Detroit Lions vs. Washington Commanders: 3 key matchups for Week 2
By Zach Payne
Matchup 1: Lions linebackers vs. Commanders RB Antonio Gibson
In the aforementioned Commanders’ win over the Jaguars last week, Gibson proved to be an essential part of the offense. He ran the ball 14 times and added seven catches on eight targets. He finished the day with 130 total yards (72 receiving).
Gibson’s pass-catching ability is the main point of emphasis. If Detroit’s linebackers can work to take away one of the top options through the air for Carson Wentz, it will force more downfield shots and subsequently more potential mistakes.
Are the Lions’ linebackers up to the task? That remains to be seen. A week ago they were too busy trying to defend the run. While that will be a focus again this week, Washington doesn’t have the offensive line or the ultra-mobile quarterback to make the Lions’ life harder the way Philadelphia did. J.D. McKissic is also a proficient pass catcher out of the Commanders’ backfield, though he took a back seat to Gibson last week.
Whoever draws coverage responsibilities against Gibson in particular (Alex Anzalone, Malcolm Rodriguez, Derrick Barnes or even Chris Board) will have to be up to the task on Sunday.