The Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions rivalry is one of the most storied in the NFL, and their matchups consistently deliver compelling storylines, strategic depth, and standout individual performances. This article provides a comprehensive statistical breakdown of their recent games, focusing on player performances, key matchups, and team dynamics that define this divisional clash.
Team Overview and Historical Context
The Packers and Lions have met 185 times since 1930, with Green Bay leading the series 106-78-7. Recent matchups, however, have seen Detroit gain momentum, winning five of the last six games. The Lions are currently riding an NFL-leading 10-game winning streak, while the Packers have won three straight, highlighting the competitive balance of this rivalry.
Recent Game Context (2025 Season)
- Week 9: Lions defeated Packers, leveraging a strong first-half performance to build a 24-3 lead early in the third quarter.
- Week 13: The teams are set to meet again in Detroit, with the Lions slightly favored.
Key Player Statistics and Performances
Green Bay Packers Key Players
Jordan Love (QB):
- Passing: 12/20 completions, 206 yards, 1 TD
- Quarterback Rating: 111.7
Love’s efficiency has been critical to the Packers’ offensive success, particularly in their recent winning streak.
Josh Jacobs (RB):
- Rushing: 18 attempts, 66 yards, 3 TDs
- Receiving: 4 receptions, 50+ yards in two of the last three games
Jacobs has been the highest-graded running back by PFF over the last three weeks, leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns during that span.
Christian Watson (WR):
- Receiving: 4 receptions, 114 yards
Watson’s explosive playmaking ability has provided a downfield threat for the Packers’ offense.
Xavier McKinney (S):
Key defender in the Packers’ Cover 3 scheme, which has allowed only 2.9 YAC/att (among the best in the NFL). McKinney’s range as a deep safety has been instrumental in limiting big plays.
Detroit Lions Key Players
Jared Goff (QB):
- Passing: 32/41 completions, 283 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT
Goff excels against man coverage but has been less efficient against zone defenses, particularly Cover 3.
David Montgomery (RB):
- Rushing: 14 attempts, 51 yards, 1 TD
Montgomery’s physical running style complements the Lions’ offensive diversity.
Amon-Ra St. Brown (WR):
- Receiving: 5 receptions, 43 yards
St. Brown’s reliability in the slot has made him a favorite target for Goff.
Alim McNeill (DT):
Key contributor to a Lions run defense that allows very few yards after contact per attempt. His interior presence is critical against powerful rushing attacks like Green Bay’s.
Statistical Breakdown of Team Performance
Offensive Comparison (2025 Season)
| Category | Green Bay Packers | Detroit Lions |
|---|---|---|
| Points/Game | 26.1 | 33.1 |
| Yards/Game | 366.7 | 415.7 |
| Yards/Play | 6.1 | 6.3 |
| 3rd Down Conversion % | 40.39% | 46.98% |
| Red Zone TD % | 58.33% | 67.95% |
| Rushing Yards/Game | 144.6 | 149.4 |
| Passing Yards/Game | 222.1 | 266.3 |
Defensive Comparison (2025 Season)
| Category | Green Bay Packers | Detroit Lions |
|---|---|---|
| Opp Points/Game | 21.5 | 20.0 |
| Opp Yards/Game | 350.1 | 313.2 |
| Opp Yards/Play | 5.8 | 5.2 |
| Opp 3rd Down % | 32.49% | 36.53% |
| Opp Red Zone TD % | 54.24% | 57.41% |
| Sacks/Game | 2.5 | 2.8 |
Tactical Matchups and Strategic Insights
Key Battle 1: Packers’ Rushing Attack vs. Lions’ Run Defense
Josh Jacobs has been the engine of the Packers’ offense, averaging 3.6 yards/carry and leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns over the last three weeks. The Lions’ run defense ranks near the top of the league but faces challenges due to injuries, including the loss of DT DJ Reader.
Edge: The Lions’ ability to contain Jacobs will dictate the game’s tempo. If Jacobs breaks explosive runs, Green Bay can control time of possession.
Key Battle 2: Jared Goff vs. Packers’ Zone Defense
The Packers run Cover 2 on about 23% of snaps and Cover 3 on about 32%.
Goff’s performance against zone coverage:
- Cover 2: 77% completion, 8.6 yards/attempt, positive EPA/dropback
- Cover 3: 72.7% completion, 9.4 yards/attempt, but only 45.5% success rate
Edge: Packers must force Goff into inefficient down-and-distance situations to mitigate his effectiveness.
Injury Impact and Team Dynamics
- Lions’ Injuries: The absence of DT DJ Reader and potential reshuffling of the defensive front could lead to assignment gaps against the run.
- Packers’ Strengths: Their offensive line, while ranked low in run blocking, has benefited from Jacobs’ ability to generate yards after contact (best in the NFL).
Conclusion: Implications for the NFC North
The Packers vs. Lions matchup is more than a divisional game; it is a battle of contrasting styles and strategic excellence. The Packers rely on a balanced attack led by Josh Jacobs, while the Lions leverage Jared Goff’s precision and a top-ranked offense. With both teams vying for divisional supremacy, this game could ultimately decide the NFC North title.