The Detroit Lions' 2026 schedule is officially out, and you know what that means—it's time for some bold, way-too-early predictions. For the fifth straight year, analysts Erik Schlitt and Jeremy Reisman are breaking down the season game by game, and while they might not nail every single matchup, their track record for predicting the Lions' overall record is surprisingly solid.
On paper, the Lions' 2026 slate looks more manageable than in recent years—in fact, they're projected to have the easiest schedule in the entire NFL. That might explain why FanDuel Sportsbook has Detroit as the clear favorites to win the NFC North (+145), make the playoffs (-215), and even make a serious Super Bowl run (+1700). The hype is real, but can they deliver?
Let's dive into the early predictions and see how the experts think the season will unfold.
Week 1: vs. New Orleans Saints
Erik: The Saints might be better than people think, but the Lions will come out hungry and focused. Expect a strong start at home as Detroit sets the tone for the season. Lions win (1-0).
Jeremy: New Orleans finished 2025 on a hot streak, winning four of their last five, so they could surprise some folks. But there's no way Detroit drops their home opener. Lions win (1-0).
Week 2: at Buffalo Bills
Jeremy: The memory of that 2024 Thanksgiving loss still stings. But Buffalo's offense—especially with DJ Moore—could give Detroit's defense fits again. Add in a rowdy crowd at the Bills' brand-new stadium on a Thursday night, and this might be the toughest game on the entire schedule. Lions lose (1-1).
Erik: The Bills are arguably the hardest opponent on the Lions' schedule, so getting them early is actually a break. But walking into a new stadium against a perennial playoff team on prime time? That's a tall order. It gives me flashbacks to that 2025 Week 3 Monday night game in Baltimore. Lions lose (1-1).
Stay tuned as the season unfolds—and whether you're gearing up for game day or just dreaming of that Super Bowl run, make sure you're repping the Lions in style. After all, every great season starts with the right gear.