Detroit Lions’ Playoff Game Draws Record Ticket Prices Amid Winter Weather

DETROIT, Mich. — Ford Field will host the NFC divisional round playoff game this Saturday as the top-seeded Detroit Lions face off against the Washington Commanders. The Lions, riding high on a 15-2 regular-season record, are making their 2025 playoff debut, and fans are flocking to witness what could be a historic moment for the franchise.

Ticket prices have soared to an average of $855, making it the most expensive playoff game in Lions history. For context, last year’s NFC Championship Game in San Francisco averaged $783, while the Lions’ Week 15 game this season cost fans $475. This game ranks as the third-most expensive non-Super Bowl playoff ticket since 2010, trailing only last year’s NFC Championship Game ($974) and the 2021 Bills-Chiefs AFC Championship Game ($863).

The Lions, with just three playoff wins in the Super Bowl era, are looking to build on last season’s success. Fans are eager to see if the team can advance closer to their first championship since 1957. “This is a sports town. We feel the love and appreciate it,” said Lions head coach Dan Campbell on X, formerly Twitter.

However, the weather may pose challenges for tailgaters. AccuWeather forecasts snow and rain in the morning, with temperatures hovering around 34 degrees Fahrenheit. Roads are expected to be slow and slippery, though conditions should improve by afternoon. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. Eastern Time at Ford Field, an indoor stadium, so the game itself will not be affected by the weather.

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels emphasized the importance of staying focused despite the conditions. “You got to go out there and stick to your routine, stick to who you are, the process of what got you there, and go out there and just play football,” he said via the team’s X account.

NFL writer Bryan DeArdo of CBS Sports predicts a close game. “The Lions don’t play dull postseason games. Each of their three playoff games last year came down to the wire, and I expect that to again be the case on Saturday night. Washington will make them earn it, but the Lions should come out on top while getting to within a game of the Super Bowl,” he said.

The winners of this weekend’s divisional games will advance to the Conference championships on January 26, with the ultimate goal of reaching Super Bowl LIX on February 9.