The Lions need a win badly. They have an offense that is hot and will want revenge for their coordinator, and they have a defense hungry to look capable and functional. I am actually coming around on this game, I think this can be the springboard for the Lions to come back (the optimist in me is back). So let’s dig in on 5 things to watch during this game in hopes the Lions can seal a victory and head into the bye week 3-2.
Jalen Mills
Coach Campbell stated that the Lions would be playing Jalen Mills, 10 year veteran safety, more this week. With Branch not returning until the next game at earliest, Mills will need to step up. Keep an eye on Mills and if he is providing a more veteran presence to the defense. Perhaps he can help the Lions not look so confused in the defensive backfield. Watch his coverage versus his tackling: the Lions sorely need a safety who can cover a bit better than Clark or Izien, but need to keep the strong tackling in place.
Jack Campbell
Jack Campell has been playing poorly this year, really poorly. It’s not that he is not trying. It’s not that he got his contract so he is going to give up on the Lions. If you listen to his press conferences, he cares about this team and is harder on himself than we are. Watch Jack Campbell, and hope for a comeback game, more tackles, perhaps a PBU in coverage.
Bishop Fitzgerald
Since the Lions poached Bishop Fitzgerald off of the Steelers practice squad, I have wanted to see him in action. I just understand that he needed time to understand the Lions defense. I am hopeful with the Lions looking for answers they will turn to the rookie Fitzgerald out of USC. He has ball hawk skills this team badly needs right now, even if his tackling leaves a bit to be desired.
Kelvin Sheppard
The Lions defense has been bad in the back 2 levels, the only thing working is the defensive line. This may truly be Kelvin Sheppard coaching for his life. The Lions defense has to step up, or Coach Campbell may decide to fire him at the bye. Alternatively he may be stripped of playcalling duty. We simply have to watch for Kelvin Sheppard to try to pull it all together this week. Out of potential necessity. Some people thrive in these situations, and some fall flat.
Jared Goff / Lions Offense
I have a gut feeling that Jared Goff is going to eat this Cardinals defense alive. The rest of the offense should benefit. Look for all your favorite players to put up yards this week. I mean we always root for them to do so, but I truly feel the Lions offense will be good. The only question about the Lions is the defenses ability to hold Arizona less points than the offense can put up.
At the end of the day, all I have left to say is Let’s Go Lions!!!