5 Things to Watch: Lions vs. Packers

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5 Things to Watch: Lions vs. Packers

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Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers will square off for the second time this season on Thursday Night Football. The Lions won the first meeting back in Week 9, 34-20. Here are five things to watch in this matchup:

1. The Lions' running game vs. the Packers' run defense

The Lions' running game has been one of the most explosive in the NFL this season. They are averaging 157.2 yards per game on the ground, which is good for third in the league. Jamaal Williams and D'Andre Swift have been a dynamic duo, combining for 1,539 yards and 14 touchdowns this season. The Packers' run defense has been a major liability this season. They are ranked 28th in the league, allowing an average of 134.7 yards per game on the ground. If the Lions can get their running game going, it will be tough for the Packers to stop them.

2. The Packers' passing game vs. the Lions' pass defense

The Packers' passing game has been inconsistent this season. Aaron Rodgers has thrown for 2,793 yards and 22 touchdowns, but he has also thrown 11 interceptions. The Lions' pass defense has been one of the worst in the league this season. They are ranked 31st in the league, allowing an average of 285.7 yards per game through the air. If the Packers can get their passing game going, it will be a long night for the Lions' defense.

3. The red zone battle

Both the Lions and Packers have struggled in the red zone this season. The Lions are ranked 25th in the league in red zone touchdown rate, converting just 53.8% of their red zone opportunities into touchdowns. The Packers are ranked 28th in the league in red zone touchdown rate, converting just 52.9% of their red zone opportunities into touchdowns. Whoever can win the red zone battle will likely be the winner of this game.

4. The turnover battle

Turnovers have been a big problem for both teams this season. The Lions have turned the ball over 17 times, which is tied for the most in the league. The Packers have turned the ball over 16 times, which is tied for the second most in the league. The team that can take care of the ball and avoid turnovers will have a major advantage in this game.

5. The home-field advantage

The Lions will be playing at home in this game, and that could give them a significant advantage. The Lions are 4-3 at home this season, while the Packers are 2-5 on the road. The Lions' home crowd could be a factor in this game, especially if the game is close in the fourth quarter.

Prediction

This game should be a close one. The Lions have a lot of talent on offense, but they have also been inconsistent this season. The Packers are a more experienced team, but they have also struggled this season. I think the Lions will be able to take advantage of the Packers' weaknesses and win this game by a score of 24-20.