Magic 8 ball predictions for the 2024 Detroit Lions

Mattel's Magic 8 Ball has been making predictions since 1946. We ran a few questions about the Detroit Lions by one, and the results were mostly positive.

For those unfamiliar with the concept, users ask yes-no questions to the ball, give it a shake and then turn it over to reveal the answer. We opted for an online version to ask the following:

Are the Lions the most complete team in the NFC?

Magic 8 Ball says: Don't count on it

There aren't many glaring weaknesses on the Lions roster heading into the 2024 campaign. However, it's still hard to call them the most complete team, even in the NFC.

The reigning conference champion San Francisco 49ers return virtually unchanged, even with the Brandon Aiyuk saga hanging in the air. Meanwhile, there's also the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs to consider.

In a recent breakdown of the NFL's most complete teams, Jack McKessy ranked the Lions fourth behind the Baltimore Ravens, 49ers and Chiefs. Detroit is among the top tier of contenders, sporting the third-best offense in the NFL along with an improved defense, but as far as depth, they aren't quite at the tippy top yet.

Will Jared Goff be even better in 2024?

Magic 8 Ball says: It is certain

Goff is coming off arguably his best year in a Lions uniform. Though, the second-leading passer in the NFL last season could be even better in 2024.

One significant reason is continuity. Not only will this be Goff's third season playing in offensive coordinator Ben Johnson's system, but he'll have another year to gel with wideouts Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams and tight end Sam LaPorta.

Meanwhile, Goff finished with the sixth-most pass attempts to running backs last season. That trend should only continue, especially if second-year back Jahmyr Gibbs' role expands after recording 52 catches for 316 yards and a touchdown during his rookie year.

Will the Lions defense improve?

Magic 8 Ball says: Without a doubt

The defense was a primary focus for general manager Brad Holmes this offseason after the unit ranked 19th in the NFL in 2023. Upgrades may not transform Detroit into a top-10 unit, but there's reason to believe they'll see a significant improvement.

Along the defensive line, edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson leads a group that carries a lot of promise, especially if Marcus Davenport, James Houston and free-agent acquisition nose tackle D.J. Reader can stay healthy. Meanwhile, the most significant change came in the secondary, where the Lions added versatile veteran cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Amik Robertson, along with first-round picks Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw, who will compete for starting snaps.

Is it Super Bowl or bust for the Lions?

Magic 8 Ball says: Yes

At the start of each season, every NFL team's goal is to hoist the Lombardi Trophy, whether realistic or not. But therein lies the difference between the Lions and most of the league-they have a genuine shot at winning it all.

The Lions may be on the come-up, but the championship window closes fast. Since 2014, the 49ers are the only team to lose the NFC Championship Game before earning a trip to the Super Bowl the following year, doing so last season.