For the second week in a row, the Lions face a team they defeated in last year’s playoffs, having beaten Tampa Bay 31-23 in the NFC Divisional Round.
This rematch could be just as competitive as their previous encounter.Detroit holds a slight edge in their all-time series with Tampa Bay, leading 33-29, and has won the last two meetings.
Their most recent loss to the Buccaneers was in 2020, when Tampa Bay, led by Tom Brady, went on to win the Super Bowl.
The Lions are coming off an exciting 26-20 overtime win against the Los Angeles Rams, while the Buccaneers impressively defeated the Washington Commanders 37-20 in Week
1.Here are three crucial factors for the Lions to secure a win on Sunday:
1.Maintain a Strong Running Game Detroit’s running game, featuring both David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, has proven to be highly effective this season. Against the Rams, Montgomery and the offensive line dominated on the final drive to clinch the victory in overtime.
The Lions will face the Buccaneers, who allowed 138 rushing yards on 30 carries to the Commanders last week.
Although Tampa Bay’s defense limited the Commanders to under three yards per carry, the Lions boast a superior offensive line. Continued success in the running game will help open up other areas of the offense.
2.Control Mike Evans and Chris Godwin The Lions’ secondary faces another challenging test with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, following their matchup against Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua last week. Evans and Godwin present a formidable threat to Detroit’s defense.
Last week, Kupp caught 14 passes for 110 yards and a touchdown, while Tyler Johnson added five catches for 79 yards. Despite Nacua’s injury, he managed four catches for 35 yards.
With Baker Mayfield, who had the highest passer rating in Week 1 (146.6), leading the Bucs, the Lions need to tighten their pass defense to prevent a potential shootout.
3. Force Turn overs The Buccaneers were adept at protecting the football in their Week 1 win, but the Lions must make Mayfield uncomfortable throughout the game.
Aidan Hutchinson, who had an outstanding performance last week with a high Pro Football Focus grade, one sack, three hits, and five hurries, could be a key player in this area.
Hutchinson will face off against Tristan Wirfs, who was highly graded among offensive tackles.
Safety Kerby Joseph also made an impactful play with an interception last week, and the Lions need more such plays to shift momentum.
Mayfield has thrown 18 interceptions in 30 starts for Tampa Bay and has been sacked 77 times.
The Bucs’ offensive line, ranked 17th by PFF, presents an opportunity for Detroit to capitalize on forcing turnovers
