The Detroit Lions have battled plenty of star quarterbacks, but even they know what’s coming in Week 3 is a challenge unlike any other. His name? Lamar Jackson.
The Ravens’ franchise quarterback has been called a lot of things throughout his career — explosive, unpredictable, dangerous. But this week, one description stood out above the rest: a “unicorn.” It’s a fitting word for a player who continues to redefine what the quarterback position can be.
For the Lions defense, Jackson presents a two-headed monster. Not only does he have the ability to tear apart defenses with his arm, but his legs make him arguably the most dangerous open-field runner in football. Preparing for him means every assignment, every read, and every angle has to be perfect — because one misstep can turn into a highlight reel touchdown.
Detroit’s defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard admitted the game plan against Jackson can’t be the same as it is against traditional quarterbacks. “You don’t stop him, you just hope to contain him,” Sheppard explained earlier this week. That means discipline in the pass rush, smart positioning in the secondary, and keeping an eye on him at all times.
The Lions defense has shown steady improvement and toughness under Dan Campbell, but facing Jackson will be the ultimate “temperature check” for how far they’ve really come. If they can keep him in check, it’ll prove this defense is ready for the NFL’s elite. If not, Jackson could single-handedly tilt the game in Baltimore’s favor.
One thing’s for sure — fans will be watching closely. And for the Lions, stopping the “unicorn” may be the biggest statement they can make early in the 2025 season.
Dual-Threat Nightmare: Why Lamar Jackson Could Be Detroit’s Biggest Roadblock
