Minnesota at Detroit
Time: 1:00 PM (ET) | Sunday
Network: FOX
UPDATE: Lions Win 34-24
For the last 3 years before the NFL season begins, the Detroit Lions have been under intense pressure to make the playoffs. That will not be the case this year, as the NFC has never looked this competitive in quite some time from top to bottom. The Lions division rival the Green Bay Packers are almost a lock to win the NFC North again. Last year, the Minnesota Vikings sneaked into the playoffs as a wildcard; led by Adrian Peterson rushing for over 2,000 yards, where he came up nine shy of Eric Dickerson’s single-season record.
Statically in the past, the Detroit Lions have had a hard time winning against Minnesota with Peterson averaging over 100 yards each game. However, we don’t expect that to be case today, as the Lions should have an easier time slowing down Peterson and containing Christian Ponder. The tandem of Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson are fresh from their lackluster season, following an impressive 2011 playoff berth.
Now with Reggie Bush on the Lions, Stafford and Johnson are looking to re-create their magic from two years ago with an improved run-game. We’re expecting the Lions to win this game to start off their season, with the deepness of the NFC catching up to them down the stretch of the season.