The Green Bay Packers believe they've come a long way since they last faced the Detroit Lions nearly a month ago. They get a chance to prove it Thursday when they visit Detroit to close a stretch of three games in 12 days.

Although the Packers (9-3) have put themselves in good shape to earn a playoff berth by winning three straight and seven of their last eight, they remain two games behind the Lions (11-1) and a half-game behind Minnesota (9-2) in the NFC North. They also already lost at home to both teams.

Since Week 4, the Packers' only loss has come at the hands of the Lions. They'll go at it again Thursday night.

The Detroit Lions continue to pace the NFC at 11-1, but after cruising to a win over the Miami Dolphins on Thanksgiving night, the Green Bay Packers are still very much alive in the NFC North race — with another shot at Detroit up next.