Lions Playoff Game Expected To Give Detroit Big Economic Boost

DETROIT — The Detroit Lions' Saturday night playoff can bring millions to the city, accordion to a Michigan economic consulting firm.

An analysis from the Anderson Economic Group LLC, based in East Lansing, shows that fans expenditures will have a direct economic impact of $39.3 million, plus an indirect impact of $25.5 million.

Combined the impact will total $64.8 million, according to the economic group.

The direct economic impact comes from game tickets, parking fees and Lions merchandise sales. The indirect impact includes purchases from entities, such as restaurants to feed fans, or people who travel to Detroit for the game and stay in hotels.

"The indirect economic impact from increased consumption at retail establishments around Detroit will extend past Saturday’s game," Vice President and Director of Public Policy at the Anderson Economic Group Tyler Theile said. "Beyond the immediate benefits, the momentum of the Detroit Lions is another example of a positive national spotlight on the city that will enhance its reputation as a vibrant destination, creating long-term opportunities for tourism and economic development."

The Lions host the Washington Commanders in the Divisional round of the NFC playoffs. The Lions are nearly double-digit favorites to win the game. The winner will play in the NFC Championship, and if it's the Lions, it will be the first time the Lions would host the title game.

Additionally, the game is now the most expensive non-Super Bowl NFL game on record with an average purchase price of $991, according to TickPick.

Here is a breakdown of the top ten most expensive NFL playoff games on record outside of the Super Bowl by average purchase price:

1. (1/18/25) NFC Divisional Game: Lions Vs. Commanders = $991
2. (1/21/24) NFC Divisional Game: Lions Vs. Bucs = $948
3. (1/14/24) NFC Wild Card Game: Lions Vs. Rams = $694
4. (1/22/23) NFC Divisional Game: 49ers Vs. Cowboys = $618
5. (1/21/23) NFC Divisional Game: Eagles Vs. Giants = $589
6. (1/22/17) AFC Conference Championship Game: Patriots Vs. Steelers = $565
7. (1/19/25) NFC Divisional Game: Eagles Vs. Rams = $519
8. (1/17/21) AFC Divisional Game: Chiefs Vs. Browns = $448
9. (1/24/16) AFC Conference Championship Game: Broncos Vs. Patriots = $434
10. (1/20/24) NFC Divisional Game: 49ers Vs. Packers = $433