Amon-Ra St. Brown Calls for Rule Change as Lions Face High-Stakes Clash with Vikings

DETROIT – As the Detroit Lions prepare for one of the most crucial regular-season games in franchise history, star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown has voiced his opinion on what he sees as an unfair NFL playoff rule.

The Lions, boasting an impressive 14-2 record, will host the 14-2 Minnesota Vikings this Sunday night at Ford Field. The high-stakes matchup will determine the NFC’s No. 1 seed and a first-round bye. A win secures home-field advantage throughout the playoffs for Detroit, while a loss drops them to the No. 5 seed, forcing them to begin their postseason run on the road.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, January 2, 2025, St. Brown expressed his frustration with the current playoff structure.

“It’s crazy,” St. Brown said. “I mean, I think the rule should be changed. Obviously, if you win the division, you should make a playoff spot. But having a 14-win team having to go on the road is kind of crazy. I guess I don’t make the rules, so hopefully, we can get a win and get home-field advantage. But whatever happens, we both have a spot in the playoffs, so we might see each other again after this game.”

St. Brown’s comments reflect growing sentiment across the league that the current system, which prioritizes division winners for home playoff games regardless of record, may need revisiting. A potential rule change could ensure that higher-performing teams aren’t disadvantaged despite exceptional regular-season records.

The Lions, eager to secure their first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history, face additional pressure due to mounting injuries and a grueling schedule that hasn’t afforded them a bye week since Week 5 in early October. St. Brown acknowledged the significance of a first-round bye, which would provide much-needed rest and recovery time heading into the postseason.

“We’ve been grinding all season without a break, and a win here would mean a lot for us physically and mentally,” St. Brown added.

Detroit enters the matchup as slight favorites, thanks to the home-field advantage and a passionate fan base expected to pack Ford Field to capacity. A victory would not only cement their status as NFC frontrunners but also provide a smoother path through the playoffs.

Regardless of Sunday’s outcome, both the Lions and Vikings are guaranteed postseason berths, setting the stage for a potential rematch deeper in January. For now, Detroit’s focus remains squarely on securing that crucial win and ensuring the road to the Super Bowl runs through the Motor City.