NFL elects to keep Lions/Packers on Sunday night in Week 14

The NFL will keep the Detroit Lions in primetime when they take on the Green Bay Packers in Week 14 (Dec. 9). The NFC North showdown could have been flexed out of Sunday Night Football, but the league has elected to keep the matchup on national television.

Although the Lions are just 4-7 this season, they have kept games close. Five of their seven losses were by seven or fewer points, and their worst defeat was by only 10 points. In addition, their star players like Calvin Johnson and Ndamukong Suh will help attract a large audience.

Week 14 will be Detroit's fourth time on national television this season; they have lost their first three games in primetime. The Lions are also scheduled to appear on ESPN on Sat. Dec. 22 against the Atlanta Falcons.

The game won't just be about a division rivalry or history, as the Packers will be fighting for a playoff spot. Green Bay currently has a one-game lead for the first NFC wild-card spot. They also trail the Bears by one game in the NFC North.