Detroit News predictions: Lions vs. Bears

Josh Katzenstein: This Lions team is much more composed than last year's, so don't call for the collapse just yet. Of course, the Thanksgiving game could be a lot closer than it should be. The Bears will be able to score, but look for Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate to torch their terrible secondary, providing some brief optimism in the flawed offense. Lions 23-17

Rod Beard: The Lions need to stay on track for the playoffs, with little margin for error down the stretch. The next four games — each against a team with a losing record — look favorable, but the Lions don't have the luxury of looking ahead. The Bears have been playing better and the Lions have regressed in recent weeks, but this is one that the home fans at Thanksgiving have been looking beyond. This one will be close, but Lions fans can enjoy dinner after the game. Lions 24-20

Bob Wojnowski: The Lions had better get used to the heat, because this is the first of three straight must-wins at home. The Bears have regrouped a bit and their defense is playing better. But if you have any idea what to expect from Jay Cutler — or from Matthew Stafford — you're smarter than I am. In the comfort of Ford Field, Stafford should be sharper and the Lions defense should knock the stuffing out of Cutler. Lions 24-13

John Niyo: The Bears defense is probably just what Matthew Stafford & Co. need right now. And if you saw any of Chicago's victory over Tampa last week, you know that team is still mostly a mess. Limit turnovers and this one could be a runaway. Lions 31-17