2008 — The Detroit Lions lose to the Green Bay Packers 31-21, making them the first team to go winless through a 16-game season. 2008 — The New England Patriots become the NFL’s first team with an 11-5 record to miss the playoffs since Denver in 1985 and the first since the NFL expanded to six playoff teams per conference in 1990.

The NFC North has been the tightest division in football this season and the NFL will be delivering a late-season holiday gift on Sunday. In Week 17, the Green Bay Packers (11-4) will visit the Minnesota Vikings (13-2) for an exciting divisional and NFC contest.

Two NFC North playoff teams will meet again in a heavyweight fight before the playoffs with the Green Bay Packers (11-4) facing the Minnesota Vikings (13-2). Green Bay made sure it clinched its playoff spot in dominating fashion with the first shutout of the NFL season.

The Lions signed Bridgewater as insurance ahead of the playoffs in a move Lions coach Dan Campbell insisted was no reflection of their faith in Hooker as a backup.

The Detroit Lions have signed a familiar quarterback to the roster for the playoff run. Former Lions quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is signing with the Detroit Lions, which coach Dan Campbell confirmed Thursday.

The Detroit Lions are bringing back Teddy Bridgewater to give the team a veteran backup quarterback for their playoff run. Coach Dan Campbell said Thursday that the team signed Bridgewater as another backup with second-year player Hendon Hooker behind starter Jared Goff.