It is not too often that we talk about our Detroit Lions and “getting lucky” in the same conversation. In fact, over the years, it sure does seem like the Lions have been the most unlucky team in the NFL. Well, according to some stats posted by NFL Football Ops Data Scientist Tom Bliss, the Lions were one of the luckiest teams in the NFL during the 2022 season that saw them finish with a 9-8 record.
Why it Matters
Regarding sports, luck can certainly play a role when looking at the outcome of certain games. And when there are only 17 games in a season, as there are in the NFL, being one of the luckiest teams in the league can stand out when looking at the final standings.
Here are the Top 8 luckiest teams in the NFL, according to Bliss’s ‘Net Win Probability Added’ chart, which takes dropped interceptions, passes, field goals and extra points, and fumble recoveries into account.
- New York Giants
- Washington Commanders
- New York Jets
- Jacksonville Jaguars
- Minnesota Vikings
- Detroit Lions
- New Orleans Saints
- San Francisco 49ers
Net Win Probability Added: By The Numbers
As you can see in the chart below, the Lions had luck on their side when it came to the following areas:
- Dropped interceptions by the opponent (+0.27)
- Dropped passes by the opponent (+0.25)
- Field goals and extra points attempted by the opponent (+0.24)
- Overall, the Lions came in at +0.75, which ranks them as the sixth-luckiest team in 2022
In case you were wondering, the Buffalo Bills were by far the most unlucky team in the entire NFL in 2022.
Here is the full chart for your viewing pleasure:
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