DETROIT – It will be a busy weekend downtown as the Detroit Lions will be taking on the Washington Commanders inside Ford Field for the NFC Divisional Round at 8 p.m.

The Detroit Pistons will host the Phoenix Suns at Little Caesars Arena at 4 p.m. on Saturday (Jan. 18), and the Detroit Auto Show is still taking place at Huntington Place.

“We look at Ford Field alone, you’re talking 65,000-plus. You probably have another about 20,000 over at LCA. You have the auto show, so every bit of 100,000 plus. But also think about the bars and restaurants, those that want to come downtown be a part of the fun, excitement,” said DPD Commander Matthew Fulgenzi.

Landon Chamberlain will be in the mix.

“It’s going to be crazy. I think I am going to do the auto show tomorrow. My parents are coming down for the game as well. So, we are going to have a nice day in Detroit. But yeah, if anyone wants to do something in Detroit, there is something for them tomorrow,” Chamberlain said.

Detroit police know how to handle huge crowds. Last year’s NFL draft is proof of that.

DPD describes their approach for Saturday as multi-layered. The department is increasing staffing and partnering with several different agencies.

Uniformed and undercover officers will be keeping watch. At DPD headquarters, a team will be monitoring cameras.

“We want to ensure the safety of all guests. So, if someone does come downtown and gets out of line, you’ll have a number of officers to address that immediately and hold someone accountable if necessary. But our goal is to ensure everyone’s safe and has a great time in the downtown footprint,” Fulgenzi said.

Detroit police warn drivers to expect traffic delays with the crowds.

They also encourage drivers not to leave valuables in plain sight in their vehicles in parking lots.

Chamberlain is hoping that the Lions end the night with a win.

“It’s been a long time coming. Detroit needs this one. The Commanders are coming in here weak,” Chamberlain said.