Pride of Detroit
In this week’s Honolulu Blueprint, we re-examine the Lions Week 13’s keys to victory and explore where to make adjustments when they face the Bears in Week 16.
The Detroit Lions (12-2) are back on the road in Week 16, traveling with the division to take on their rival, the Chicago Bears (4-10). Detroit won the first battle between these two teams in Week 13, and like the Lions, we’ll revisit our previous game plan to see what worked.
So, let’s take a look at Week 13’s Honolulu Blueprint, explore what was successful, what wasn’t, and any alterations that need to be made for Week 16.
Since the Lions played the Bears three weeks ago, Chicago fired head coach Matt Eberflus and promoted Thomas Brown to interim head coach. In the span of 17 days, Brown went from the Bears passing game coordinator to interim offensive coordinator to head coach—quite a journey. Additionally, Chris Beatty was promoted from wide receivers coach to interim offensive coordinator.
Despite the shuffling of the coaching staff, the Bears have kept pretty close to the same approach to their offensive and defensive schemes. Brown was the OC when we last broke down the Bears offense, and he’s kept his adjustments in place, while Eric Washington was the defensive coordinator and remains in that role. Therefore, there’s not much new to learn, but if you missed it previously, here is our complementary article: Lions Week 13 Preview: Breaking down Bears’ offensive and defensive schemes.
Did it work?
Yes. The Lions took a 16-0 lead into the half and while they only managed to score on the second possession of the third quarter, the work they did early helped them put up enough points to win.
What’s changed?
The Bears have gotten worse in this area. In fact, the Bears have scored zero first-half points against the 49ers and Vikings in their two games since last facing Detroit.
Adjustments?
This should continue to be a priority because, while the Bears attempted a second-half comeback in Detroit, in the previous two games, the Bears have folded once they got behind. They only scored 13 points against the 49ers and just 12 vs. the Vikings.
Did it work?
Yes. The Lions ran the ball 33 times for 194 yards in Week 13, with 20 of those attempts and 148 of their total rushing yards coming via the “right” side of the formation.
What’s changed?
The Lions will be without David Montgomery as he recovers from an MCL injury. In the previous matchup against the Bears, Montgomery ran the ball 21 times.
Adjustments?
With Montgomery sidelined, Craig Reynolds will step into the Lions’ power-back role, but the majority of snaps will land at the feet of Jahmyr Gibbs. In Week 13, Gibbs ran nine times for 97 yards (9.7 yards per carry) and was a problem for...
