Lions Miss Out on the 2 Super Bowl Weapons That Could Have Propelled Them

Detroit’s defense struggled to contain a potent Packers offense, and the Lions missed the playoffs in 2023.

The Detroit Lions had a disappointing 2023 season, finishing with a 9-8 record and missing the playoffs. One of the main reasons for their struggles was their inability to stop opposing offenses. The Lions allowed the most points in the NFL this season, and they were particularly vulnerable to the pass. They gave up an average of 289.1 passing yards per game, which was the second-highest total in the league.

The Lions’ defense was especially weak against the Green Bay Packers in the season finale. The Packers scored 41 points and racked up 473 yards of total offense. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw for 310 yards and four touchdowns, and running back Aaron Jones rushed for 132 yards and a touchdown. The Lions had no answer for the Packers’ offense, and they were eliminated from playoff contention with the loss.

The Lions lacked a pass rush and a shutdown cornerback in 2023, which contributed to their defensive struggles.

One of the main reasons for the Lions’ struggles on defense was their lack of a pass rush. The Lions only had 35 sacks this season, which was the fourth-lowest total in the NFL. They also failed to generate enough pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which allowed them to sit in the pocket and pick apart the Lions’ secondary.

The Lions also lacked a shutdown cornerback in 2023. Jeff Okudah, who was the third overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, struggled to live up to expectations. He allowed a passer rating of 105.3 this season, which was the highest among all Lions cornerbacks. The Lions need to find a way to improve their pass rush and secondary if they want to compete for a playoff spot in 2024.

The Lions have some young players who could help them improve their defense in 2024.

Despite their struggles in 2023, the Lions have some young players who could help them improve their defense in 2024. Aidan Hutchinson, who was the second overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, had a solid rookie season. He finished with 9.5 sacks and 33 tackles for loss. Linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez also had a good season, finishing with 92 tackles and three interceptions.

The Lions also have some promising players in their secondary. Safety Kerby Joseph had a breakout season in 2023, finishing with four interceptions and 13 pass breakups. Cornerback Will Harris also showed some promise, finishing with two interceptions and eight pass breakups.