| Detroit Lions (1-1) at Baltimore Ravens (1-1) | |||
| Game Details: Monday, September 22, 8 p.m. EST | |||
| Location: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD | |||
| Where to Watch: ESPN |
The Detroit Lions (1-1) head to M&T Bank Stadium to take on the Baltimore Ravens (1-1) in a crucial Week 3 showdown. Both teams are looking to climb above the .500 mark after rebounding from disappointing Week 1 losses and Week 2 wins with explosive offensive performances.
Betting Odds
| Team | Spread | Money Line | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Lions | +5.5 | +198 | Over 52.5 |
| Baltimore Ravens | -5.5 | -240 | Under 52.5 |
** Odds Subject to Change – Courtesy of FanDuel**
Tale of The Tape
| Detroit Lions | Team Stats – Avg Per Game | Baltimore Ravens |
|---|---|---|
| 32 | Points Per Game | 40.5 |
| 267 | Passing Yards Per Game | 195.5 |
| 111.5 | Rushing Yards Per Game | 141.5 |
| 24 | Opponents Points Per Game Allowed | 29 |
| 196.5 | Opponents Pass Yards Allowed | 298 |
| 106 | Opponents Rush Yards Allowed | 111.5 |
Key Details
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions’ offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff, exploded in Week 2. After a lackluster performance against the Green Bay Packers in the opener, Goff had one of the best games of his career against the Bears, posting a near-perfect passer rating of 156.0. The key was a significantly improved performance from the offensive line, which allowed just two pressures after giving up 12 in Week 1. They’ll face a tougher challenge against a historically great Baltimore pass rush, but if Goff is given time, he has the weapons to keep pace in a shootout.
However, the Lions’ run game has been surprisingly inconsistent. Despite a 177-yard rushing day against Chicago, the advanced stats show a unit that is still finding its footing. The run blocking has been an issue, with every lineman outside of Penei Sewell grading poorly through two games. Defensively, the pass rush has struggled to generate consistent pressure, and the secondary has underperformed, ranking near the bottom of the league in several key categories. They will have their hands full with Baltimore’s dynamic offense.
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are guided by the electric Lamar Jackson, a two-time MVP who has been ruthlessly efficient to start the season. Despite not putting up huge yardage numbers, Jackson leads an offense that ranks first in passer rating and third in dropback EPA. He has a new primary weapon in wide receiver Zay Flowers, who has quickly become his favorite target. The passing game will look to exploit a Lions secondary that has been vulnerable to big plays.
On the ground, the Ravens feature a two-headed monster with Jackson and running back Derrick Henry. After a quiet Week 2 against a stout Browns defense, Henry is looking for a bounce-back performance. The Ravens’ run game was dominant in Week 1, and they have the personnel to control the clock against a Lions run defense that showed some cracks last week. Baltimore’s defense, however, will be tested. While their pass rush has been a staple for years, they have only three sacks this season and will be missing key players, potentially giving Goff the time he needs to operate.
Prediction
Did you know that this game should not be a 5.5-point spread? It seems like Vegas is daring us to bet on this game. The Lions probably won’t win, but it should be a close game and should cover. Vegas dared me to do it.
