The Detroit Lions Have That 2013 Seahawks Look

Nov 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions running back Theo Riddick (25) celebrates his touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Ford Field. Detroit won 20-16. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Golden Tate said he wanted to join the Detroit Lions because he wanted to catch the ball more.  There may have been another reason.  He better than anybody knows what a championship team looks like, having played on the 2013 Seattle Seahawks squad that dominated Denver back in January.  At 7-2, he has to think his new team bears a striking resemblance.  Why?

Dominant Defense

The ’13 Seahawks had arguably one of the best defenses ever, suffocating opponents through the air, attacking quarterbacks in the pocket and giving ground sparingly against the run.  A lot of it was talent but also a swagger that was hard to miss with guys like Earl Thomas and Richard Sherman.  This Lions defense has that same look.  Led by Ndamukong Suh, their front is the best in football, wrecking offensive lines each week and enabling athletic linebackers like Deandre Levy to excel.  They are the #1 defense overall, allowing just 290 yards total per game and haven’t allowed a 30-point game all season.

Knack For The Comeback

Another factor that is falling into place is the ability to come back late in games.  The Detroit Lions have had to do it three-straight weeks.  They fell behind 17-3 against the Saints, 21-0 against the Falcons and needed a late touchdown with under a minute left to escape Miami 20-16.  The Seahawks were much the same way in 2013.  They fell behind in a number of ball games but because of their great defense were able to bide their time, keep plugging and pull the wins out at the end.

It’s the kind of wins that build character and confidence.  Dare one say it also represents a championship formula?