League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

ESPN simulation projects Detroit Lions winning the 2026 Super Bowl

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 7, 2026, 2:30 PM

Last updated Sep 7, 2026

ESPN simulation projects Detroit Lions winning the 2026 Super Bowl

Summary

The ESPN Football Power Index, a predictive modeling system, recently generated a simulation of the 2026 NFL season. The specific run, identified as simulation No. 9,187, projects the Detroit Lions to secure a 13-4 record and enter the playoffs as the NFC's second seed. According to the scenario, the team wins postseason contests against the Packers, Cowboys, and Rams before taking the Super Bowl title against the Los Angeles Chargers. The simulation outcome concludes with a 42-yard field goal by Jake Bates as time expires to seal a 33-31 victory. While the Lions reach the league championship, the model anticipates a 6-11 finish for the Chicago Bears. The simulation also credits Aidan Hutchinson with the Defensive Player of the Year award.

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By the Numbers

•Simulation No. 9,187 predicts the Detroit Lions finish with an NFL-best 13-4 record.
•The Detroit Lions postseason path includes wins over the Packers, Cowboys, and Rams.
•Jake Bates kicks a game-winning 42-yard field goal in the Super Bowl against the Los Angeles Chargers.
•Aidan Hutchinson is projected to win Defensive Player of the Year in this scenario.
•The Chicago Bears are projected to finish the season with a 6-11 record.

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