I don't see the Lions as a playoff team next year. Not yet, at least. It's April and that could change, but at first glance the NFL schedule leaves me thinking 8-8. They have four very winnable games to start, but this is the NFL and almost no one goes 4-0. Similarly, they close with a rugged second half that includes December road trips to Indianapolis and Green Bay. But with four of their final six at home, I wouldn't expect another late-season slide.

How do I see things shaking out? Let's go game-by-game:

Sept. 7 at Atlanta — The Falcons have a first-year coach and plenty of problems. Win.

Sept. 14 Green Bay — Packers struggle early without Favre. Win.

Sept. 21 at San Francisco — Lions will be amped to beat Mike Martz, but the 49ers are better than last year. Loss.

Oct. 5 Chicago — Back home after the bye and back on track. Win.

Oct. 12 at Minnesota — Can't stop Adrian Peterson in Minnesota. Loss.

Oct. 19 at Houston — Texas might be a playoff team. Loss.

Oct. 26 Washington — It's not in D.C., so Lions have a chance. Win.

Nov. 2 at Chicago — Lions won't sweep series again. Loss.

Nov. 9 Jacksonville — Jags are one of AFC's top teams. Loss.

Nov. 16 at Carolina — Three straight losses would be tough to swallow. Loss.

Nov. 23 Tampa Bay — Must-need victory or season sinks again. Win.

Nov. 27 Tennessee — Vince Young gobbled up on Thanksgiving. Win.

Dec. 7 Minnesota — Three straight the other way. Win.

Dec. 14 at Indianapolis — Colts could be fighting for homefield throughout. Loss.

Dec. 21 New Orleans — Still playoff dreamin'. Win.

Dec. 28 at Green Bay — And the streak continues. Loss.