The Detroit Lions wrapped up the NFL’s Week 15 Saturday tripleheader with a romp over the Denver Broncos. Jared Goff threw five touchdown passes, including three to rookie tight end Sam LaPorta in a 42-17 win. Detroit jumped on top 21-0 in the second quarter and never looked back.
The Lions improved 10-4 with the win and moved to three games up on the Vikings in the NFC North. The Vikings lost to the Bengals earlier on Saturday to drop to 7-7. The Lions remain in third place overall, a half game back of the Cowboys and 49ers in the overall NFC standings. Detroit cannot clinch the NFC North for another week, but they can clinch a playoff berth with some help on Sunday. There are a variety of scenarios in play, but the simplest involves the Seahawks losing. If Seattle loses, Detroit officially punches its ticket to the postseason.
The Broncos dropped to 7-7 with the loss and are now 1.5 games back of the Chiefs in the AFC West. Kansas City travels to New England on Sunday and a win would move them two up in the division with three weeks remaining. Denver drops to 11th place overall, tied with the Steelers and a a full game back of the Bengals and Colts for the final two wild card berths.
The Lions host the Vikings in Week 15 with a chance to clinch the NFC North title. The Broncos host the Patriots looking to keep their struggling playoff hopes alive.