The 2023 season race is on at full throttle, and the Detroit Lions are playing like they intend to be in it to the end. They took another big step forward to keep their grip on first place in the NFC North Sunday with a 42-24 win over the Carolina Panthers at Ford Field. It was the Lions’ third straight win and made their win-loss record 4-1. This is the first time since 2011 that they’ve started the season this well. But will they continue to shock the nation throughout the rest of the season?

“I’m really shocked to see the progress they’ve made,” said senior Kyle Valik when asked about how he felt about the Lions this year.

Not only is he happy about the changes they’ve made so far, but he’s also optimistic about the future for the Lions.

“I think the Lions can make a deep run in the playoffs this season,” Valik said. “They have a lot of players that are doing well, and they still have time to grow,” Valik said.

Many others are very hopeful about the Detroit Lions playoff chances, just like Valik.

Freshman Gibson Ichesco also thinks the Lions are the team to beat. “The Lions might win the Super Bowl this year,” Ichesco said. “They definitely have a shot considering they are on a 4-1 start.” He also thinks it was beneficial for the Lions to beat the defending Super Bowl champions.

With the Lions being the number one team in the NFC North and on a three-game win streak, they are looking to continue this throughout the season and host some playoff games. Despite some injured players, the Lions hope to get back to being a powerhouse football team like they were back in the day, possibly making an appearance at the Super Bowl this year.