The Detroit Lions defense has a major challenge in Week 1, as their rebuilt secondary gets ready to take on the Los Angeles Rams' high-flying offensive attack.
Matthew Stafford is returning to Detroit again. So there will be no shortage of passes flying around Ford Field, with Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua as Stafford's top two targets.
Dan Campbell understands the challenge the Lions will be up against with Nacua and Kupp.
"I've got a lot of respect for both of those guys. They're both tough players. They really do everything. There's things about them that remind me of our guys. They do the dirty work........I feel like Puka’s a little bit, just kind of bigger, plays bigger. Then Cooper is kind of the underneath, wiggle guy. He can run the choice route still, he’s always been able to do that, and I know (Matthew) Stafford’s got a lot of trust in both of those guys."
In last year's Wild Card game, Nacua (nine receptions for 181 yards and a touchdown) had his way with the Lions' secondary. Kupp took a backseat (five catches for 27 yards), albeit with just one fewer target (nine) than Nacua had in the game.
Dan Campbell believes Terrion Arnold is ready for first NFL game
Shutting down the Rams completely feels impossible. But the Lions' secondary will be called upon to make plays to turn the tide at critical moments of the game, just like they did in last year's Wild Card matchup.
Campbell talked about the entire secondary heading into the game against the Rams, but he notably mentioned rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold first.
"It'll be a challenge, but I know our guys are looking forward to this. They really are. I know (Terrion) Arnold is excited. First one. He's ready to go. He does not lack confidence. He's ready, and he practices. When he practices, he works. That's what gets you excited. (Carlton) Davis is back, he's coming off this injury. I thought he had a good day yesterday. Certainly (Brian) Branch and Kerby (Joseph), having them back there working together as well. Amik (Robertson's) back which is great. Ennis (Rakestraw) is working. Like any week, (the Rams) will present challenges."
Rarely is a rookie flawless in their first game. But Campbell's words suggest Arnold will be thrown right into the proverbial fire against one of the top wide receiver duos in the league, and expected to come through more often than not.