What Can the Lions Do to Keep Playoff Hopes High?
The Detroit Lions will host a division rival, the Minnesota Vikings, on Sunday. Coming off a bye week, they look to improve their record to 6-2. J.J. McCarthy is expected to play after Carson Wentz suffered a season-ending left shoulder injury earlier in the season. Wentz continued to play on it and eventually wore it out, leaving him to sit out the rest of the season.
The offensive line for this Lions team will have to hold strong against this aggressive, blitz-heavy Vikings defense led by Danielle Hunter. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores has always been known for his defensive schemes and for challenging the quarterback. John Morton, offensive coordinator for the Lions, will make sure that their offensive schemes revolve around getting the ball out quickly. Jared Goff has done a good job so far this season, getting the ball out quickly and making sure his receivers have room to run.
Quick reads and short passes early should neutralize the amount of pressure that Flores sends at the Lions. Although Goff’s efficiency drops under heavy pressure, he will be able to work in rhythm and out of the play-action. Once the running game gets going for this offense, there are no limits to what Goff is capable of. The play-action will come with the emphasis on the run game, which is where the Lions' scheme succeeds.
Newly signed defensive end for the Lions, Aidan Hutchinson, will lead the defensive attack in this game. They will need to pressure the Vikings early and often, especially since the game will be played in a brand new environment for McCarthy. The defense will look to hold Aaron Jones strictly to the run game. Once he gets involved in the passing game, it unlocks multiple doors for McCarthy to succeed. The quick outs and slants from Minnesota receivers also help J.J. feel more comfortable in the pocket.
Minnesota’s offense thrives on big gains, deep balls, and yards after the catch. The Lions' secondary will have their hands full this game with star receivers all over the field. They must stay disciplined and finish the plays with tackles in space. If they can keep McCarthy in the pocket and bottled up, they will have a very strong chance of winning this game.
Early touchdowns and strong drives will set the tone for this Lions team and keep the stadium’s energy full. Detroit has often times started slow in games, so starting early could be a way to flip that narrative and come out with the win from the kickoff. They need to close out the game strong, with no penalties or chances of a comeback. In any division game, there is always a chance of a wild ending.
