The Detroit Lions need a bounce-back game this week, not only to try and keep pace in a competitive division and conference, but also to regain the trust and hope of fans. The last few performances—particularly on offense—have not been inspired, and it has left many wondering how big a step back Detroit has taken due to the losses on the offensive line and Ben Johnson.
But this Washington Commanders team seems like the perfect opponent to respond in a big way. They’re losers of four straight, are struggling to stay healthy, and they rank 23rd in scoring defense, allowing 26.2 points per game.
If the Lions are going to get back on track, they’ll need some standout performances from individual players. So today’s Question of the Day is:
Which Lions player is key to victory over the Commanders?
My answer: Jahmyr Gibbs.
While the Commanders are pretty stout in the middle of their defense, making standard between-the-tackles runs a poor option this week, Washington is vulnerable on the edges. With so many injuries to their defensive ends, the Commanders have done a poor job of maintaining containment. Detroit should pepper the Commanders with a healthy dose of outside zone, tosses, or even some reverses.
If the Lions can finally manage to increase Gibbs’ impact in the passing game, that’s even better. The Commanders currently rank 26th in DVOA allowed to running backs in the passing game. Case in point: Bears running back D’Andre Swift had 67 receiving yards and a touchdown against the Commanders a few weeks ago.
Defensively, it will be on the Lions to stop Washington’s run game. Jack Campbell should be a key player to not only fill his run gap assignments, but to make sure Marcus Mariota doesn’t beat them with his feet.
Which Lions player do you think is key to a victory on Sunday? Share your thoughts in the comment section at the bottom of the page.
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