Three Keys to Victory: Lions vs Packers

With the Green Bay Packers coming to town on a short week, the Detroit Lions know they will need to deliver one of their most complete performances of the season if they hope to keep control of the NFC North race. Detroit is returning home after a grueling overtime win, while the Packers are coming off a dominant victory over the Minnesota Vikings, one so lopsided that Green Bay rested several starters in the fourth quarter.

The Lions, meanwhile, played nearly a full extra quarter Sunday and will now attempt to recover in just four days. Whether Detroit can sustain its momentum or Green Bay’s added rest becomes a difference-maker will help determine which team emerges with a crucial divisional victory. If the Lions execute three key areas, their chances of coming out on top improve significantly.

Key No. 1: Establish a Dominant Rushing Attack

Detroit’s offense is at its best when the run game sets the tone, and that means Jahmyr Gibbs will be central to Thursday’s plan. Gibbs is coming off a career performance in which he rushed for 219 yards, including the overtime game-winning 69-yard touchdown that sealed the victory. It was the type of explosive outing the Lions envisioned when drafting him, and they may need a similar level of production against a Green Bay defense that ranks in the middle of the league, allowing 116.5 rushing yards per game.

The matchup also offers Gibbs a chance at redemption. The last time Detroit played Green Bay, he finished with only nine carries for 19 yards, considered one of the least productive game of his young career. The Packers have allowed the fifth-most rushing touchdowns this season, and Detroit will look to exploit that vulnerability early and often.

A notable trend underscores Gibbs’ importance: The Lions are winless this season in games where he fails to reach at least 54 rushing yards. When Gibbs is involved and efficient, Detroit’s offense becomes significantly harder to contain. Put simply, a strong rushing performance is not just helpful it is essential.

Key No. 2: Protect the Football

Quarterback Jared Goff has been reliable for much of the season, but recent turnover issues have created concern. Goff has thrown an interception in back-to-back games and in three of the Lions’ last five contests. In a divisional matchup where possessions are precious, Detroit cannot afford to give the Packers short fields or momentum-swinging opportunities.

Green Bay’s defense thrives on takeaways, and gifting them extra chances could undo strong performances in other areas. A clean game from Goff (especially on early downs) will be critical.

Key No. 3: Pressure the Quarterback

Defensive pressure has been one of Detroit’s most inconsistent areas. In their previous meeting with the Packers, the Lions failed to record a single sack and finished with only two quarterback hits. That lack of disruption allowed Green Bay to cruise to victory and slice up the defense.

Last week’s performance against the New York Giants did little to ease concerns, as Detroit again managed only two sacks. However, the return of Marcus Davenport offers a potential boost. The Lions will also need more from Al-Quadin Muhammad, who has not recorded a sack in three games, and interior lineman Roy Lopez, who has played well but will be counted on for increased impact.

If the Lions can generate sustained pressure, they can force hurried decisions and limit Green Bay’s ability to stretch the field.