The stage is set for an electrifying Divisional Round matchup as the Detroit Lions travel to face the Washington Commanders in what promises to be a hard-hitting, high-stakes clash. Both teams have defied expectations this season, with the Lions riding a potent offense and an improved defense, while the Commanders have built a reputation for their tenacious play and resilient team spirit. As the two teams square off for a shot at advancing to the NFC Championship, the stakes couldn't be higher, and the intensity will be palpable from the opening kickoff.
The Commanders are one of the few teams in the NFC that the Lions have not played this year and the only other team that could be a real threat to them besides the Eagles. Almost 2 years ago, Commanders fans probably didn't see this scenario. Now, with a new owner, GM, coaching staff, and a talented QB, this team is finally giving its fans something to believe in. But against this Lions team, this will be the hardest game the Commanders will play all year.
Game day: Saturday, January 18, 2025
Game time: 8 p.m. ET
Location: Detroit, Michigan
Stadium: Ford Field
Broadcasters: FOX
Spread Favorite: Lions (-8.5)
Moneyline: Lions (-500), Commanders (+380)
Total: 55.5 points
Lions Injuries: RB David Montgomery (QUESTIONABLE), G Kevin Zeitler (QUESTIONABLE), CB Ennis Rackshaw Jr (QUESTIONABLE).
Commanders Injuries: MLB Bobby Wagner (QUESTIONABLE), TE Ben Sinnot (QUESTIONABLE).
Detroit Lions
Offense
The Lions' offense was sensational to watch in the regular season. With its creativity and deep talent in the receiving and running core, this side of the team was just a lethal weapon. Finishing second in the passing game, with an average of 263.2 yards thrown per game and 39 passing touchdowns, this team used everyone, including the offensive linemen, when it came to throwing the ball.
The rushing attack worked just as well, ranking 6th for the regular season with 146.4 yards average per game and 39 touchdowns. This is an account of the duo of David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs sharing the load and keeping the defense guessing on who's handling the football. When Montgomery was out due to injury for the season's final two games, Gibbs stepped up and dealt with the load, even setting franchise records in most rushing touchdowns and total touchdowns scored in the game for the Lions in Week 17. With Montgomery more than likely returning for this game against the Commanders, that two-punch combo returns in time for when every game matters.
Defense
Lions' defense is not what it was at the beginning of the season, with star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson out for the season, among others. But this defense has dug into the trenches and come through with massive stops in big games. While ranking 30th in passing defense, with an average of 244.0 yards compromised through the air and 18 touchdowns, the defense has shined with preventing the run game going, ranking fifth with an average of 98.4 yards let up through the ground and 18 rushing touchdowns scored. This defense knows how to keep the feet planted when back pedaling and has made massive turnovers and stops during a game where it is needed the most.
Washington Commanders
Offense
With a complete overhaul in ownership and coaching personnel, this team has been given new life in their talented rookie QB Jayden Daniels. Ranking 17th is the passing game; with 215.6 yards average through the air and 29 passing touchdowns, this team is starting to see what it is truly capable of. WR Terry McLaurin is probably over the moon now that he finally has a QB with the talent of Daniels. Their rushing offense has seen a resurgence, ranking third overall with 154.1-yard average rushing per game and 29 touchdowns. All in part to Daniels' ability to extend the play and move outside the pocket when he sees a lane. Commanders have a star that could be MVP in a couple of years.
Defense
This defense is a lockdown when it comes to the passing game. Ranking third overall, with 189.8 yards allowed through the air and 25 touchdowns allowed, this defense is just on fire to prevent the passing game from getting going. The rushing defense, however, is the weakest link. Ranking 29th overall, letting up an average of 137.1 yards per game on the ground and 18 touchdowns. But in the Wild Card matchup, the Commanders held the Buccaneers to 18 rushing yards and zero touchdowns. While the Buccaneers are not known for their rushing game, it is still impressive to be able to keep a team from 50 total yards rushing. Let us see if this will carry into the divisional round.
My Verdict
The Lions have a much better rushing attack that they will use to exploit the Commanders struggling rushing defense. With David Montgomery coming back, and getting that bye week, this team will be refreshed and ready for this matchup. Commanders will put up a fight, but they won't be able to stop this rushing offense.
Final Score: 34-17 Lions
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