Lions 2026 schedule: Game most likely to be a loss

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) makes a pass against Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson (97) during the second half at Ford Field in Detroit on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Another day, another opportunity to include an entry in our superlative series on the Detroit Lions’ 2026 schedule .

For the rest of this week, we’re breaking down a different angle of Detroit’s schedule every day, with each of us on staff offering our unique perspective on what the schedule makers have put together for the Lions. Here’s a look at our previous entries so far: Most important game or stretch of the season Most anticipated matchup Biggest “measuring-stick” game Toughest stretch on the schedule Best spot to make a statement in a nationally-televised game Today’s superlative has us each picking the game on the schedule we’re most convinced is a loss for the Lions in 2026. Game we’re most convinced is a loss Brandon Knapp: Week 2 @ Buffalo Bills The Bills are a tough team to play and being the first opponent in their new stadium is going to make it even tougher.

The crowd will bring its ‘A’ game, and the Bills should be as healthy as the Lions. Josh Allen is a great QB and on a short week, it might not be enough time to prepare. The only thing that favors the Lions is no snow, so weather can’t be an excuse.

Erik Schlitt: Week 2 @ Buffalo Bills There are some difficult games on the Lions’ schedule this season, but I think they’re built to have a chance to win all of them. That being said, in the spirit of the question, traveling to Buffalo in Week 2, on a Thursday night, on a day that the Bills will be debuting their brand new stadium—seems like their toughest task right now. Morgan Cannon: Week 2 @ Buffalo Bills I hate to admit it, but going into Buffalo and winning against a very motivated Bills team in front of what should be a really raucous crowd is going to be tough.