The Detroit Lions’ defense has looked strong to start the 2025 season, but their toughest challenge yet is waiting in Week 3 — and it doesn’t get much tougher than the Baltimore Ravens, who now boast one of the most dangerous offensive combinations in football.
Lamar Jackson, one of the league’s most electrifying quarterbacks, is already a nightmare for defenses. Add in Derrick Henry, the bruising running back who can wear down even the most physical front sevens, and suddenly the Ravens present a two-headed attack few teams are built to handle. Baltimore has leaned into its physical identity this year, and stopping them requires near-perfect execution.
For Detroit, the matchup will test every layer of their defense. The defensive line led by Aidan Hutchinson must set the tone early, controlling the edges to keep Jackson from breaking free on designed runs and broken plays. Linebackers like Jack Campbell and Alex Anzalone will have their hands full trying to slow Henry’s downhill style while also respecting Baltimore’s play-action. And in the secondary, young standouts Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph will need to stay disciplined against Jackson’s improvisation.
Head coach Dan Campbell has built his team on toughness and resilience, but this matchup is about more than grit. It’s about discipline, gap control, and winning one-on-one battles in the trenches.
The Lions have made a name for themselves by rising to big moments, and now they’ll get a chance to prove if this defense is truly among the NFL’s elite. One thing is certain — how Detroit handles the Ravens’ one-two punch of Lamar and Henry will say a lot about their championship potential.
Ravens Bring the Heat: Can Detroit’s Defense Contain Lamar and Henry?
