5 Other NFL Teams For Michiganders To Root For With The Lions Failing Us (Again)

An enjoyable break to support the melancholy. No worries about memorable kicks, eleventh-hour defeats, or sudden overwhelming defeats to startle one’s emotions.

As the NFL season reaches its midpoint, the Detroit Lions, with a disappointing 0-8 record, have undoubtedly been excluded from any potential postseason excitement, intensifying the watch for an unfortunate winless 0-17 season.

What can a fan possibly do? In the realm of sports, particularly in the esteemed American cool kid league, fan codes are inflexible. Bandwagon hopping is strictly forbidden, especially in Detroit.

If there is any fan base that truly deserves a loophole, it is undoubtedly the devoted fans of the Leos.

We know you’d never, so we did

Instead, we present alternative team choices for Lions fans to temporarily support until this season’s nightmare comes to an end.

Certain teams have impressive odds of making it to the Super Bowl. Others may have lower chances, but their playing style seems to align well with the preferences of fans from Michigan. We have also provided a brief overview of their historical background to help you familiarize yourself, and we have even calculated the distance you would travel if you choose to attend their games in person.

You better go and enjoy yourself now, because when the next season rolls around, Detroit will undoubtedly win the Super Bowl. I bet you’re willing to wager your kneecaps on it.

5. Green Bay Packers (7-2, 1st in NFC North)

Aaro- … Not a chance.

The letter A stands for Absolutely Not.

No genuine Lions fan should ever venture into the NFC North division under any circumstances. It is simply unacceptable. Despite having Michigan native Matt LeFleur as the leader of the team, and especially considering that No. 12 of the North might have discovered a risky way to potentially lose his eligibility for a favorable State Farm rate.

5. Cleveland Browns (5-4, 3rd in AFC North)

Indeed, we ventured to that particular state. Which fan base, aside from the fellow sufferers of an undefeated season, comprehends the depths of despair akin to the Lions? The Browns endured a challenging phase, managing to secure three victories in 2015 and a mere one in 2016, before their grand spectacle of going 0-16 in 2017.

Under the leadership of NFL Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski, the team has thrived and flourished. In his inaugural season, Stefanski guided Cleveland to its first playoff appearance since 2002. (For those in Michigan who may not be aware, a “playoff game” occurs after the regular season to determine the league champion).

Although the Browns may not yet be frontrunners for the Lombardi Trophy, their connection with fans remains strong. For supporters of the Lions, the team offers solace akin to comfort food. This is because the Browns symbolize not only suffering but also aspiration and optimism.

If you’re tired of enduring countless never-ending drives in Ohio this year, why not consider checking out the Browns Backers Worldwide for a local spot to show your support? Meanwhile, we’ll examine the statistics.

Michigan oddsmakers give 30-1 odds for a Cleveland title

The big game is being offered with +3000 odds to Browns bettors by Caesars Sportsbook, PointsBet Sportsbook, and BetMGM Sportsbook.

The majority of Michigan sportsbooks have increased the Browns’ chances of winning their division compared to the Baltimore Ravens. These odds are typically +450 across most sportsbooks and +420 at FanDuel Sportsbook.

According to oddsmakers, the Browns are considered to have an average likelihood of winning the conference. PointsBet currently offers the highest payout at +1500, while Caesars offers the lowest at +850.

Extra points

• The Browns have a few players on their team who played college football in Michigan. Among them are DT Malik McDowell, who attended Michigan State, WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, who played for the University of Michigan, and T Jack Conklin, who also played for Michigan State.
• The stadium is called First Energy Stadium and it is located in Cleveland, Ohio.
• The distance to Ford Field is 172 miles, which takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes to travel.
• The team’s history dates back to 1944 when it was awarded a franchise as a charter member of the AAFC. Their inaugural season took place in 1946, and eventually, the team merged with the NFL in 1950.
• The NFL clinched four championships in the years 1950, 1954-55, and 1964.
• Head-to-head record: Lions lead 19-5-0 (Cleveland suffered defeats at the hands of Detroit while competing for two out of their three championships in 1952 and 1953. Conversely, Cleveland emerged victorious against Detroit, securing their 1954 title.)
• The upcoming opponents are as follows: playing at New England, facing Detroit at home, playing at Baltimore, followed by a bye week. After the bye, they will face Baltimore again, then Las Vegas at home, followed by playing at Green Bay, at Pittsburgh, and finally facing Cincinnati at home.

