Detroit Lions vs. Washington Commanders: Breakdown, and Prediction

The Detroit Lions face the Washington Commanders Sunday for Week 2. The Lions are coming off a heartbreaking loss to the Eagles while the Commanders are coming off of a win against the Jaguars.

This article will give analyses, breakdowns, and predictions for the Detroit Lions vs. Washington Commanders.

 

Commanders Offense vs. Lions Offense

The Commanders have an underrated offense led by veteran quarterback Carson Wentz. Wentz is the prototypical QB who will stand in the pocket and deliver the football. Wentz does have the ability to scramble outside of the pocket and make a play with his legs. Wide receiver Terry McLaurin has a big play possibility averaging 29 yards per reception.

Speedy rookie WR Jahan Dotson is a burner. On opening day, he scored two touchdowns against the Jaguars due to his elusive speed beating the defense. Running Back Antonio Gibson is a bigger back who can maul. The Washington offensive line is better than average ranking at 12 per PFF.

The Lions have the second highest points scored on offense in the NFL at 35. Quarterback Jared Goff is an average QB who, given time, can find the open receiver. Goff has plenty of weapons at the wide receiver position with Amon-Ra St. Brown, DJ Chark, and Josh Reynolds. The question will be: can the Lions exploit the Commander’s defense with these weapons?

The Lions hold one of the best offensive lines in the NFL with the likes of Taylor Decker, Frank Ragnow, and Penei Sewell. Running back D’Andre Swift exploded in Week 1 by rushing for 144 yards and two touchdowns.

Overall, the Lions have the advantage on offense with a better offensive line and running game compared to the Commander’s. Washington has explosive WRs who can break the defense. Goff is more of a trustworthy QB, the Lions have the advantage on offense.

Advantage: Lions

 

Commander’s Defense vs. Lions Defense

The Commanders have a really good defensive line. Unfortunately, edge rusher Chase Young will not be playing in this game. Still, edge rusher Montez Sweat is a dynamic pass rusher who can wreak havoc for any QB. Defensive tackle Daron Payne is a really good interior defensive lineman who is known to clog the middle. Washington has some quality linebackers such as Jamin Davis and Cole Holcomb. The secondary is decent with cornerbacks Kendall Fuller and William Jackson III.

The Detroit Lions’ defense is not good. The defensive line must be able to get pressure from Edge Rushers Aidan Hutchinson, Charles Harris, and Austin Bryant. The Lions linebackers feature one decent player in rookie Malcolm Rodriguez. CB Jeffrey Okudah has played well since preseason and into week 1.

The advantage must go to the Washington Commanders. The defense is better with higher talent.

Advantage: Commanders

 

Detroit Lions vs. Washington Commanders:
Prediction and Final Score

Lions: 27, Commanders: 21

The Lions have a better offense and it is at home. The Commanders are good, but not good enough for them to win.

 

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