters. But does Campbell strike you as the type of coach who would bench anyone?”

“Did they actually lose on Saturday?” Regardless, this is a team capable of wreaking havoc in the postseason… if its players are, ahem, eligible.”

“For a team that prides itself on biting kneecaps, the Lions got too cute with the No. 2 seed on the line.”

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“The Cowboys were poised for an upset victory until officials penalized their trick two-point conversion pass to offensive lineman Taylor Decker with 23 seconds remaining.” Was it a missed call? That’s how it appears. There was no consolation for the Lions after their third attempt at the game-winning two points resulted in an incompletion by Jared Goff.”

“The Lions appeared to be doomed in Dallas until a late rally by their defense and big pass plays.” They are working hard to gain momentum heading into the playoffs, hosting their first postseason game in 30 years. With Matthew Stafford and the red-hot Rams looming, they must stay alert.”

“Even with the controversy, that was a tough loss to the Cowboys on the road.” They will be the NFC’s second or third seed.”