4. Dallas Cowboys (6-2, 1st in NFC East)

Make a team switch now and don’t miss out on your annual Thanksgiving Day plans, as Detroit and Dallas continue to be the dynamic hosts for this holiday.

Have we mentioned that Dallas is leading its division?

After suffering a humiliating 30-16 defeat against the Broncos in Week 9, the Cowboys are determined to make a strong comeback with a vengeance befitting their Texan spirit. Moreover, were you able to witness Cooper Rush’s impressive performance in the absence of Dak Prescott the previous week? The talented player hailing from Central Michigan showcased his skills by completing 24 passes out of 40 attempts, resulting in an impressive 325 yards, two touchdowns, and a single interception. This outstanding display led the Cowboys to a triumphant victory over the Vikings in Minnesota, with a final score of 20-16.

Why wouldn’t the newest members of Dallas Cowboys United love it? We have shared traditions, familiar faces, and a real chance to win a ring!

Concerned about running out of conversation topics with your new friends? Just mention Calvin, Dez, and Catches. Instant connection!

Go and get yourself a hat and polish those cowboy boots, partner!

Cowboys definitely have a chance at Super Bowl title

The Super Bowl odds for Dallas at all Michigan sportsbooks are set at +1200.

Choosing your new team as the divisional winner yields less financial gain, with a significant range in numbers. DraftKings Sportsbook presents the most favorable odds for an NFC East divisional victory at -1600, closely followed by FanDuel’s -1700 offering.

According to the latest odds from BetMGM and PointsBet, they believe it is highly likely. The odds are set at -3333 and -4000, giving bettors the opportunity to win $2.50 to $3 on a $100 bet.

The Cowboys are ranked among the top five contenders to win the conference, according to oddsmakers. Caesars provides the most substantial payout at +1300, whereas FanDuel offers the lowest payout at +500.

Extra Points

• The following individuals played college football in Michigan and are now professional Cowboys: Jourdan Lewis, who was a cornerback at the University of Michigan; Sean McKeon, who played as a tight end for the University of Michigan; and Cooper Rush, who was a quarterback at Central Michigan University.
• The stadium, known as AT&T Stadium, is located in Arlington, Texas.
• The distance from Ford Field is 1,204 miles, which would take approximately 18 hours and 8 minutes to travel.
• The league was established in the year of 1960.
• Super Bowl triumphs: Victories in 1972, 1978, 1993, 1994, and 1996
• Head-to-head record between the Lions and Cowboys stands at 17 wins for the Cowboys, 12 wins for the Lions. Notably, the Lions made sporadic appearances in the postseason, three of which were against the Cowboys. In 1992, the Lions emerged victorious with a score of 38-6 in the divisional round, while in 1970, they faced defeat with a score of 5-0, again in the divisional round. The Lions also suffered a loss in a Wild Card game against the Cowboys in 2015, with a final score of 24-20.
• Here is the rewritten version: <br><br>The upcoming games are against Atlanta, Kansas City, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Washington, New York, Washington again, Arizona, and Philadelphia.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-3, 2nd in AFC North)

Sunday might become uncomfortable, however, supporters from Detroit will seamlessly blend in with the people of Pittsburgh, another industrious city renowned for its determination. In truth, Pittsburgh is even more synonymous with a blue-collar work ethic than Detroit!

Do you recall the immense joy experienced by metro-Detroiters when the Steelers visited our town for Super Bowl XL? These two fan communities are akin to football relatives, and it’s worth noting that the Steelers have a notable number of players with college football experience in Michigan.

