Though they’re somewhat overlooked due to the record-breaking seasons both the Saints and Packers offense have produced, the Lions feature one of the more explosive attacks in the NFL. Quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for over 5,000 yards this year, many of them to his favorite target Calvin Johnson. The Saints defense has been hot and cold all year; they’ll need to bring their A game to keep this high-octane Lions offense in check.
Lions Passing Offense
Now in his third year in the NFL, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford recorded a stellar season this year, throwing for 5,038 yards and 41 touchdowns and leading his squad to their first playoff appearance in over a decade.
His favorite target, Calvin Johnson, caught 96 balls for 1681 yards and 17 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of, if not, the premier wide receiver in the league. Johnson is not only a deep threat due to his speed, but also has a freakish leaping ability that makes him especially dangerous on fade routes in the red zone.
Stafford’s other primary weapons are wide receiver Nate Burleson and tight end Brandon, Pettigrew, who caught 76 and 83 balls respectively. Look for Detroit to throw early and often and to not shy away from going deep and giving their crew of talented receivers a chance to make a big play.
For the Saints, the pressure will fall on a secondary that has been lukewarm throughout the year. Free safety Malcolm Jenkins will have his hands full in deep coverage. Cornerbacks Jabari Greer and Patrick Robinson will need to not only play the ball well, but prevent the Lions receivers from breaking long runs after the catch.
Lions Rushing Offense
Ranked 29th in rushing, the Lions have struggled on the ground since losing Jhavid Best to a concussion early in the season. Currently, veteran running back Kevin Smith is the starter. He’s a solid rusher, also capable of catching the ball out of the backfield. The Saints defensive front should be able to contain the Lions running game. Look for linebacker Jonathan Vilma and strong safety Roman Harper to be particularly active on stopping the Lions on the ground.
Matchup to Watch: Calvin Johnson v. Saints Secondary
Johnson is coming off a massive 200-yard-plus effort against Green Bay. He and Stafford are brimming with confidence and the Saints secondary will have their handful reining them it.
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