Green Bay Packers 2018 opponent preview: Detroit Lions
The Green Bay Packers look for revenge after the Detroit Lions blew them out in both matchups in 2017. Will they bounce back against another NFC North rival?
For the first time since 1991, the Detroit Lions swept the season series versus the Green Bay Packers. That was partly due to the fact that the Lions did not win a game at Lambeau Field since that same 1991 season. It took 24 years for Detroit to win in Green Bay and 27 years to finally sweep the Packers.
The pure dominance all came to an abrupt end in 2017. In Brett Hundley’s second-ever start, the Packers lost on Monday Night Football, 30-17. Then, on the final day of the regular season, the Packers were blown out in a meaningless game at Detroit, 35-11.
With Aaron Rodgers back, the Packers look to get back on track and continue their dominance against the Lions in 2018.
Week 5 at Lambeau Field
After what should be an easy game against the Buffalo Bills, the schedule starts to become more difficult for the Packers. The Lions come to town for the first game in a rough month of October. The Lions have improved considerably on offense, specifically their running backs. They signed LeGarrette Blount and drafted Kerryon Johnson as both look to bolster a previously weak running back corps.
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By Week 5, we should have an idea of who will be the lead back in Detroit. Ameer Abdullah and Theo Riddick will continue to contribute as well. You can’t forget about them, because they will beat you in the passing and return games.
The Packers defense will have to gameplan twice for what could be a surprisingly dangerous Lions offense. Quarterback Matthew Stafford has burned the Packers defense on multiple occasions over the years. However, he has yet to face the new and improved defense. It’s tough to say whether they will stop Stafford and Co., but the chances are much better compared to years past.
There will be more offense on display than ever before. With Rodgers and the offense adding more weapons, Week 5 will likely see an offensive showing. The Packers need a win here before the games get much tougher in the weeks to come after this game. At Lambeau, it will be much easier to grab a win.
Prediction: Packers win, 35-28
Week 17 at Ford Field
Despite the Lions improving their team greatly in the offseason, it is still a two-team race in the NFC North. The Lions aren’t one of those teams. Their defense just isn’t that great, despite hiring former New England Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia. Week 17 may not matter for the Lions when everything is all said and done. However, they could still be fighting for a Wild Card spot in the NFC.
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Even if the Lions don’t have anything to play for, beating one of your rivals is always nice. In addition, the Packers will likely be fighting for a playoff spot. This game could be the difference in getting back to the postseason or not. If the Packers have a spot locked up though, this game may not mean as much. Like with the Lions though, beating your rival is always a good feeling.
The Packers will likely have something to play for though come the last week of the season. Whether it’s what seed they are or if they are fighting to even get in the playoffs. Rodgers and Co. will bring their A-game though.
Prediction: Packers win, 27-21