The Detroit Lions enter Week 11 on a dominant seven-game winning streak and hold a four-game winning edge against the Jacksonville Jaguars dating back to 2012. But this showdown promises unpredictability, as the Jaguars’ unique mix of potential and inconsistency could throw Detroit off its game. Here, we’ll break down three crucial matchups and the stats that could swing this game either way.
Defensive Battle: Can the Jaguars Contain Jared Goff? Jacksonville’s defense has had a rocky season, particularly in pass coverage, where injuries have left their secondary vulnerable. Key stats paint a concerning picture:
106.2 passer rating allowed (32nd in NFL)
69.9% completion rate allowed (31st)
7.2 yards per pass (32nd)
However, Jacksonville’s defense has started to tighten up recently, holding opposing quarterbacks to an 84.6 passer rating over the past three games and allowing only five passing touchdowns in their last four. For Lions quarterback Jared Goff, recovering from a rough five-interception streak, this game is a chance to capitalize on Jacksonville’s weaknesses, yet he’ll need to contend with their recent defensive cohesion. The outcome of this clash could shape the game.
Can Jacksonville Stymie Detroit’s Ground Game? The Jaguars’ run defense has been inconsistent, particularly when forced into dime packages, where they allow an alarming +1.13 EPA per rush. Detroit’s offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is adept at leveraging mismatches, and with one of the NFL’s most reliable offensive lines, he’s likely to exploit Jacksonville’s vulnerable formations. Look for creative plays and players like Amon-Ra St. Brown used in motion to pull the Jaguars’ defense out of position. How Jacksonville adjusts to these challenges in real-time could determine their ability to stay competitive.
Jacksonville’s Ground Game Without Tank Bigsby With Trevor Lawrence out and Tank Bigsby sidelined, the Jaguars’ rushing game will rely heavily on Travis Etienne, known for breaking tackles and adding yards after contact (YACo). Remarkably, Jacksonville ranks first in YACo per attempt, with both Etienne and Bigsby excelling here:
Tank Bigsby: 4.9 YACo/Att (1st in NFL)
Travis Etienne: 4.0 YACo/Att (2nd in NFL)
But the Lions’ defense ranks second in limiting YACo, allowing just 2.41 per attempt. If they force Jacksonville into predictable passing situations, Detroit will have a distinct advantage, turning up the pressure on Jacksonville’s offense.
Final Thoughts: Can the Jaguars Defy Expectations? While Detroit is the favorite, Jacksonville’s recent defensive uptick and Etienne’s potential could surprise. This clash will hinge on execution: Goff’s ability to protect the ball, the Lions’ defensive pressure, and Jacksonville’s offensive creativity. It’s a must-watch showdown of grit, strategy, and stats.
