Packers vs. Lions: 4 key matchups to watch in Week 18

Matchups to watch when the Packers take on the Lions in Week 18.

Week 18 might have a preseason-like feel to it. Well, at least for the Green Bay Packers, it will.

Green Bay’s starters are expected to play some against the Detroit Lions despite clinching the NFC’s top seed and a first-round bye a week ago. Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams were immediate spokesmen for the idea following the team’s clinching-win over the Minnesota Vikings.

Matt LaFleur has confirmed the starters will play, but no one knows how much. It could be a quarter, or, it could be a half until we see Jordan Love take the field. Many were excited at the possibility of Love taking on former Packers quarterback Tim Boyle to close out the year, however, Detroit head coach Dan Campbell announced Friday that Jared Goff is probable to play.

If no one gets hurt, that is a win for Green Bay. This game is essentially meaningless since they are guaranteed a week’s rest before finding out their opponent in the divisional round of the playoffs. The Lions, on the other hand, would like to finish the year by playing some good football that will hopefully carry over into 2022.

Let’s take a look at some key matchups that will hopefully keep you engaged this week.