This Sunday, the Falcons will visit Detroit in a game that the Detroit Lions absolutely must win. The Falcons are 2-0 after a terrific comeback victory against Green Bay, while the Lions are coming off a crushing loss in overtime to Seattle in their home opener. The Lions are stumbling into this game after suffering several injuries last Sunday against Seattle. The Falcons will be well-rested and want to move up to 3-0, while the Lions hope to have a comeback game and return to their winning ways.
On Sunday, the 2-0 Falcons are aiming to go to 3-0, and rookie RB Bijan Robinson is a huge reason why they could succeed. Robinson has excelled in the run and pass games and has been a key component of the Falcons’ offensive success. Another key component to their success is their defense. The Falcons have a strong defensive line, which includes Grady Jarrett, but their secondary, which includes Jessie Bates and AJ Terrell, is their strongest point on defense. Bates already has two picks, and Terrell has been excellent in coverage so far. Even though they don’t appear to be the superior team on paper, the Falcons should be able to compete on a rowdy Ford Field.
Last Sunday’s game between the Lions and the Seahawks ended in a tight loss, but there were also several injuries. Vaitai, Joseph, St. Brown, Gardner-Johnson, Montgomery, Reynolds, and Houston were among those injured. Although CJGJ and Houston are probably done for the season, the other players should return in the upcoming weeks. Against Seattle, the Lions offense looked excellent, but their defense was terrible. Jared Goff and Sam LaPorta were among the offensive players that stood out. LaPorta has been a star for the first two weeks, and it appears like Goff is growing more and more confident in him. Goff also showed excellent play, and he appears to have all the makings of the Lions’ future starting quarterback. Despite all of the offense’s positives, the defense was terrible. Geno Smith had plenty of time to himself in the pocket since the defensive line wasn’t applying any pressure on him. DK Metcalf burnt Jerry Jacobs throughout the entire day, which was terrible. The fact that Aaron Glenn had guys like Houston and Hutchinson in coverage may have contributed to the Seahawks’ tight ends’ high level of performance. The run defense’s one success was that it limited Kenneth Walker to only 2.5 yards per carry. To defeat the Falcons this Sunday, the Lions will really need to straighten things out, but I think they will. Despite what many may assume, this game should be incredibly competitive.
My Prediction:
Lions win 34-27
