Bring On the Lions

By MikeBullock | Wednesday, November 11, 2009 | ( 0 )

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It’s one thing to take on an opponent who is on a roll. It’s another to face one that’s desperate and hurting. And, when you haven’t won a divisional game in over two years, hurting is what you are, make no mistake.

While the Vikings have won the last three meetings, the two victories from last season were by a combined total of six points. To say the reeling Lions played Minnesota tough last year is an understatement. And while the Vikings won their earlier match this season by fourteen, it was anything but a blowout.

What does that mean for this weekend? Based on the recent performances of both teams, it should be every bit the blowout, with Minnesota cruising to a comfortable lead early. But recent history says otherwise.

Detroit’s alleged quarterback of the future, Matthew Stafford is certainly not having a stellar year. Stafford tossed five picks last week to the underachieving Seattle Seahawks, bringing his season total to six. Imagine what could happen if Jared Allen and his three closest friends rattle Stafford early? Even Gosder Cherilus won’t be able to chop block a hole for Stafford to hide in.

Then consider the rumored in fighting between Stafford and Detroit’s only legitimate star player, Calvin Johnson and things are looking bleak in the Motor City.

And, what about the Detroit defense? Collectively, they’ve pulled off a measly sixteen sacks (Vikings Jared Allen and Kevin Williams have combined for 15.5 by themselves), six interceptions and lost two fumbles while giving up 2984 yards and 237 points, landing them in the bottom quarter of the NFL. The all important turnover differential in Detroit is -7. Keep in mind, they’ve not faced an offensive attack like this since week one, where they gave up 45 points to the potent New Orleans Saints.

Meanwhile, Minnesota’s offense has gained 2830 yards, 244 points and only coughed the ball up eight times. With a +5 turnover differential, you can see Minnesota is much more interested in keeping the ball than the Lions seem to be.

But, all the stats mean nothing when kickoff arrives. As everyone knows, division games are usually the hardest to win. And while Minnesota should have this locked up, they better prepare for a fight from a big cat backed into a corner.

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