The Detroit Lions are set to host the Green Bay Packers at Ford Field on Thursday night, with both teams vying for control of the NFC North. The 11-1 Lions, led by quarterback Jared Goff, have been on a 10-game winning streak and are just one victory away from securing a playoff spot.
Meanwhile, the 9-3 Packers have been playing some of their best football lately, with their offense showing significant improvement since Week 10. Green Bay’s offense has cut back on turnovers and held their past three opponents to 19 or fewer points. The Lions’ defense, however, is facing significant injuries, which could impact their ability to contain the Packers’ high-powered offense.
Here are four key factors to watch for in Thursday’s matchup:
1. The Packers must avoid self-inflicted mistakes, having committed penalties and dropped passes that cost them dearly in their previous meeting. Green Bay has been much more efficient since then, but a clean game will be crucial for their chances.
2. The Lions’ defense is struggling with injuries, which could leave them vulnerable to the Packers’ offense. However, if they can contain Jordan Love’s passing and limit the turnovers, they may have a chance to win.
3. A close turnover margin will be crucial for both teams. The Packers need to steal a few possessions or hold the Lions down in the red zone, while the Lions must avoid giving away the ball.
4. The Lions’ run game could play a key role in their victory, as quarterback Jared Goff has been having an excellent season and the team’s top running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs have been consistently grinding for runs.
With both teams playing some of their best football, this Thursday night matchup is shaping up to be an intense NFC North showdown.
Source: https://www.nfl.com/news/2024-nfl-season-week-14-four-things-to-watch-for-packers-lions-prime-video