Los Angeles Eagles Emerge as Top Threat to Detroit Lions; Week 12 Takeaways
As the NFL regular season approaches its midpoint, the Detroit Lions have emerged as a surprise contender in the NFC. With an impressive 8-3 record, the Lions are tied for first place in the NFC North and have a legitimate shot at making the playoffs. However, one team that could pose a significant threat to Detroit’s postseason aspirations is the Los Angeles Eagles.
Eagles’ Resurgent Defense a Force to Be Reckoned With
The Eagles’ defense has been a major reason for their success in 2022. Led by All-Pro cornerback Darius Slay, the Eagles have allowed the fewest passing yards per game in the NFL (175.6). They have also recorded 14 interceptions, which is tied for second-most in the league. Slay, in particular, has been dominant, with four interceptions and nine pass breakups.
In addition to their pass defense, the Eagles have also been stout against the run. They have allowed just 95.3 rushing yards per game, which is eighth-best in the NFL. Linebacker T.J. Edwards has been a key cog in the Eagles’ run defense, leading the team with 98 tackles.
Detroit’s Offense Vulnerable to Eagles’ Defense
The Lions’ offense has been one of the most prolific in the NFL this season, averaging 32.3 points per game. However, the Eagles’ defense could pose a major challenge for quarterback Jared Goff and the Lions’ high-powered attack.
The Eagles’ pass rush has been one of the most effective in the league, with 35 sacks on the season. Defensive end Brandon Graham has been a force, with 7.5 sacks in 11 games. The Eagles also have a talented group of linebackers who can generate pressure on the quarterback, including Haason Reddick and Kyzir White.
If the Eagles can pressure Goff and force him into mistakes, it could give them a significant advantage in the matchup against the Lions.
Lions’ Secondary Needs to Step Up
While the Eagles’ defense has been impressive, the Lions’ secondary has been a bit of a liability. The Lions have allowed 258.3 passing yards per game, which is 23rd in the NFL. They have also given up 16 passing touchdowns, which is tied for 20th in the league.
The Lions will need to improve their pass defense if they want to beat the Eagles. They will need to find a way to contain wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, who have combined for 1,545 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns this season.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions are a legitimate playoff contender, but they will face a major challenge in the Los Angeles Eagles in Week 12. The Eagles’ defense has been one of the best in the NFL this season, and they could pose a major threat to the Lions’ high-powered offense. If the Lions want to win, they will need to find a way to protect Jared Goff and limit the Eagles’ pass rush. They will also need to improve their pass defense and find a way to contain A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.