Who will be the Detroit Lions biggest surprise of 2020?

Where do the Lions need someone to step up the most

Now in seasons past, we have had our hopes dashed by dismal play on the field. The anticipation of finally becoming a winner has been destroyed by the ‘Same old Lions’ rearing their ugly heads. To be honest, after the past two seasons we can’t rule out that possibility this year, but let’s say that Matt Patricia’s ‘Patriot Way’ finally starts to show noticeable dividends.

Let’s say that the Lions are competitive each week, they stay in the playoff race through the end of the season and just make or miss the playoffs. Both of those scenarios would satisfy the edict put forth by the Ford family and after last season, would have to give the Motor City faithful some hope.

If that were to be the case, who could be that biggest surprise that comes out of nowhere to help make the Lions contenders?

This could go in many directions. Perhaps one of the rookie guards, either Jonah Jackson or Logan Stenberg? If the offensive line plays well, then I would have to believe that it will be a result of either one or both cracking the lineup and making a difference.

If the offensive line plays well, the Lions will be explosive.

Kerryon Johnson could be a possibility because of the time he has missed due to injury. What if he stays healthy and rushes for 1,000 yards? Perhaps T.J. Hockenson has a massive break-out year on par with how he played in the opener last season against the Cardinals?

Both are viable thoughts, but both are also players that have much expected from them as well. Players with that type of talent who either struggled as a rookie or with injuries might be a pleasant surprise to have a big season, but it wouldn’t be the biggest surprise.

I think as we look at the 2020 season and project what needs to happen for the Lions to contend, there is one facet of their game that has to answer the bell in order for Detroit to contend in any way shape or form; the defense has to be much improved.

In order for that to happen, there are more players on that side of the ball that will need to have big seasons or surprise everyone with their play to make these Lions contenders.