Three Biggest Games: Detroit Lions
Year after year, the Detroit Lions have proven themselves to be one of the most unpredictable, streaky, yet entertaining teams to watch. When in sync, the offense bombards its’ opposition with weapons, and the defensive unit is among the league’s best. But when things go awry from the get-go, it can turn into a tough afternoon for Lions fans. 2015 is shaping up as another step in the right direction on paper, but Detroit must stifle the inconsistency to be a true force in the NFC.
Week 4 at Seattle Seahawks
It could be argued that the Lions’ first test doesn’t come until week 4, when the team travels to the Pacific Northwest to take on the defending conference champion Seahawks at the Clink. Detroit plays Denver on Sunday Night Football the week before in an intriguing matchup, but where the Broncos appear to be on the downswing, the Seahawks are only just gearing up for another Super Bowl run. Russell Wilson could be made to look foolish against an athletic linebacking corps – headed by tackling machine DeAndre Levy – built to stifle the ground game.
Week 10 at Green Bay Packers
The equation is simple: if the Lions want any hope of contending for the NFC North division title this year, they must at least split the season series with the Packers. Chicago is entering a rebuilding year, and Minnesota is constructing something interesting but doesn’t have all the pieces quite yet. By all accounts, it should come down to these two polar opposite franchises to decide who earns the right to host at least one playoff game. A win at treacherous Lambeau Field puts Detroit in the driver’s seat for the division crown before a week 13 grudge match at home on Thursday Night Football, in front of what should be a rabid crowd.
Week 12 vs. Philadelphia Eagles
In recent years, the Lions have never failed to turn up the heat on Thanksgiving, but this year they face a team that has also made a habit of head-turning victories on this wonderful national holiday. The Eagles will have answered many of their offseason questions – for better or for worse – by week 12, but many are expecting a high-octane offensive display between one of the league’s few remaining gunslingers and one of its most creative offensive minds. Regardless of who stoops under center for the Eagles, rest assured Chip Kelly’s quick-fire offense will be entirely operational. With so much reliance placed on running up the score, look for Detroit’s Ziggy Ansah or Philly’s Kiko Alonso to make the momentum-turning splash play on defense that seals the win.
