The Lions could be on the verge of a major error against Dak Prescott and the Cowboys on Thursday Night Football

The Detroit Lions might be heading into a risky matchup against Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday Night Football. Despite being 3.5-point favorites, the Lions face significant challenges.

Injuries have hit Detroit hard. Key offensive players such as multiple starting linemen, star tight end Sam LaPorta, and top wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown could be sidelined or playing hurt. However, the biggest concern may be on the defensive side, where the Cowboys could exploit a major weakness.

Starting cornerback Terrion Arnold has been placed on Injured Reserve. Arnold is Detroit's top cornerback, and the team relies heavily on man coverage, the second-highest rate in the NFL, which has been highly effective. Losing him creates a vulnerability, especially with one of the NFL's best wide receiver duos, George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb, coming to town. While the Lions might usually adjust, Detroit expert Mike Payton expects them to stick with man coverage and increase blitzing.

Payton commented, "I do expect the Lions to continue to play man coverage. Lions DC Kelvin Sheppard mentioned some changes in pass rush schemes, likely including more safety blitzes and overall blitzing, based on past successful adjustments."

Following this strategy could backfire. Prescott ranks as the third-most successful quarterback against blitzes, boasting the second-highest PFF passing grade in such situations. He recently handled complex blitz schemes from the Chiefs even after an early interception. Aggressive blitzing against him could play into his strengths.

Additionally, running press man coverage against Pickens and Lamb is risky. Even when one receiver is doubled, the Cowboys offense tends to thrive against the other. Detroits defensive approach here could provide a clear advantage for Dallas.

While the Lions face obstacles in multiple areas, their defensive strategy against Prescott and the Cowboys might be where they are most vulnerable.

Author: Aiden Foster