NFL Power Rankings: Cardinals rise, Packers fall in Week 17

Dec 27, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (81) turns with the ball during the fourth quarter as San Francisco 49ers inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman (53) looks on at Ford Field. Lions win 32-17. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

22. DETROIT LIONS (6-9)

Last week: 23
Change: +1

The Detroit Lions played a little offense again, this time in the 32-17 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. Matthew Stafford threw for 301 yards and two touchdowns in what became a very comfortable victory.

The Lions move to 6-9 with the win, with a game to play with the Chicago Bears in Week 17 for third place. After an 0-5 start, winning six of 10 can be considered a good result. There are pieces in place to turn the fortunes around next season, but they will need a strong offseason.

The defense struggled early in the year but has bounced back well in second half of the season. Offensively, there is plenty of talent at the skill positions, but the offensive line needs some help. Can Ameer Abdullah be the bell-cow back? The Lions certainly don’t seem to trust him in that role right now, so maybe another dive into the draft at the position will be beneficial.

If the Lions can find a power back to complement Abdullah’s speed, as well as some reinforcements to the offensive line, the offense could closer resemble its 2013-self next year.

Next: No. 21