The Chargers will host the Lions on Sunday, Nov. 12, at 1:05 p.m. PT.
To get you prepped for the Week 10 bout, here are five key things to know about Los Angeles’ opponent ahead of the matchup.
Well-rounded offense
Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has orchestrated one of the league’s best units. The Lions are second in total offense and sixth in passing and rushing offense. Quarterback Jared Goff has primarily relied on wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and rookie tight end Sam LaPorta. St. Brown is in the top ten in receptions and receiving yards, while LaPorta ranks in the top five in various categories at his position. In the backfield, Detroit has a two-headed monster in David Montgomery and rookie Jahmyr Gibbs. Despite missing three games, Montgomery is still tied for fourth in rushing touchdowns (6). Conversely, Gibbs was limited when Montgomery was on the field, but he showcased an explosive playmaker when he got a full workload. Gibbs is averaging 5.3 yards per carry.
Prolific pass rusher
The Chargers are a game removed from allowing 29 total pressures, 15 of which were allowed by tackles Rashawn Slater and Trey Pipkins. The duo won’t get a break as they will be facing edge defender Aidan Hutchinson, who is up to 46 pressures, which is tied for third in the NFL this season, behind only Raiders’ Maxx Crosby and Cowboys’ Micah Parsons. The Lions rank second in hurries (11.5%) and ninth in pressure percentage (25.5).
Stout run defense
The Lions are middle of the pack at defending the pass but are strong against the run. Detroit is second, allowing only 90.7 rushing yards per game.
Areas of improvement
The Lions are one of the NFC’s best teams, but that doesn’t mean they don’t come without their flaws. Detroit is 24th in red zone offense and 27th in red zone defense.
Look out for…
The Lions’ offensive line. Through eight games, Detroit went through seven different offensive line combinations due to injuries to their primary starters. But their main five are healthy and should play this weekend. Given how great the Lions’ offense has still while missing starters, they should only be that much more efficient.