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Are the Detroit Lions’ chances of winning the Super Bowl over?
This question was explored in the latest episode of the “Inside Coverage” podcast.
Short answer: No, the Lions’ Super Bowl window is still open.
More in-depth: The team’s position is less stable compared to last season.
Why is that?
Jason Fitz and Frank Schwab broke down the situation into three key points:
Key departures and changes: The Lions have lost several critical figures, including both their offensive and defensive coordinators. Additionally, all-pro center Frank Lagnau and guard Kevin Zitler have retired, and many position coaches have left. Two out of five members of last season’s highly regarded offensive line are no longer with the team.
Erosion effect: Fitz and Schwab agree that while the Lions remain Super Bowl contenders with a strong roster, gradual losses are taking a toll—a “small erosion” in Frank’s words. It’s not a disaster but a series of changes that add up, making it harder to reach the top. Losing coordinators, an aging roster, tougher injuries, and a demanding schedule all chip away at their previous dominance. For instance, going from a 15-2 record and a top seed in the NFC last year might now translate into an 11-6 record and a lower playoff seed.
More intense competition: This season, the Lions face one of the NFL’s toughest schedules and an NFC North division that’s grown stronger, with the Bears, Packers, and Vikings all showing playoff potential. Fitz and Schwab debated who might win the division, with Fitz leaning towards a team other than the Lions at this point.
It’s not that the Lions lack talent—they still have a solid roster—but the margin for error has shrunk. The changes and challenges make replicating last season’s success far from guaranteed.
To catch more NFL insights, tune into Inside Coverage on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube.
Fan Take: This update is crucial for NFL fans because it highlights how even minor changes in coaching and player availability can significantly impact a team’s Super Bowl hopes. For the sport, it underscores the importance of depth and adaptability as the competition intensifies each season.
