The Detroit Lions managed to secure a win in their season opener, although it required some extra effort.

On the other hand, th Tampa Bay Buccaneers had a strong start by scoring 37 points in their first game and keeping the Washington Commanders to just 20 points in their home opener.

In Week 1, the Lions’ defense allowed only five fewer yards than the Bucs’ defense against the Commanders but managed to concede 17 fewer points.

The question now is whether Detroit’s retooled defense will improve in Week 2 or if the yards conceded will convert into more points against the Buccaneers.

The Lions aim to start the season with a 2-0 record for the first time since 2017.Let’s explore some key aspects to monitor in this game and a few predictions for this NFC playoff rematch.

Despite having several standout players on both sides of the field, the Buccaneers are dealing with a number of injuries after just one week. Conversely, the Lions are becoming healthier, which might give them a significant advantage.

Detroit’s defense was impressive in Week 1, generating 27 pressures, the third-most in the NFL behind Dallas and Seattle, according to Pro Football Focus. D.J. Reader will be available for the upcoming game against Tampa Bay.

However, the Bucs’ new interior offensive line starters struggled last week, and their right tackle, Luke Goedeke, is out with a concussion.

Additionally, Tampa’s defense has been hit hard by injuries. Starting cornerback Bryce Hall is on injured reserve, and All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr. is out with a foot injury.

Defensive back Josh Hayes and defensive lineman Calijah Kancey are also ruled out for Sunday’s game.Defensive lineman Logan Hall, cornerbacks Zyon McCollum, and Tykee Smith are listed as questionable.

These injuries could be significant and impact the game considerably.While the Buccaneers have a talented roster and are expected to be strong contenders in the NFC South this season, the Lions currently have an edge due to their better health and overall talent.

The Lions’ depth might prove crucial if they can avoid injuries themselves, aside from safety Ifeatu Melifonwu (ankle) and wide receiver Isaiah Williams (abdomen), who are confirmed to be out against Tampa Bay.Winning in overtime at home against a playoff-caliber team can be emotionally charged, and the Lions are aware of this.

They have promised to stay focused for their next game, but maintaining that level of intensity can be challenging.

It’s not uncommon for strong teams to struggle following an emotional win, and facing a high-powered team like the Bucs could pose a threat to the Lions.

Melifonwu and Williams will miss their second game, which might deplete their depth in some positions.

Defensive end Marcus Davenport (groin) is also doubtful, creating a potential vulnerability on the defensive line.

The Lions also have three players listed as questionable: safety Kerby Joseph (hamstring), right tackle Penei Sewell (ankle), and wide receiver Jameson Williams (ankle).

If Williams and Isaiah Williams are both absent, there could be a noticeable drop in talent and chemistry with quarterback Jared Goff, particularly in the passing game. Sewell’s potential absence would also impact the offensive line’s performance.

Last week, Baker Mayfield performed well under pressure and was effective at extending plays with his mobility.

The Lions’ ability to create pressure might be crucial, especially considering Tampa’s offensive line issues.

If the Lions can pressure Mayfield but fail to contain him, it could be a difficult day for their defense.If Jameson Williams plays, the Lions could see a significant boost in their passing attack.

Without him, both the Lions’ passing game and the Buccaneers’ secondary could be more evenly matched in terms of injuries and performance.

Even without Williams, Goff still has key targets like St. Brown, tight end Sam LaPorta, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs to rely on.

With Tampa Bay’s defensive line also banged up, Goff could potentially have a standout performance in front of the home crowd.Detroit’s offseason acquisition of defensive tackle D.J.

Reader was a smart move, despite him being sidelined for much of the summer due to a torn quad.

Now, with Reader back and paired with Alim McNeill and Levi Onwuzurike, along with Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport on the edges, Detroit could have a formidable defensive line.

Even though Reader might need some time to regain his form, it will be interesting to see how this unit performs.

In Week 1, a standout performance by a speedy receiver who caught five passes for 123 yards and a touchdown might be repeated if he plays against the Buccaneers.

Sam LaPorta, who had a decent start with four catches for 45 yards, could also be a key player to watch if he improves on his previous performance.

Although the Bucs had a strong showing against Washington, their injuries and Detroit’s home-field advantage could make a significant difference.

Despite the Lions’ wide receiver issues, they are likely to rely on a strong running game and control the time of possession.

The Buccaneers will likely keep the game competitive, but their defensive injuries may not be enough to stop the Lions from securing their second win of the season at Ford Field.