The Detroit Lions have been a team that struggles with their run defense for years. However, with some new additions to the team in the past couple of seasons, the question remains: have they improved their run defense rankings in 2023?
In this article, we will take a closer look at the Detroit Lions run defense rankings and analyze their performance over the past few years. We will also take a look at their current roster and coaching staff to see if they have what it takes to improve their rankings this season. Let's get started!
Rankings from Previous Seasons
Before we dive into the current rankings, let's take a look at where the Detroit Lions have stood in the past few seasons. In 2021, the Lions ranked 28th in the league in run defense, allowing an average of 130.1 rushing yards per game. In 2022, they improved slightly, ranking 21st in the league and allowing an average of 115.8 rushing yards per game.
While this improvement was promising, it was not enough to make a significant impact on the team's overall performance. The Lions finished with a record of 6-11 in 2022 and missed the playoffs for the fifth straight season.
The Current Roster
The Lions have made some key additions to their roster in the past couple of seasons, including defensive tackle Derrick Brown and linebacker Isaiah Simmons. Brown, who was drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, is a dominant force in the middle of the defensive line and has the ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Simmons, who was acquired in a trade with the Arizona Cardinals in 2022, is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside. He has a rare combination of size, speed, and athleticism that makes him a threat to any offense.
The Coaching Staff
The Lions also made some changes to their coaching staff in the past couple of seasons. In 2021, they hired defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, who is known for his aggressive defensive schemes and ability to create turnovers.
However, Phillips retired after the 2022 season, and the Lions hired former Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Joe Barry to replace him. Barry is a disciple of former Packers head coach Mike Holmgren and is known for his ability to develop young players.
The Current Rankings
So, where do the Lions stand in terms of their run defense rankings in 2023? As of Week 6, the Lions are ranked 13th in the league in run defense, allowing an average of 99.3 rushing yards per game. While this is a significant improvement from previous seasons, it is still not enough to make a significant impact on the team's overall performance.
However, there is reason for optimism. The Lions have faced some tough opponents in the first few weeks of the season, including the Baltimore Ravens and the Los Angeles Rams. If they can continue to improve their run defense, they may have a chance to make a playoff push in the second half of the season.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions have made some significant improvements to their run defense over the past few seasons, but they still have a long way to go. With some key additions to their roster and coaching staff, they have the potential to be a dominant force in the league. Only time will tell if they can continue to improve and make a playoff push in 2023.
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