The Detroit Lions face their toughest test yet this season as they prepare to take on the Indianapolis Colts and their dynamic quarterback, Anthony Richardson. To secure the win, the Lions’ defense must find a way to neutralize Richardson’s biggest weapon: his legs.

Richardson’s Growing Threat on the Ground

Anthony Richardson’s ability to run the football is rapidly becoming one of the most dangerous aspects of his game. After missing significant time in his rookie season, he has returned with a renewed focus on his running ability. In his first four games last year, Richardson rushed for 211 yards, averaging 8.4 yards per carry. Though his production has dipped slightly in 2024 (5.3 yards per carry), his frequency of running the ball has only increased, with Richardson averaging seven carries per game in his seven starts.

At 6-foot-4 and possessing 4.4-speed, Richardson’s size and athleticism make him a constant threat. The Colts are leveraging his mobility more than ever, and he’s becoming a focal point in their offense. With plays designed to exploit his rushing ability, the Lions will need to be prepared to face a quarterback who can extend plays and rack up yards with his legs.

Detroit’s Defensive Success Against Scrambling Quarterbacks

For years, the Lions’ defense has struggled with mobile quarterbacks. However, in 2024, they’ve made significant strides in containing scrambling quarterbacks. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn has emphasized limiting quarterbacks’ mobility, and the results have been impressive.

In matchups against players like Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Geno Smith, the Lions have managed to keep rushing yards to a minimum. Through these games, they’ve allowed an average of just 6.1 yards per carry across 20 rushes from scrambling quarterbacks, while forcing six fumbles.

This season’s defensive improvements are evident, but facing Richardson presents a different challenge. Unlike the quarterbacks Detroit has faced this season, Richardson is stronger, faster, and more accustomed to running the football. His unique combination of size and speed makes him a much tougher challenge to contain.

Key Injury Loss: Alex Anzalone’s Absence

The Lions’ defense will face even more challenges with the absence of linebacker Alex Anzalone, who is out with a broken forearm. Anzalone, known for his speed and instincts, has been a key factor in the Lions’ success against mobile quarterbacks. His absence leaves a significant hole in the Lions’ defensive scheme, as he would have been the ideal player to track Richardson’s movements.

With Anzalone sidelined, the Lions will need to rely on other players to step up and account for Richardson’s running ability. This will put even more pressure on the defense to execute their game plan effectively.

Exploiting Richardson’s Struggles as a Passer

While Richardson’s legs pose a major threat, his struggles as a passer offer the Lions an opportunity to capitalize. With the lowest completion percentage (48.5%) among starting quarterbacks and more interceptions (7) than touchdowns (5), Richardson has shown a tendency to struggle with accuracy and ball security.

The Lions’ secondary, led by safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch, has been outstanding in 2024. With 11 combined interceptions, including Joseph’s league-leading seven picks, Detroit’s defense is primed to take advantage of Richardson’s erratic passing. If the Lions can contain Richardson on the ground and force him to throw, his mistakes could hand Detroit key turnovers.

Containing Richardson for the Win

The key to a Lions victory in Indianapolis will be limiting Richardson’s impact with his legs. If Detroit can force him into passing situations, their defense’s ability to capitalize on his mistakes could be the difference-maker.

Richardson’s dual-threat ability makes him a unique challenge for the Lions, but with a strong defensive plan and the advantage of facing a quarterback with ball security issues, Detroit has the tools to secure a win. By keeping Richardson contained, the Lions will not only minimize his rushing yards but also increase their chances of exploiting his passing struggles.

If the Lions can execute their game plan and neutralize Anthony Richardson’s legs, they will have a clear path to their 10th win of the season.