A Monday Win in Dallas Would Put Lions in the Playoffs

For Detroit Lions fans, Monday night football hasn't been this exciting in a long long time.

With the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ loss to the New Orleans Saints on Saturday, the Lions can clinch a playoff berth by defeating the Dallas Cowboys on Monday night. The game begins at 8:30 p.m. on ESPN.

Regardless of  Monday's outcome, the NFC North division title won’t be decided until the regular-season finale at Ford Field at 8:30 p.m. Jan. 1 against the Green Bay Packers (9-6), who have won five straight games. 

A first-round playoff bye also could be available for the Packers-Lions winner on New Year's Day.