The Lions' Roar: Detroit's Stellar Start to the NFL Season
As the NFL season progresses, the Detroit Lions are turning heads with an impressive 10-1 record, marking their best start since 1934. This season, the Lions rank among the elite, boasting top-10 positions in Expected Points Added (EPA) per game across offense, defense, and special teams. Such balanced proficiency across all phases is an indicator of their superb performance and meticulous team coordination.
A Defense Like No Other
The Lions' defense stands out this year, allowing the second-fewest points per game in the league at a mere 16.6. Since Week 6, despite the absence of key player Aidan Hutchinson due to injury, the defensive effort has only intensified, reducing this average further to an impressive 15.3 points per contest. As the team entered Thanksgiving, they showcased a formidable streak, holding opponents to under seven points in consecutive matches and remarkably shutting out touchdowns for ten straight quarters.
Integral to this defensive powerhouse are safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch. Performance metrics speak volumes for the duo, with Pro Football Focus grading them at 91.3 and 88.1 respectively for the 2024 season. Together, Joseph and Branch have intercepted 11 passes and, notably, have yet to allow a touchdown in coverage this season. Both are singularly successful in limiting quarterbacks to passer ratings of 20.0 or lower when targeted, a rare feat they claim as their own this year.
The Making of Stars
Kerby Joseph, a third-round pick from the 2022 NFL Draft, has quickly established himself as a pivotal player. Uniquely, Joseph is the only player since 2000 to amass over 200 tackles while intercepting 15 passes through his initial 40 starts. His outstanding presence on the field is mirrored by Brian Branch, a second-round selection in 2023. Branch has demonstrated versatility and effectiveness, surpassing 125 tackles and defending more than 25 passes in just 25 games. The Lions’ ability to consistently thwart the deep ball has also been pivotal; the team has permitted just one completion on throws of 20 or more air yards inside the numbers this season.
Unyielding Special Teams
Beyond their defensive triumphs, the Lions’ special teams have significantly bolstered their top-10 EPA standing. Performances in both field positioning and scoring opportunities have contributed to the team's overall efficacy. While the offense and defense often receive the spotlight, Detroit's special teams' contributions underline a total team effort fostering the current success.
This confluence of proficient play from Joseph, Branch, and the entire Detroit defense — combined with their offense and special teams — illustrates a team that has seemingly found the formula for balanced success. As the Lions continue this season, eyes will be squarely fixed on how they maintain and build upon their current trajectory. If their opening flourish is anything to judge by, 2024 might just be the year they roar back into the spotlight.