Detroit Lions Updated Division, Playoff Standings

The Detroit Lions are growing closer to their first division championship since 1993. 

The organization has never truly won the NFC North division, as their last division title came prior to realignment when they played in the NFC Central division. 

Sitting at 9-3, Detroit will enter Week 14 with a three game advantage over Minnesota and Green Bay, who hold 6-6 records. The Lions split the season series with the Packers and will play both games against Minnesota in a three-game stretch to end the season. 

The Packers, in particular, have put together strong performances as of late. They have won three in a row and four of their last five games. Green Bay could go on a roll, too, as all but one of their remaining games are against teams with losing records. 

The Lions are in the midst of a pivotal stretch. If the team continues its winning ways, it could secure the division title by the conclusion of Week 16. 

Up next for the Lions is a road game at Chicago, which could prove challenging given the results of the two teams games at home just two weeks ago. 

After that, Detroit will host Denver in primetime before playing Minnesota, Dallas and then Minnesota again to close the year. 

Here's how the NFC North and NFC playoff standings look as Week 13 comes to an end. 

NFC North standings

1.) Detroit Lions (9-3)

2.) Minnesota Vikings (6-6)

3.) Green Bay Packers (6-6)

4.) Chicago Bears (4-8)

Updated NFC playoff picture

1.) Philadelphia Eagles (10-2)

2.) San Francisco 49ers (9-3)

3.) Detroit Lions (9-3)

4.) Atlanta Falcons (6-6)

5.) Dallas Cowboys (9-3)

6.) Minnesota Vikings (6-6)

7.) Green Bay Packers (6-6)