Detroit Lions: 3 X-factor players for Week 7 vs. Falcons

These Detroit Lions X-factors must rise up if they’re going to win in Week 7.

The Detroit Lions are alive — barely, but they are indeed alive. After a 1-3 start that left the team teetering on the brink of another lost season, the Motor City men roared back into life with a dominant win over the Jaguars. It was a complete performance in the Matt Patricia era and it came at a vital time for the head coach.

The edict from ownership to be playing meaningful games in December looms large over the head coach, and after a 1-3 start, the Detroit natives were getting restless. But that win on Sunday has given the team some respite and the fans some hope. It is now imperative that they travel to Atlanta, gunning for another win.

It will not be easy. Atlanta is a flawed team, no doubt about it, but they are still a dangerous team, especially on offense. They displayed this in their dismantling of the hapless Vikings. With former MVP Matt Ryan under center and two outstanding receivers in Calvin Ridley and Julio Jones, this team should be respected.

In every game this season, they have put big points on the board and are ranked in the top five in passing yards and total offense. They consistently move the ball and can attack from anywhere.

But the defense is susceptible. They sit 31st in total yards allowed and are 31st in passing yards allowed. While the Lions will be tested defensively, they will have opportunities on offense. An offense that at last is starting to come together slowly. Both sides of the ball will have to play at a high level this weekend, and they will need key contributions from their big players.

Here are three players that will be pivotal for Detroit.