Detroit Lions Schedule, Season Prediction

Despite playing in one of the toughest divisions in football the Detroit Lions are also one of the dark horse NFC Super Bowl contenders this year. The schedule is tough however, and that's tempering some Lions season predictions heading into the season.

However, Detroit has as much upside and star power as almost any other team in the conference, now the question is whether or not they can stay healthy, especially QB Matt Stafford, and learn how to win the close ones.

Here is a look at key games of their 2011-2012 slate and a prediction on how they will finish:

Opener- @Tampa Bay-

The Buccaneers are one of the more underrated teams going into 2011 while the Lions are overrated. Tampa ran out of steam last year but they'll be a tough opener as they drafted well last year and are racking up depth. Still, you have to like Detroit's chances in this one.

Thanksgiving- vs. Green Bay-

The Packers are coming off of a Super Bowl win obviously but Detroit played them tough last year, splitting the series and knocking out Aaron Rodgers in the second game. Any team that wants to compete with Green Bay has to get after Rodgers and Detroit has the horses up front to do it on the defensive line. A win on Thanksgiving over the champs would be a great confidence and momentum booster for Detroit. This one is a coin flip.

Toughest game- @ Green Bay, Jan. 1-

It doesn't get much tougher than a winter game at Lambeau against the defending champs on the Lions' 2011 schedule. But this could be a great tune-up game for the playoffs if these teams play with something on the line and in tough conditions.

Easiest game- vs. San Francisco, Oct. 16-

The 49ers have quality talent but this is probably the easiest game on a daunting slate of games for the Lions. Detroit will be able to outscore the Niners with Stafford healthy especially, and even if Shaun Hill somehow has to play, he will be out to prove his former team wrong in trading him.

Final Detroit Lions 2011-2012 Schedule Prediction: The Lions have all the pieces to have a quality year if they don't let the expectations go to their heads. The pick here is that the Lions go 9-7 and sneak into the playoffs as they continue to build toward their first Super Bowl. But injuries have been a serious issue for them in many recent years, perhaps moreso than any other team.

Don't forget to knock on wood when you make your predictions, Lions fans.