Despite claims that Pittsburgh is facing challenges and their quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is dealing with three injuries this week, one should never underestimate a team under the guidance of head coach Mike Tomlin. Throughout his 14 seasons, the Steelers have consistently excelled, making the playoffs nine times, reaching two Super Bowls (emerging victorious in one), and remarkably maintaining a winning record without a single losing season.

Newbie to Steelers Nation, make sure to get hold of that Terrible Towel and get ready for a potentially substantial reward.

Pittsburgh bandwagon bettors stand to win big

The most potentially lucrative bet on this list is to wager on Pittsburgh to emerge as the ultimate winner. Michigan sportsbooks present a variety of odds, ranging from +4500 at FanDuel to +5500 at PointsBet. Alternatively, Caesars, BetMGM, and BetRivers Sportsbook provide odds of +5000.

The Steelers have odds of +550 to win the AFC North from DraftKings and Caesars, while PointsBet has the lowest offer for a divisional win at +450.

The Steelers hold a conference-title odds ranking of approximately 10th place, with odds ranging from +2000 (Caesars) to +2500 (BetMGM, PointsBet, and BetRivers).

The Steelers are expected to be the favored team for Sunday’s game against their unnamed opponent, with odds ranging from 7.5 to 9 points. BetMGM currently shows the Lions at +8.5 points, along with a +300 moneyline, while the Steelers have a -385 moneyline.

The game’s over/under, as projected by BetMGM and FanDuel, stands at 42.5.

Extra Points

• The following Steelers players have played college football in Michigan: LB Devin Bush from the University of Michigan, DE Taco Charlton from the University of Michigan, TE Zach Gentry from the University of Michigan, and CB Justin Layne from Michigan State University.
• Chukwuma Okorator, a linebacker from Western Michigan, is joined by Robert Spillane, another linebacker from the same university. Cody White, a wide receiver from Michigan State, and Chris Wormley, a defensive lineman from Michigan, complete the roster.
• Stadium: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh
• The distance to Ford Field is approximately 285 miles, which takes around 5 hours to travel.
• The league’s history dates back to 1933 when it was established under the name Pirates, a title it held until the 1940 season.
• Super Bowl Victories: 1975, 1976, 1979, 1980, 2006, and 2009
• All-time vs. Lions: 17-14-1
• Here is the rewritten version: <br><br>Upcoming matches: against Detroit, away against Los Angeles Chargers, away against Cincinnati, against Baltimore, away against Minnesota, against Tennessee, away against Kansas City, against Cleveland, and away against Baltimore.

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-2, 1st in NFC South)

Despite causing eye-rolling among approximately half of football fans from Michigan, it is evident that the Bucs are a clear secondary choice.

The division-leading team in the Super Bowl, who are also the reigning champions, are led by the exceptional Tom Brady. Despite the negativity from haters, Brady is bound to emerge victorious.

If you decide to become a Tampa Bay taker, you can expect to experience a pleasant initial period this week due to the recent 36-27 defeat against the Saints, which has stirred up excitement among the fan base.

Brady’s comeback drive, which felt like a classic Brady moment, unfortunately concluded with a heartbreaking loss as he threw an interception. This interception ultimately led to a New Orleans touchdown.

Oh no! Seek shelter, Washington Football Team.

Hop on the Bucs bandwagon to enjoy Brady’s hilarious dad jokes, and stick around for Bruce Arians’ amusing sense of humor.

While you’re occupied making avocado ice cream and searching for sunblock in Detroit, leave the odds research to us.

Bucs top Michigan sportsbooks’ choice for Super Bowl win

According to recent oddsmakers, Tampa Bay is predicted to narrowly beat Buffalo and secure Tom’s eighth ring. Both FanDuel and BetRivers are offering odds of +550, while the remaining bookmakers have set it at +600.

