As the NFL season unfolds, the Detroit Lions continue to dazzle with an exceptional 10-1 record, marking their finest start since 1934. This impressive performance has thrust the Lions into the league's upper echelon, with their effectiveness spanning across offense, defense, and special teams, each ranking in the top 10 in Expected Points Added (EPA) per game.
A Defensive Wall
The Lions' defensive prowess has been nothing short of remarkable, allowing the second-fewest points per game in the NFL, with opponents averaging just 16.6 points. The fortitude of this defensive unit became even more pronounced after Week 6, following the injury of key player Aidan Hutchinson. Since then, they have tightened their grip, limiting adversaries to an average of merely 15.3 points per game.
One of the most astonishing feats of this Lions’ defense is their streak of not allowing a touchdown in ten consecutive quarters, a testament to their discipline and tactical excellence. Entering Thanksgiving, they had held opponents to under seven points in successive games, showcasing a formidable and consistent defense.
The Safety Net: Joseph and Branch
Pivotal to the Lions' defensive success are safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch. Joseph, a standout selected in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, has been a terror for opposing quarterbacks. He has accumulated over 200 tackles and 15 interceptions in his first 40 starts—an achievement unmatched since 2000. With a Pro Football Focus grade of 91.3, Joseph's coverage skills have thwarted passers all season.
Joining him in the defensive backfield, Branch, a second-round pick in 2023, complements Joseph with an equally impressive Pro Football Focus grade of 88.1. In just 25 career games, he has surpassed 125 tackles and defended more than 25 passes, underscoring his role as a defensive stalwart.
Together, Joseph and Branch have combined for 11 interceptions without conceding a single touchdown in coverage. Notably, they are the only defenders this season to hold quarterbacks to a passer rating of 20.0 or below when targeted, cementing their status as one of the league's premier safety duos.
Special Teams Surge
Complementing the defensive efforts, the Lions' special teams have also been instrumental in bolstering the team’s top-10 EPA ranking. This unit’s contributions are often overshadowed by the more glamorous roles in the squad, yet their consistent performance provides critical leverage in tight contests.
While the spotlight often shines on offensive fireworks and defensive stops, special teams play can be a vital component in a team's success. For the Lions, this phase of the game has been quietly efficient, delivering when it matters most and adding another layer to their comprehensive game plan.
Looking Forward
The Lions’ domination in these key areas paints a picture of a team not only peaking at the right time but also carving out an identity anchored in strength and cohesion. As they continue to forge ahead with one of the most impressive records in the league, the combination of a suffocating defense, dynamic safeties, and effective special teams places them in an enviable position.
How the remainder of their season unfolds will depend on maintaining this high level of play across all facets. If they manage to keep this up, they not only look poised to end long droughts of postseason frustration but potentially make history by reaching heights unseen for the franchise in decades. With the Thanksgiving games approaching, the Lions appear as a veritable juggernaut, determined to leave a lasting impact on this NFL season.