The Detroit Lions, currently at 2-1, have relied heavily on their defense as their high-scoring offense has struggled to find its rhythm.

They are averaging just 18.7 points per game and have scored only three points in the fourth quarter.

Given these offensive struggles, their position is surprising after reaching the NFC Championship game eight months ago.In Week 1, the Lions managed a 26-20 overtime victory against the Los Angeles Rams, led by former quarterback Matthew Stafford, but only after a late field goal tied the game.

Week 2 brought a defeat against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, followed by a narrow 20-13 win over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.

During that game, quarterback Jared Goff nearly threw a game-altering interception late, but officials ruled the play dead before the snap due to the two-minute warning.

The Lions’ defense has been crucial for their early success, especially with tough upcoming games against Seattle, Dallas, and Minnesota.

However, on Monday, fans received disappointing news regarding injuries to key defensive players.

Head Coach Dan Campbell announced that defensive end Marcus Davenport will be out for the remainder of the season due to an elbow injury, while linebacker Derrick Barnes will be sidelined for an extended period with a knee injury.

Campbell stated, “We’re still getting second opinions on Barnes, and those will be coming in for a while.

He’s going to be down for a little while to heal, but is he going to need surgery?” Davenport, acquired from the Vikings, played an essential role as the second defensive end alongside Aidan Hutchinson, making it difficult for offensive coordinators to focus solely on Hutchinson.

In Davenport’s absence, Levi Onwuzurike, who can fill both defensive tackle and end positions, will need to step up, alongside third-year end Josh Pascal, to help maintain the defense’s effectiveness as they prepare for their upcoming opponents.