When asked how he plans to tackle the high-powered Detroit Lions offense, which has scored 89 points over the last two weeks, Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores responded confidently, saying, “Fight fire with fire. That’s just me.”
The upcoming Vikings-Lions matchup on October 20 is set to be a clash between two of the NFL’s best units: Detroit’s top-ranked offense and Minnesota’s defense, which leads the league in Defense-adjusted Value Over Average (DVOA). The Vikings, currently undefeated at 5-0, have the league’s best point differential at +63, just ahead of the 4-1 Lions at +60.
While both teams feature star players, the most compelling battle may be between Detroit offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and Flores. Johnson’s Lions lead the league in scoring, averaging 30.2 points per game, while Flores’ defense has allowed just 15.2 points per game, ranking among the top five in several defensive categories. Despite the Lions’ recent 47-9 win over the Cowboys, Flores acknowledged their strength, noting that Detroit plays physical football with few weaknesses.
Minnesota’s unexpected 5-0 start has been fueled by a defense that pressures quarterbacks relentlessly. Flores’ unit has led the NFL in pressures (84) and interceptions (11) through five games, despite facing a tough slate of quarterbacks. In their Week 7 matchup, getting pressure on Lions quarterback Jared Goff will be crucial. While Goff excels when blitzed, leading the league with 12.1 yards per attempt, he’s also prone to mistakes, ranking high in both interceptions and turnover-worthy plays under pressure. The Vikings’ league-leading pressure and blitz rates (32.6% and 41.6%, respectively) could be key against Goff.
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However, Detroit’s top-rated offensive line, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF), will present one of the toughest challenges for Minnesota’s pass rush. The Vikings are favored by 2.5 points at home.
The Lions will also be missing a key player on defense, Aidan Hutchinson, who was a frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year before suffering a season-ending leg injury. Hutchinson led the league with 8.0 sacks and 45 pressures before his injury. His absence leaves Detroit with fewer proven pass rushers, as their next most productive defenders, Levi Onwuzurike and Alim McNeill, have significantly fewer pressures.
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