The Detroit Lions have emerged as one of the surprise powerhouses this NFL season, boasting an impressive 10-1 record, their best start in nearly nine decades. In a league driven by explosive offenses and stout defenses, the Lions have carved a niche for themselves by excelling in all three phases of the game—offense, defense, and special teams.
Dominance on Both Sides of the Ball
Statistically, the Lions’ performance has been nothing short of stellar. They rank in the top 10 in Expected Points Added (EPA) per game across offense, defense, and special teams, a testament to their balanced attack. The defensive side of the ball, in particular, has been formidable. Allowing an average of just 16.6 points per game, the Lions’ defense is the second-stingiest in the NFL this season. This defensive prowess has only improved since Week 6, even after the unfortunate injury to rising star Aidan Hutchinson, with opponents scored a mere 15.3 points per game over that span.
The Lions have recently showcased a trend of tightening the screws on opposing offenses even further; they have held their opponents to under seven points in consecutive games as they head into their annual Thanksgiving matchup. Remarkably, they have not allowed a touchdown in ten straight quarters, a streak indicative of disciplined play and strategic acumen.
Star Performers in the Secondary
A significant factor in the Lions' defensive success has been the stellar performances of safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch. In the 2024 season, both have earned exceptionally high marks from Pro Football Focus, with grades of 91.3 for Joseph and 88.1 for Branch. These standout ratings are backed by impressive statistics: the duo has combined for 11 interceptions without allowing a single touchdown in coverage. Such proficiency in the secondary has made life difficult for opposing quarterbacks, holding them to a passer rating of 20.0 or below when targeting these two playmakers.
Kerby Joseph, a third-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft, has quickly become a foundational piece of the Lions’ defense. His unique skill set is highlighted by his rare achievement of over 200 tackles and 15 interceptions in just 40 career starts. Joseph’s ability to disrupt both in coverage and against the rush makes him a versatile threat and a nightmare for offensive coordinators.
Brian Branch, selected in the second round of the 2023 draft, has proven himself to be a dynamic complement to Joseph. In just 25 career games, Branch has already surpassed 125 tackles while defending more than 25 passes. His aggressive yet calculated style of play has added an edge to the Lions’ secondary.
Limiting the Deep Ball
The Lions have also been particularly efficient in stifling deep-threat attempts from their opponents. They have allowed only one completion on throws of 20 or more air yards inside the numbers this season, further underscoring their ability to control game momentum by eliminating explosive plays.
Special Teams as a Secret Weapon
While offense and defense often grab the headlines, Detroit’s special teams have been an unsung hero in their ascent to the top of the league standings. Contributing significantly to their top-10 EPA ranking in special teams, the unit has been both a field position changer and a points contributor—an often overlooked but crucial aspect of sustained success in the NFL.
As the season progresses, the Lions continue to defy expectations and set new standards for success. With a dynamic roster full of rising talents and seasoned veterans, they look poised to maintain their grip on one of the league’s best records. The upcoming Thanksgiving game will serve as another test for a team that is quickly making history and forging a promising path toward the postseason. The Lions’ fans have every reason to be hopeful for a continued spectacular run, as all signs point to a season that may reshape the franchise’s future.