Lions vs. Packers: Halftime Stats for the Lions

Week 17 is here, and the Lions have clinched a playoff spot. Congratulations are in order for a loyal fanbase that has been through a decade of turmoil.

Good news is on the horizon, but the Lions need to finish this game strong. Let's take a look at a few key first-half stats.

16 TDs

Who else but Calvin? With his 16th receiving touchdown of the season, Johnson broke the Lions’ single-season for touchdown catches. In a year that many believed he would break out with a healthy Matthew Stafford in tow, he’s gone on to lead the NFC in touchdowns and receiving yards. If he finishes out the day leading in both categories, Johnson earns a fat $4.5 million bonus. I’d say he’s got some incentive.

601 YDs, 5 TDs

While most of the hype has gone to rookie wide receivers AJ Green, Julio Jones and Torrey Smith, Titus Young has quietly put together a very nice rookie season. With 18 yards and a touchdown today, he has gone over the 600-yard mark with five scores on the season. By anyone’s standard that’s a very respectable mark for a rookie season.

3 Big Mistakes

Two forced fumbles and a missed kick by the usually sure-footed Jason Hanson have put the Lions in a 24-19 hole. Though the game is very close, the Lions need to realize what is at stake. If they win today they are guaranteed to play the winner of the Cowboys/Giants game tonight. If they lose, they are likely looking at a matchup with the Saints in New Orleans. That’s not a game they’d be looking forward to.