DETROIT – It's that time of year, the Lions are 6-2, and we're all ready for a midseason collapse. In past years, the Lions have started off strong, with 6-2 records, only to win only 1 or 2 games in the second half of the season. Is that the fate of the 2014 Detroit Lions? Hopeful fans say no, but the remaining schedule would suggest otherwise.
In the first half of the season, the Lions faced teams with a combined record of 27-38. For the 2nd half, the Lions will face teams with a combined record of 35-31. Out of the remaining eight games, the next three games on the schedule are the most crucial: Miami at home, Arizona on the road, and New England on the road. Arizona and New England own the top records in the NFC and AFC. Miami has won three straight games, including routs of Chicago at Soldier Field, and a 37-0 shutout at home against San Diego. These three teams have a combined record of 19-6. So, can they Lions win them?
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Half way through the season, the Lions still own the top ranked defense, averaging just over 290 yards per game. They are 19th in total offense.
Miami @ Detroit
Miami walked into Chicago a couple of weeks ago and essentially ended the Bears season. The Lions and Dolphins haven't played since 2010, when Detroit won in Miami, 34-27. The Dolphins own the 3rd ranked defense in the NFL, and the 4th ranked rushing offense with 137 yards per game. Detroit owns the 2nd ranked rushing defense, only allowing 74 yards per game. If Detroit can win the ground game, they can slow down the Miami attack. One thing to note: QB Ryan Tannehill has been sacked 17 times this season. The Lions are 2nd in sacks.
Detroit @ New England
The last time the Patriots and Lions played was on Thanksgiving in 2010. The Lions held a halftime lead, but would end up being blown out, 45-24. It's bad timing for the Lions, as the Pats seem to be gelling together, after a statement win over the Denver Broncos on Sunday. Tom Brady continues to play at a high level, even with what looks to be no weapons around him. Lions DC Teryl Austin has done a great job this year limiting good QB's to average games (Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers) and will need the same type of game plan to slow down Brady.
Detroit @ Arizona
The Lions never seem to beat Arizona. Even in their down years, on the road or at home, Arizona somehow comes out with a win. Since 2006, Detroit has lost 5 consecutive games to the Cardinals, including last year. Arizona is ranked 23rd in offense and 19th in defense. They swept the NFC East, including a win against the Romo-less Cowboys on Sunday, led by the Cardinals 3rd ranked rush defense. Arizona All-Pro cornerback Patrick Peterson has had a rough year. Assuming Calvin Johnson is healthy, that matchup could be the key. Last year, the two exchanged jerseys after a hard fought battle.
It's also important to note that the Lions finish the season on the road in Chicago and Green Bay. They will need to win at least one, maybe two of the next three games to keep their division title hopes alive. Let us know what you think on our Local 4 Sports Facebook page.