Detroit Lions : Match Up Advantages

Dec 7, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions tight end Eric Ebron (85) makes a catch and looks for running room during the third quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Everyone knows of highly discussed matchups in this game. Aqib Talib vs. Megatron, Broncos star studded defense vs. the Lions highly questionable offensive line, but some of the less talked about matchups could decide the outcome of the game.

Glover Quin In Center Field

Peyton Manning is still a very good quarterback. However, he has lost some velocity on his passes. Glover Quin had a career year in 2014 and had 7 interceptions, and already has a pick six this season. In Austin’s defense Quin is given the freedom to roam and is incredibly disciplined in reading routes.

Running Back By Committee

Denver has allowed an average of 110 yards per game on the ground so far this season. Opponents are averaging 4.3 ypc against them. In last week’s game against the Chiefs, the Broncos let Jamaal Charles eat up 125 yards on the ground. . Opponents are averaging 4.3 ypc against them. Although the Broncos defense is incredibly stout, there is some weakness in their run stopping abilities. The stable of Detroit Lions running backs need to see consistent carries as well as consistent run blocking. At times the offensive line has looked good run blocking. If they can run the ball early, expect things to open up in the passing game as well.

Lions Defensive Line vs. Broncos Offensive Line

Through two games the Broncos have allowed Peyton Manning to be sacked 7 times. The Lions defense comes into the game with 3 sacks on the year, 2 of those sacks belonging to Ezekiel Ansah. The Lions defensive line poses a number of problems for the Broncos offense. When the Lions defense does get penetration, they are looking to wreak havoc and create turnovers.

Eric Ebron vs. Linebackers

Through two games Eric Ebron has 9 receptions for 96 yards and two touchdowns. Ebron is incredibly athletic and posses problems for linebackers and secondaries in coverage. In addition to matchup problems, Ebron will be a quick target in the event that Matthew Stafford is under duress from the Broncos defensive line. Look for Ebron to make the most of his opportunities, in this game in particular.

Special Teams

The Lions have electrifying returners in Golden Tate and Ameer Abdullah. Tate is averaging 12 yards per punt peturn while Abdullah is averaging 31.5 yards per kick return (long of 48 yards). At this point, the Lions need a spark. Starting with better field position generally equates to more points. With punter Sam Martin is averaging a pedestrian 39.2 yards per punt, the battle in field position will be increasingly important in this game. The Denver Broncos have very good coverage units, but can they match the speed and agility of Tate and Abdullah?

Next: Lions Injury Report

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