Map Out The Lions' Playoff Path: Divisional Round Opponent And Game Schedule
The Detroit Lions are in the playoffs for the first time since 2016. They clinched a spot in the NFC Divisional Round with a 20-16 win over the Chicago Bears in Week 17.
The Buccaneers are the No. 2 seed in the NFC and have a 13-4 record. They are led by quarterback Tom Brady, who is making his 19th playoff appearance.
The Lions are the No. 7 seed in the NFC and have a 9-8 record. They are led by quarterback Jared Goff, who is making his third playoff appearance.
The Lions and Buccaneers have not met since 2018. The Buccaneers won that game 24-21.
Keys to the Game for the Lions
The Lions will need to play their best game of the season to beat the Buccaneers. Here are some keys to the game for the Lions:
- Win the turnover battle. The Lions have been one of the worst teams in the NFL at protecting the football this season. They have 22 turnovers, which is tied for the third-most in the league. The Buccaneers have only 13 turnovers this season, which is the fifth-fewest in the league.
- Get pressure on Tom Brady. Brady is one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, but he is also 45 years old. The Lions' pass rush will need to generate pressure on Brady and force him into making mistakes.
- Run the football effectively. The Lions have one of the best running games in the NFL. They are averaging 148.6 rushing yards per game, which is the fourth-most in the league. The Lions will need to establish the run game early and keep the Buccaneers' defense honest.
- Make big plays in the passing game. The Lions have a number of talented receivers, including Amon-Ra St. Brown, DJ Chark, and Josh Reynolds. The Lions will need to make some big plays in the passing game to keep the Buccaneers' defense off balance.
Outlook for the Lions
The Lions are a long shot to beat the Buccaneers, but they have a chance to win if they play their best game. The Lions have a lot of talent on both sides of the ball, and they are playing with a lot of confidence. If the Lions can win the turnover battle, get pressure on Brady, run the football effectively, and make big plays in the passing game, they have a chance to pull off the upset.