5 bold predictions for the Detroit Lions at Jets in Week 15
3. At least five sacks and takeaways for the Lions defense
The Lions defense has 11 takeaways and 15 sacks over their last six games, right in line with the nice stretch of play as a team. Facing Mike White may have lined up some opportunities for sacks and takeaways, but the move to Zach Wilson is even better.
In Wilson’s 20 career starts, he has been sacked at least three times nine times and multiple times 15 times. He has actually thrown multiple interceptions just four times in those 20 starts, but if the Lions’ run defense remains as stout at it has been lately the Jets will have to take to the air a little bit more.
ESPN’s Mina Kimes offered an interesting anecdote on that potential front.
The formula for a good Zach Wilson game is usually quick passes--but the Lions D has been excellent vs throws under 2.5 seconds. Since week 9, they rank:
— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) December 16, 2022
1st in EPA/play
1st in QBR
1st in Y/A
Speed + discipline across the board from players like rookie LB Malcolm Rodriguez 👇 pic.twitter.com/enpHctHINB
Wilson having to drop back more, and perhaps having to let it fly a little further downfield than is ideal for him or the Jets’ offense with him on the field, is an inherently positive formula for Detroit’s defense. A handful of total sacks and takeaways feels like a solid, even pretty comfortable, prediction for Sunday with the Jets’ quarterback downgrade. But it is a little bold.