The Detroit Lions find themselves in uncharted territory as the NFL season progresses, boasting an impressive 10-1 record, their finest start since 1934. As the league enters the later stages of the regular season, the Lions' success can be attributed to their exceptional performance across all phases of the game—offense, defense, and special teams.
A Balanced Attack
Ranking in the top 10 in Expected Points Added (EPA) per game for offense, defense, and special teams, the Lions have crafted a balanced team that capitalizes on every opportunity. Their offense has consistently performed at a high level, but it's the defense that has drawn significant attention this season. Allowing just 16.6 points per game, the Lions' defense is second in the NFL for fewest points allowed, signaling a dramatic improvement that brings to mind the days of Detroit’s strongest defensive lines.
Particularly noteworthy is the Lions’ defensive performance since Week 6. In the wake of Aidan Hutchinson's injury, which many feared would cripple their defensive prowess, Detroit has allowed a stingy 15.3 points per game. The Lions have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, key characteristics of any championship-caliber team.
Defensive Excellence
In the lead-up to the Thanksgiving game, Detroit's defense has held opponents to fewer than seven points in consecutive encounters, showcasing an extraordinary ability to dominate games. An even more striking statistic is their ten consecutive quarters without conceding a touchdown—shutting down offenses and denying them the end zone.
Integral to this defensive renaissance are the Lions’ safeties, Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch. Their performances have been nothing short of stellar in the 2024 season. Pro Football Focus grades Joseph at an astronomical 91.3 and Branch at an impressive 88.1, positioning them among the elite in their respective roles. Their combined efforts have resulted in 11 interceptions this season with zero touchdowns allowed in coverage, a feat not easily achieved in today’s pass-heavy NFL.
Joseph, a third-round pick from the 2022 NFL Draft, has quickly become a cornerstone of the Lions' defense. Remarkably, he is the only player since 2000 to accumulate over 200 tackles and 15 interceptions through just 40 starts, showcasing both tenacity and ball-hawking capability. Brian Branch, selected in the second round in 2023, follows closely behind, having already surpassed 125 tackles and defended over 25 passes in just 25 games. Their proficiency in keeping quarterbacks' passer ratings to a bewildering 20.0 or below when targeted cannot be overstated.
Stellar Special Teams
Complementing the stellar defensive displays, the Lions’ special teams unit contributes significantly to the top-10 EPA ranking in this facet. A well-coordinated and fearless group, they have solidified Detroit's reputation not just defensively but also in creating advantageous field positions and contributing pivotal plays when needed.
A particularly illustrative achievement comes from their secondary—Detroit's defense has allowed a single completion on throws of 20 or more air yards inside the numbers this season, a statistic that underscores the discipline and effectiveness of their defensive strategy.
As the Lions face the remainder of the season, their eyes are on maintaining this best-ever start trajectory, bolstered by a defense that has surpassed expectations at every turn. With a lineup that includes rising stars and seasoned game-changers, Detroit has all the elements needed to make a deep postseason run—a prospect that has their fans dreaming of glory not seen in generations.
For Detroit, this season is about more than just winning games. It's about rewriting a history filled with fleeting touchdowns and elusive victories. If their current form is a precursor, the Lions may just be the team to watch for a spirited playoff bid, and perhaps, an even more unexpected triumph.