The Detroit Lions have an important matchup ahead of them against the top-seeded Philadelphia Eagles in Week 11's edition of Sunday Night Football. The Eagles have established an identity as a team that finds ways to win even when it is clear that things aren't falling in their favor. Still, there is no denying that if Detroit is going to be forced to travel to Philadelphia, there doesn't appear to be a more perfect time.
The Eagles are still struggling offensively, managing to score only 10 points against the Green Bay Packers, and are coming off a short week after playing on Monday Night Football. While the Lions had a normal week of rest and are coming off a get-right game against the Washington Commanders, Philadelphia is on the second leg of playing back-to-back NFC showdowns. There is not only the mental fatigue of facing two difficult games in consecutive weeks, but also the physical aspect of coming off a short week.
On top of all of this, you have star receiver AJ Brown pitching a fit due to only getting three targets a week ago. While Brown has continued to say the right things to the media, this is typical of a star receiver placing their individual stats above wins. This was evident after his latest implosion following the Eagles' pivotal victory over the Green Bay Packers.
Lions Have the Perfect Timing to Upset Struggling Eagles Offense
Furthering this case is the fact that the Lions' offense is just taking off with head coach Dan Campbell taking over play-calling in Week 10. This resulted in a dominant offensive effort that turned the clock back to the team Detroit was a season ago under then-OC Ben Johnson. Each of the team's stars had an early impact as Campbell made a point to have Jared Goff spread the ball around on offense, while also putting defensive pressure on the Commanders' offense from the opening whistle.
This is exactly what the Lions need to do in Philadelphia to have a chance to win this game. You already know that Brown is going to be targeted consistently based on the diva receiver's actions over the last week. Shading extra coverage his way and getting your offense rolling early will be key to putting the Eagles in an early hole and placing their roster on its heels.
Detroit should have an easier time accomplishing this when you consider the fact that Philadelphia's defense has just lost a key addition in Jaire Alexander. Shortly after joining the team, the veteran corner opted to walk away from football to focus on his mental and physical health.
All of these factors paint a picture of why this is the perfect time for the Lions to take on the defending champs. While this isn't to suggest the path will be easy or even favorable in a rough road situation, many factors are falling in the Lions' favor. Detroit must take advantage by putting early pressure on Philadelphia's offense, understanding that this is likely a tired team with no shortage of in-house drama.
For the Lions, there couldn't be a better scenario for the franchise to take on the Eagles on the road. The stage is set for the upset and a win that should cement Detroit as the clear NFC favorites.