NFL WEEK 3 MATCHUPS
Sunday, 1 p.m. EDT, Ford Field, Detroit
TV: Fox
Spread (BetMGM):
Lions by 3.5
Falcons’ keys to victory: The Falcons have had success with their rushing attack and a ballcontrol offense. RB Bijan Robinson had his breakout game in Week 2, and he pairs with RB Tyler Allgeier to make a strong combination. QB Desmond Ridder can’t get gun-shy, though. Defensively, the pass rush must perk up beyond blitzing from LBs Kaden Elliss and Troy Andersen. Atlanta has done well to get off the field on third downs, but amping up the pressure could create more takeaway opportunities for play-making S Jessie Bates and CB A.J. Terrell.
Lions’ keys to victory: The Lions need more than one sack through two games. Detroit’s run defense, led by LB Derrick Barnes, has been solid, but other than DE Aidan Hutchinson creating pressure, the pass rush has been nonexistent. Getting rookie RB Jahmyr Gibbs rolling should help the hit-and-miss Lions offense. The three giveaways in Detroit’s Week 2 loss were uncharacteristic and must stop in order to outscore the Falcons. Head coach Dan Campbell might consider taking more points in obvious field goal situations instead of risking it on fourth down.
Matchup to watch: Lions DT Alim McNeill vs. Falcons G Chris Lindstrom. McNeill is Detroit’s primary run stuffer up front, while he takes care of blockers to let linebackers behind him make plays in the run game. Lindstrom is one of the best all-around guards and a consistent force in opening holes.
Who wins? The Lions have more ways to create points and have a hungry crowd behind them.
Lions 30-26