The Detroit Lions will host the Tennessee Titans this weekend in what should be a very interesting game. The Lions just defeated the Vikings, demonstrating that their offense can score against one of the league’s top defenses. The offense put up 31 points and has now put up 30 points in three straight games against Minnesota. Following their defeat against the Colts, the Titans will not only be without their starting quarterback yet again but also DeAndre Hopkins, who was just traded to the Chiefs. Even though the Detroit Lions should have no trouble winning this game, there are three things they must do to ensure victory.
Stop the Titans Run Game
Although the Titans passing offense isn’t very strong, Tony Pollard leads them in a strong run game. Pollard has been excellent lately, surpassing 80 yards in two of his last three games and averaging 67 yards per game on 4.3 yards per carry this season. Last Sunday, the Detroit Lions run defense, which has long been a strength, struggled against Aaron Jones. They demonstrated how much they missed Aidan Hutchinson in the run by giving up 93 yards to Jones on only 14 carries. If the Detroit Lions can prevent Pollard from having another big game, they should be able to hold the Titans to a very small number of points.
Keep Goff Protected in the Pocket
Despite their lackluster offense, the Titans boast a strong defense, particularly up front. For most of the season, the Lions offensive line has been a strength, but last week they had trouble. Jared Goff frequently had to make quick decisions and was constantly under pressure the entire game. While the Titans defensive line may not be as good as the Vikings, they can still get to the QB efficiently led by Jeffery Simmons and Harold Landry III. If the Detroit Lions want to continue to play the way they have been, they will need to protect Goff and keep the pocket clean throughout the entire game.
Get Pressure On Mason Rudolph
The Lions first complete game without Aidan Hutchinson came last week, and it was clear they missed him. Sam Darnold had plenty of time in the pocket and was able to make all his reads on many plays. Only 15 times could the Lions put pressure on Darnold, which is the same number of times Hutchinson alone put pressure on Geno Smith in Week 4. This Sunday, the Lions will probably have to make do with what they already have because they still haven’t made a move for a pass rusher.
General Manager Brad Holmes will likely take one more look at what they have and will look for them to have a big game. If the Detroit Lions want to win, the pass rush will have to step up and demonstrate that they can consistently put pressure on the quarterback.