Despite a Vegas line that’s pushing 10 points, the 1-2 Cleveland Browns will be no pushover for the 2-1 Detroit Lions. The Browns have arguably the best defense in the league, and the Lions know they will have to bring their best on Sunday to avoid an upset.
“They can really cut it loose, and with that front four, they play fast, penetrating-style defense,” Lions coach Dan Campbell said on Friday. “So, they know first down’s big for them, they’re looking for second-and-longs and that’s when they really have a lot of success. So yes, first down’s going to be big for us. We cannot get behind the sticks. We’ve got to stay in the green because if not, it’ll be a long day.”
In order to contend with that defense—and find success against the Browns offense—the Lions will need some big performances from individuals. So today’s Question of the Day is:
Who are the Lions’ key players vs. the Browns?
My answer: The most obvious answer is Taylor Decker. Seeing as Browns defensive end Myles Garrett is capable of creating chaos on every play, the Lions will need an answer for him. Garrett typically lines up over the left tackle, making him Decker’s responsibility for most of Sunday. He’ll almost certainly have help in the form of a tight end or even an additional lineman, but Decker will be the biggest factor in slowing Garrett. Hopefully, Decker’s shoulder injury will not be too limiting this week.
Elsewhere, I think DJ Reader will be a key player on defense. With the Browns finding some recent success on the ground with rookie running back Quinshon Judkins, the defensive key for the Lions will be to stop the run. While Reader doesn’t rack up the stats, he’s been playing very well this year, and the Lions’ run defense has benefited.
“The things he’s able to do in the run game, but even in the pass game too,” Campbell said. “He keeps people off our backers, and if not, then he’s the guy making the play. And he’s consistent, he’s just consistent, and he’s a force in there. And it’s been big, I mean it really has. He’s another one of those players that’s like, ‘Man, don’t ever take that guy for granted,’ because he does a lot of things for us.”
Which Lions players do you think are key to a victory over the Browns? Scroll down to the comment section and offer your picks.
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