The Lions Are Dominating Football

Tyler Stearns |

The Detroit Lions are playing like the best team in the NFL this season. Aside from a hiccup defensively against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jared Goff and the Lions have been rolling. They have scored thirty-plus in four of their eight games, and have put up at least twenty points in each matchup this season. Jared Goff leads the NFL in completion percentage and he rarely turns the ball over, and their one-two punch at running back has opened up the play-action game. But let's break down their success.

Jared Goff, Via Pride of Detroit

Most of the offensive credit has to go to Ben Johnson. Johnson is one of the most creative minds in the game. Often running trick plays, his Lions offense has a deep playbook that they use to attack their opponents. We have seen players other than Goff throw two touchdowns this year, and he has also incorporated flea flickers into the scheme. But aside from the fun, the offense is extremely balanced, and they strike when necessary. Jared Goff's completion percentage is so high because of the effectiveness of the running game. The offensive line blows opposing defensive fronts off the line, which allows Montgomery and Gibbs to the second level. And that opens up the play-action game, which opens up Amon Ra and Sam LaPorta in the intermediate zones of the field. But the most important takeaway from their offense this year is their ability to run the ball, which is enabled by Penei Sewell and the rest of the front five.

The defense has improved most from last season. Brian Branch has led this unit to be one of the best in the league. He has been all over the field and helped some of the young corners. Even after losing Aiden Hutchinson, the front seven can create pressure.

The Lions have a favorable rest of their schedule and play their division rivals Green Bay at home. The toughest team they play on the road is the Bills, but they host them which is important. The Lions are Super Bowl contenders and should be expected to at least make it to New Orleans.