What happened: The New England Patriots turn their focus to an upcoming matchup against the Detroit Lions. New England is coming off a 45-27 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Nov. 8. Detroit enters the contest after securing a 19-9 road victory against the Miami Dolphins.
Why it matters: Detroit sits at 6-2 and controls the fifth seed in the NFC playoff picture, building on expectations where Detroit's roster continuity demanded a postseason return. For New England, the matchup presents a road test against one of the NFC's top records following a quiet trade deadline.
By the numbers: Detroit enters at 6-2 holding the NFC fifth seed after conceding 9 points in Miami on Nov. 8, while New England surrendered 45 points in a 45-27 home defeat to Green Bay.
What to watch: The teams meet on Sunday as New England looks to stabilize its defense and Detroit aims to maintain its position in the NFC postseason race.