Detroit Lions vs Atlanta Falcons: What to watch for in week 3

The Detroit Lions play the Atlanta Falcons in a week 3 matchup of undefeated teams. Let’s go over some key things to keep an eye on.

With both the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons entering Sunday undefeated, this should make for an entertaining matchup between two top NFC teams. The Lions performed very well on Monday night handling the New York Giants with ease.

Meanwhile, the Falcons faced the Green Bay Packers and came out of the gate blazing. So with both teams coming off big wins, let’s look at some things to key in on Sunday.

1. Is the Lions defense for real?

After the victory in the first week, I was impressed with the Lions defense. On Monday, they looked just as good if not better. However, neither of their first two opponents have as much firepower as the Falcons.

Matt Ryan is the reigning NFL MVP, and his supporting cast is a huge reason why. Julio Jones, Devonta Freeman, Tevin Coleman and even Austin Hooper all have the ability to make huge plays. In the first two games, the Lions had to focus on shutting one superstar down in order to stall the offenses, this week they have a few players to stop.

If the Lions can continue their powerful play on Sunday I won’t even stutter calling them one of the best defenses in the entire NFL.

2. Will Jarrad Davis play?

Last week, rookie linebacker Jarrad Davis left the game with a concussion after being bumped into a play. Up to that point, he had been all over the field for the Lions and seems to be on his way to stardom. If he can’t go, that would most likely mean Tahir Whitehead jumps back as the team’s middle linebacker, and if that’s the case I’m worried.

Last season, Whitehead was a tackling machine, but not a great option against the pass. And with a team like the Falcons, I’m worried about how well they will pass the ball. If Whitehead is slotted in the middle he’s going to have a long day.

If Davis does manage to play though, it’ll be a huge test for him seeing how he plays against one of the best quarterbacks in the league.

3. No Vic Beasley

Falcons outside linebacker Vic Beasley became a monster last season. He continued that stellar play at the beginning of this year but was injured last week. This being the first week without Beasley could hurt this defense top to bottom. A star like Beasley commands a lot of attention, so without him, the rest of the defense is going to have a much harder time.

If the Falcons had already played a few games without Beasley, I think they would be fine. But since this is the first time they have to take the field sans him, they may have some growing pains.

Next: Who are the 2017 Detroit Lions?

Matthew Stafford and co. will most likely take advantage of the depleted pass rush giving a chance at some deep passes. And with deep balls, comes a higher chance of Marvin Jones touchdowns and celebrations.