The Detroit Lions took a dip in the power rankings after their loss on Thanksgiving. After they got back into the win column on Sunday, will they move back in this weeks power rankings? Let's take a look.
ESPN: 6th
Previous ranking: 7th
"There were obviously expectations for the Lions rookie after being selected in the second round (34th overall) of the 2023 NFL draft out of Iowa, but LaPorta has been better than advertised. Last season, Lions GM Brad Holmes made an unpopular decision to trade Pro Bowl tight end T.J. Hockenson to the Vikings and decided to go with a committee approach at the position. But this season, LaPorta has been the guy. His NFL career is off to a great start with the third-most catches (64) and the fourth-most receiving yards (679) through the first 12 games of a tight end's career in NFL history. Not many people expected this type of production from Day 1." -Eric Woodyard
Yahoo Sports: 6th
Previous ranking: 5th
"It was odd to see the Lions let the Saints get back in the game after jumping out to a quick 21-0 lead. Cynically you can wonder if it was a continuation of the Lions' midseason lull, but ultimately it was a needed road win over a decent opponent. The Lions will be fine." -Frank Schwab
The Athletic: 6th
Previous ranking: 7th
"After losing to Green Bay on Thanksgiving, Detroit had to hold on to beat reeling New Orleans on Sunday. The Lions are probably fine. They remain fourth in the league in touchdowns per drive (29.3 percent). Rookie tight end Sam LaPorta had nine catches for 140 yards Sunday, and he’s tied for the most touchdowns by a tight end (six) and has the fourth-most receiving yards among tight ends (679). But it would be cruel to this team’s fan base if it doesn’t finish strong." -Josh Kendall
USA Today: 7th
Previous ranking: 7th
"Given his general lack of impact well into his second NFL season, it's easy to forget what a weapon WR Jameson Williams can be. Then he serves fresh notice Sunday." -Nate Davis
CBS Sports: 7th
Previous ranking: 8th
"They got back on track beating the Saints, but they made it interesting. The defense has to be better than it has been in recent weeks." -Pete Prisco
The Sporting News: 7th
Previous ranking: 8th
"The Lions' defense still is having issues holding opponents down, now wilting vs. the run and not having reliable downfield coverage behind a limited pass rush. But when Jared Goff and protect the ball and they win the turnover margin and then finish with the running game." -Vinnie Iyer
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