As the NFL season rolls on, the Detroit Lions are seizing an opportunity to establish themselves as legitimate contenders, taking full advantage of a Jacksonville Jaguars team struggling to find its rhythm. While the Lions have been firing on all cylinders, the Jaguars are grappling with inconsistencies that have questioned their season expectations. With a dominating Detroit squad on the prowl, Jacksonville’s woes are proving to be a ripe target for the Lions to capitalize on. The result? It's a showdown that promises to be pivotal in both teams’ pursuit of postseason glory.
The Lions, led by an offense that’s firing at full throttle, have shown resilience and composure in critical moments. Meanwhile, once seen as rising stars in the AFC, the Jaguars are now caught in a tailspin that’s left many wondering if they can right the ship before it’s too late. As Detroit continues to build momentum, the Jaguars’ struggles offer a unique opportunity for the Lions to assert dominance and their best 10-game mark since 1934.
Game Information
Time: 1:00 pm EST
Where: Ford Field
Broadcasters: CBS
Lions injury report: Carlton Davis III CB (QUESTIONABLE), Sam LaPorta TE (QUESTIONABLE)
Jaguars injury report: Trevor Lawrence QB (Out) Tank Bigsby RB (QUESTIONABLE), D'Ernest Johnson RB (QUESTIONABLE), Brian Thomas Jr. WR (QUESTIONABLE), Gabe Davis WR (QUESTIONABLE), Daniel Thomas S (QUESTIONABLE)
Betting Odds
Spread: Lions -14
Moneyline: Lions -952 | Jaguars +628
Total: 47
Detroit Lions
Offense
The Lions' offense last outing was a terrible one, to put it bluntly, most notably Jared Goff. Goff threw five picks in the game against Houston, so he is expected to treat Sunday as a redemption opportunity. He has had a stellar season, and to put him back in the MVP talks, he must have a standout game. But like I have said, Goff does not seem to care about that award, but rather the team's success. But to take control of the game, Goff will have to have better judgment on when to sling it. But the Lions are going up against a team that struggles on defense in the rush and passing game. The Lions offense should have no issues handling this team AND should put up a lot of points on the board.
Defense
The Lion's defense stepped up when it was needed the most in last week's game against the Texans. Now they have an easier task holding the Jaguars' mediocre offense, already without Trevor Lawrence. The defense will have to handle Mac Jones under center, so it'll be a little easier to cover on top of that. Not only that, but the pass rush will also be deadlier with the acquisition of Zadarius Smith at the trade deadline. With Smith in for Hutchinson, it will partially fill a gaping hole in the Lions pass rush that they have needed in Hutchinson's absence. This should be a textbook game for the defense and should only give up field goals, if anything.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Offense
The Jags offense has been different from the dynamic one of seasons past. It has struggled this season, ranking 25th in overall offense. With Trevor Lawrence out for the unforeseeable future, the Jags will have Mac Jones under center to lead the offense. His last game didn't provide any confidence to Jags fans, as Jones threw two picks and a lowly 111 yards. Here is hoping maybe he can get something going, but against this Lions' defense, it's unlikely.
Defense
The defense isn't any better. Ranking 30th in passing defense and 21st in rushing, this isn't exactly a group that has excelled in preventing the opposing offenses from driving down the field. There were signs of life last game against the Vikings, only giving up 12 points and picking off Sam Darnold twice. Maybe this is a sign for things to turn around, but they will face a different level of competition in these Lions.
My Verdict
Lions take this game with ease. The only thing to watch out for is injuries. That's pretty much it. Here's hoping Jared Goff can get back on track and sling the ball downfield and not get picked. I wouldn't be surprised if he is pulled off and Hendon Hooker takes over in the 4th when they are up in points.
Final Score: 52-10 Lions
Main Image via