2. The Lions’ defense showed why it’s No. 1
The Lions’ defense entered Week 13 as the top-ranked defense DVOA, according to Football Outsiders, with the No. 1-rated rush defense and second-best pass rush. However, the unit was exposed a bit over the past two weeks, and not surprisingly both games resulted in losses.
After surrendering 791 total yards of offense to Arizona and New England combined, including 655 yards through the air, the Lions bounced back to hold Jay Cutler and Co. to 269 yards passing with two interceptions. More importantly, after Cutler found the end zone twice in the opening quarter, the Bears were held to three points over the final three en route to Detroit’s 34-17 win.
