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NFL: These Are The Teams That Will Make The Playoffs

By Carlos Nazario

Nov 2, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) looks downfield against the Denver Broncos during the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 2, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) looks downfield against the Denver Broncos during the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

NFC 6th Seed: Detroit  Lions (10-6)

Tell me if you’ve heard this before. The Detroit Lions are in first place halfway through the season. They were in this position a season ago, before tanking and ending up in third place.

This season is different, though. They have a new coach in Jim Caldwell.

Caldwell has had success coaching the Colts. Of course, he had Peyton Manning when he succeeded. When he didn’t, he lost and was kicked out.

In Detroit, Caldwell does have Matthew Stafford, one of the top arms in the league. Caldwell just has to reign him in and have him be stronger mentally.

Caldwell also has to keep the Lions from self-destructing. They were an undisciplined bunch with Jim Schwartz as their coach, but Caldwell has demanded more accountability, and so far at least, it is working.

What the Lions also have is the top rated defense. This is the longest they have gone into a season with that. They have cut down on the penalties and as a result they have cut down on the points allowed. It is that defense that will help them get into the playoffs.

The main concern I have with the Lions is Calvin Johnson. He has not been healthy this season, and he will be a key for the Lions to make it to the playoffs. If he cannot stay healthy, this may be another promising season lost for Detroit.

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