Detroit Lions Host Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Divisional Round Rematch
January 15, 2024
Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan
The Detroit Lions are hosting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Divisional Round of the playoffs for the second consecutive year, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch of their Week 6 encounter in Tampa Bay, which the Lions won convincingly by a score of 20-6. With a victory this afternoon, the Lions will secure a spot in the NFC Championship Game for the first time since 1991, where they will face the No. 1 seed San Francisco 49ers, who defeated the Green Bay Packers in the other NFC Divisional matchup on Saturday night.
Five Key Factors to Watch in Today’s Matchup:
1. Handling the Blitz:
Tampa Bay head coach Todd Bowles is known for his aggressive defensive approach, which includes a heavy reliance on blitzing. The Buccaneers blitzed opposing quarterbacks 40.1% of the time this season, ranking third highest in the NFL behind only the Minnesota Vikings (51.5%) and the New York Giants (45.4%). This aggressive strategy resulted in 48 sacks, placing them seventh in the league.
To counter Tampa Bay’s blitz-heavy defense, Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has identified center Frank Ragnow as a key player. Johnson praised Ragnow’s ability to read and identify fronts, which allows him to effectively communicate with the rest of the offensive line, running backs, and tight ends to adjust their protection schemes accordingly. Johnson highlighted Ragnow’s experience and football IQ, emphasizing his ability to find solutions even when faced with unexpected defensive looks.
2. Establishing the Running Game:
The Lions’ success in the running game will be crucial in neutralizing Tampa Bay’s pass rush and sustaining drives. The Buccaneers’ defense ranked sixth in the NFL this season in yards per carry allowed (4.0), and they also recorded the third-most tackles for loss (106) and the fourth-most sacks (48).
To overcome Tampa Bay’s stout run defense, the Lions will need to establish a physical presence in the trenches and generate consistent yardage on the ground. Running backs D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams have formed a formidable duo this season, combining for over 1,800 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns. The Lions’ offensive line, led by Ragnow, will need to create running lanes and provide adequate blocking to allow Swift and Williams to find success.
3. Protecting Jared Goff:
Protecting quarterback Jared Goff will be paramount for the Lions’ offense to function effectively. The Buccaneers’ defense boasts a formidable pass rush, led by Pro Bowl defensive end Shaquil Barrett and veteran edge rusher Jason Pierre-Paul. Barrett recorded 10 sacks during the regular season, while Pierre-Paul added 9.5 sacks.
The Lions’ offensive line will need to provide Goff with ample time to survey the field and make accurate throws. Goff has shown impressive poise and decision-making this season, completing 67.2% of his passes for 4,400 yards, 33 touchdowns, and only 10 interceptions. If the Lions can keep Goff upright and give him time to operate, they will be in a good position to move the ball and score points against the Buccaneers’ defense.
4. Limiting Turnovers:
Turnovers can be costly in any football game, but they can be particularly damaging in playoff contests. The Lions committed the eighth-fewest turnovers in the NFL during the regular season (14), while the Buccaneers ranked in the middle of the pack with 19 turnovers.
The Lions will need to maintain their ball security and avoid giving the Buccaneers any easy opportunities to gain possession. Goff will need to be careful with his throws and avoid making risky decisions that could lead to interceptions. The running backs and receivers will also need to be mindful of ball security and protect the football when making catches or carrying the ball.
5. Creating Big Plays:
In a game that is expected to be closely contested, the ability to create big plays could be the difference-maker. The Lions have several playmakers on offense who are capable of generating explosive plays, including wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and DJ Chark, as well as running back D’Andre Swift.
The Buccaneers’ defense has allowed its fair share of big plays this season, giving up the ninth-most passing plays of 20 or more yards (63). The Lions will need to take advantage of these opportunities and convert them into points. Whether it’s a deep pass to St. Brown or a breakaway run by Swift, the Lions need to find ways to strike quickly and keep the Buccaneers’ defense on its heels.
Conclusion:
The Detroit Lions and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set for a highly anticipated Divisional Round rematch with a berth in the NFC Championship Game on the line. The Lions will need to find a way to handle Tampa Bay’s aggressive blitz, establish the running game, protect Jared Goff, limit turnovers, and create big plays in order to secure the victory. The Buccaneers, led by quarterback Tom Brady and a talented defense, will be looking to avenge their Week 6 loss and advance to the next round of the playoffs. The outcome of this game will hinge on which team executes better in key situations and makes the most of their opportunities.