Tampa Bay is the overwhelming frontrunner to emerge victorious in the NFC South, with odds ranging from -650 on FanDuel to -800 on DraftKings. BetMGM places it at -667, while BetRivers sets it slightly lower at -670.

Recent odds ranging from +260 to +300 indicate that the Bucs are strong contenders for winning the NFC this season. Caesars Sportsbook boasts the highest bid, while BetRivers has the lowest.

Extra Points

• The Buccaneers have a lineup of players who honed their skills in Michigan during their college years. Among them are quarterback Tom Brady from the University of Michigan, wide receiver Antonio Brown from Central Michigan University, defensive lineman William Gholston from Michigan State University, defensive lineman Patrick O’Connor from Eastern Michigan University, and cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting from Central Michigan University.
• Stadium: Located in Tampa, Florida, Raymond James Stadium.
• The distance from Ford Field is 1,178 miles, which takes approximately 16 hours and 34 minutes to travel.
• The league’s inception dates back to 1974, and it officially kicked off its first season in 1976.
• Super Bowl Victories: One in 2003, Another in 2021
• All-time vs. Lions: 29-31-0
• The remaining opponents on the schedule are as follows: playing at Washington, hosting New York, visiting Indianapolis, traveling to Atlanta, facing Buffalo at home, welcoming New Orleans, going to Carolina, playing at New York, and hosting Carolina.

1. Los Angeles Rams (7-2, 2nd in NFC West)

You can’t deny that you’re secretly devouring every Matthew Stafford stat, silently begging your superiors: If not for the Lions, at least let Matthew have that championship ring.

Stafford & Co. have a viable chance to reach the Super Bowl, and No. 9 is excelling. As we approach Week 10, Stafford stands as the league’s leading passer with 2,771 yards, surpassing Brady (2,650), Derek Carr (2,565), and Patrick Mahomes (2,534). It is undoubtedly the right course of action.

Stafford is considered a strong candidate for the top five MVP contenders, with his odds ranging from +300 to +800. He trails behind Brady, Jared Allen, and Kyler Murray.

In recent seasons, the Rams’ fan base has significantly grown, offering you the opportunity to connect with a lively new group of friends while enjoying the West Coast. Interestingly, it seems that Mr. Stafford and the Rams will also be welcoming a new friend as they add WR Odell Beckham Jr. to their team. Let’s not overlook the fact that the Super Bowl contenders also made a trade for linebacker Von Miller just last week.

As you search for the contrast between DisneyWorld and Disneyland, let us check out the most recent Rams odds provided by Michigan sportsbooks.

Rams trail Bucs, Bills as Super Bowl favorites

The odds for the Rams to win the Super Bowl vary from +750 (Caesars, FanDuel, and PointsBet) to +800 (BetMGM and BetRivers).

The Cardinals are currently the favorites to win the NFC West crown, with the Rams being the second-favorites. Among different betting platforms, FanDuel offers the highest payout at +195, followed closely by DraftKings at +190. BetMGM has the lowest payout for this outcome, offering +150.

For conference title odds, L.A. trails only Tampa Bay, receiving odds of +350 from FanDuel and BetMGM, +650 from Caesars, and +400 from all other sources.

Extra Points

• Two Rams players who honed their skills in Michigan during their college years are OL Brian Allen from Michigan State and CB David Long Jr. from the University of Michigan.
• Stadium: Los Angeles Coliseum
• Ford Field is located 2,287 miles away, which would take approximately 32 hours to reach.
• The league’s history dates back to its founding on February 12, 1937, under the name of the Cleveland Rams. Subsequently, it relocated to Los Angeles in 1946, then moved to St. Louis in 1995, and finally returned to Los Angeles once again in 2016.
• The NFL Championships were won in 1945 and 1951, and the team went on to win the Super Bowl in 2000.
• All-time vs. Lions: 45-41-1
• The remaining opponents include playing against San Francisco, having a bye week, facing Green Bay, Jacksonville, Arizona, Seattle, Minnesota, Baltimore, and ending with a game against San Francisco.