With the NFL season right around the corner, excitement is building in Detroit.

Many have pointed out how grueling the upcoming schedule may be, but that hasn’t slowed down the buzz about the Lions as Super Bowl contenders.

What makes this season especially challenging for a team expecting to play in February? Which games could be the most difficult tests for Detroit?

Here are five of the toughest games on the Lions’ 2025 schedule:

Week 2 vs. Chicago Bears: Loss

Former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will make his return to Detroit as the head coach of the Bears.

After defeating the Green Bay Packers in Week 1, the Lions will be caught off guard by Chicago. Much like the unexpected losses to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks in the past couple of seasons, Week 2 will once again result in a surprising wake-up call for Detroit.

Expect a high-scoring game with flashes of excellent defense, but not enough to shut down the Bears’ revitalized offense. The loss will expose key defensive flaws, setting the stage for adjustments and a bounce-back performance in Week 3 at Baltimore.

Though still early in the season, it’s a matchup that may loom for the divisional race later in the year.

Week 10 @ Washington Commanders: Loss

The Lions will seek revenge against the Commanders, who ended their postseason hopes last January. Even if Detroit’s defense is not as injured this time around, the Commanders will be stronger than last year. Their franchise is trending the same way the Lions are, so this will be a battle of explosive offenses. 

Week 11 @ Philadelphia Eagles: Win

The reigning Super Bowl champions underwent a lot of change in the offseason. Despite that, the Eagles remain a powerhouse.

Not enough of a powerhouse though, as the Lions’ offense will lead them to victory in this one. Philadelphia has a lot of new players on defense, which Detroit can capitalize on. The Lions are experienced offense, and a high-scoring affair would give them an advantage in this primetime matchup. 

Week 15 @ Los Angeles Rams: Loss

The last couple of encounters between the Rams and Lions have been cinematic: a one-point thriller in the Wild Card and an overtime season opener. This game should be just as electric.

Unfortunately for Detroit, the chances of going 15-2 in consecutive seasons just aren’t that high. Between an early missed first down and a late penalty, the Lions will fly back to Detroit with another loss. This will be enough to propel the Lions into the final stretch of their season, and a pair of tough divisional matchups.

Week 17 @ Minnesota Vikings: Win

Winning the NFC North won’t come easy this season. Vikings’ quarterback J.J. McCarthy will have had time to acclimate to the NFL. With how intense the division could be, every game matters.

The strength of the Vikings’ offensive line could prove troublesome for the Lions. Detroit will need strong performances from their secondary. Amik Robertson, Kerby Joseph, D.J. Reed, and the rest of the group will need to step up. 

A Test of Detroit’s Adversity

These five games will play a major role in shaping Detroit’s season. Losses are inevitable, but it’s how the Lions responds to adversity that will determine their fate.

Every contender needs a few true tests to prepare for a deep postseason run. These matchups will show just how ready the Lions are for a Super Bowl push.