Lions’ Resilience Put to the Test

The Detroit Lions are known for their slow starts, but last week's loss in Green Bay was more than just a hiccup; it was a wake-up call. Fortunately for fans, the Lions excel at bouncing back, boasting ten consecutive wins following a defeat dating back to October 2022. With a limited number of 'no-show' games in recent seasons, there's a buzz of optimism in Detroit—this team is built on competition and toughness.

Head Coach Dan Campbell encapsulated this spirit perfectly: "What fuels my tank is losing. We don’t like it, so we go back to the basics and hit it head-on. We’re all accountable, and if we want to win, we’ve got to do the little things right. That’s what gets me going.”

The Stakes of the Home Opener

This week, the Lions face an important divisional rival in the Chicago Bears, now coached by former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as both teams seek their footing.

Caleb Williams: The Wildcard

The standout from the Bears' victory over Minnesota wasn't just Johnson's scheme but the undeniable talent of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. His ability to improvise and create plays on the run was a game changer. Williams recorded six scrambles, 58 rushing yards, and a touchdown, making him a significant threat.

However, the Lions' defense has struggled to contain mobile quarterbacks. Last week, although they blitzed Jordan Love frequently, they only managed to pressure him on 26.1% of dropbacks—far below league average. Fortunately for Detroit, the Bears' offensive line is vulnerable, having allowed the second-highest pressure rate in Week 1. This gives Aidan Hutchinson and the defensive backs a prime opportunity to make their mark.

Reestablishing the Running Game

To regain their offensive swagger, the Lions must dominate at the line of scrimmage. Their ground game faltered in Week 1, with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery combining for just 46 yards on 20 carries. Campbell and offensive coordinator John Morton are focused on refining communication and execution this week, looking to revive last year’s rushing success rate of 44.6%.

The Bears' run defense is not impenetrable, allowing 4.6 yards per rush and ranking poorly in rushing efficiency metrics last season. If the Lions' backfield can replicate some of last week’s success from Minnesota, it will elevate quarterback Jared Goff’s game—and the Lions' chances of victory.

The Bottom Line