By Moses Joshua 
Detroit looks to rediscover its offensive rhythm and reclaim NFC dominance against a depleted Washington defense.
The Detroit Lions are searching for a statement win — not just to boost their record, but to reassert their identity. After one of the most disappointing losses of the season to Minnesota, Detroit now faces the Washington Commanders in what could be the perfect get-right opportunity.
Head coach Dan Campbell’s team has dropped two of its last three, sparking concerns about whether the Lions’ early-season swagger has faded. But if there’s one thing this group has proven, it’s that adversity fuels them. “We’ll go about our business over in the corner and get our stuff right and come out humming,” Campbell said earlier this week, signaling confidence that the team’s best football is still ahead.
Now, with Marcus Mariota under center for Washington and the Commanders’ defense missing key playmakers, the Lions have a chance to reestablish control on both sides of the ball. Here are the three numbers that could define Sunday’s matchup.
1. 44.7% Run Rate on Second-and-Long — Finding Rhythm in the Right Places
The Lions have been stubbornly committed to the run, even when it hasn’t worked. They lead the NFL in run rate on second-and-long (44.7%), but that loyalty hasn’t paid off — their 28.6% rushing success rate in those situations ranks near the bottom of the league.
When Detroit stalls on first down, drives tend to unravel. Against the Vikings, they went three-and-out on four consecutive possessions, largely because of inefficiency on early downs.
The Commanders, however, might be the perfect antidote. Dan Quinn’s defense has struggled mightily on second-and-long, allowing 6.4 yards per play (24th) and a 50.9% offensive success rate (27th). With multiple starters out, including Deatrich Wise Jr. and Marshon Lattimore Jr., this unit is vulnerable to being outmuscled and outmaneuvered.
If offensive coordinator John Morton can balance patience with aggression — leaning on play design rather than predictability — the Lions could turn one of their biggest weaknesses into a strength.
2. 69.9% Completion Allowed When Not Blitzing — Attack Through the Air
Washington’s defense has shown flashes of pressure potential, ranking 11th in blitz rate (28.1%). But when they don’t blitz, the cracks become gaping holes.
The Commanders have allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete nearly 70% of their passes for an eye-popping 112.4 passer rating when rushing four — both near the bottom of the league. Their coverage unit has been torched for 8.9 yards per attempt and a 17.9% explosive pass rate, the worst mark in football.
That’s music to Jared Goff’s ears. Detroit has faced pressure-heavy defenses before, from Kansas City to Minnesota, but Washington’s inability to hold up in standard looks presents a clear opportunity. Expect Goff to test the Commanders deep and wide early, exploiting their soft zones and shaky tackling.
Morton should especially emphasize first-down passing, where Washington has surrendered 10.4 yards after catch per reception and a 39.1% explosive play rate when not blitzing. If Detroit can open up the air attack, it will also soften the front for the running game later in the contest.
3. 15.0% Play-Action Rate — A Forgotten Weapon That Needs Revival
Last season, the Lions were masters of play action — leading the NFL in usage and efficiency. This year, they’ve drifted away from that identity. Their current 15.0% play-action rate ranks just 18th, and it’s dropped to a concerning 11.7% since Week 6.
The decline has stripped the offense of its unpredictability, and that’s where Washington’s weaknesses come into play again. Against play-action passes, the Commanders have surrendered a 124.6 passer rating (29th) and 9.1 yards per attempt (26th). They’ve also allowed eight touchdowns to just one interception.
With linebackers like Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu struggling in coverage and safety Quan Martin often out of position on fakes, this is the perfect week for Detroit to reintroduce play action as a staple of its attack.
It’s time to let Jared Goff and his receivers — Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Sam LaPorta — create chunk plays through deception and timing.
A Chance to Reclaim Their Identity
Detroit’s matchup with Washington comes at the ideal moment — a test that could restore confidence ahead of next week’s showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Commanders are reeling, missing key contributors, and struggling on both sides of the ball. The Lions, meanwhile, have a chance to prove they can adapt, evolve, and dominate again.
If the offense capitalizes on its statistical advantages — second-and-long improvement, passing aggression, and revived play-action — the Lions won’t just win; they’ll make a statement.
This is the week for Detroit to remember who they are: a tough, creative, and resilient football team built to respond when it matters most.