NFL Predictions Week 12: Detroit Lions at New England Patriots
By Erik Lambert
One of the top games of the year will feature the surging New England Patriots hosting the tough Detroit Lions. How do the NFL predictions shake out?
Subplots
Tom Brady faces biggest test of the year
Part of the reason the Patriots offense have enjoyed so much success of late is because they have found a way to keep Tom Brady on his feet. He’s been sacked just twice in the last four games. That run is going to be seriously tested against arguably the best defensive line in the league. Detroit and their outstanding tandem of defensive tackles and quality edge rushers should be able to apply pressure without blitzing help, which will truly challenge the Patriots to make significant gains.
Key Matchup
Ndamukong Suh against Ryan Wendell
In keeping with that theme, the key matchup for that subplot will be right guard Ryan Wendell and how he plans to stop Ndamukong Suh. Bill Belichick admitted the Lions Pro Bowl defensive tackle is a play wrecker. He’s so hard to block due to his length, power and tenacity. Wendell is a veteran and has played well the past few weeks but this is by far the toughest test he will face all season.
Fantasy Players To Watch
Julian Edelman – WR
Quick and fast receivers have a way of making some plays against the Detroit Lions defense. John Brown did it for Arizona in Week 11. The New England Patriots must look to take similar advantage with Julian Edelman. He is among their most reliable targets but also possesses the traits that can create matchup problems for a Lions secondary that is decent but not overpowering at corner.
Eric Ebron – TE
Coby Fleener was one of the few bright spots for the Indianapolis Colts against the Patriots defense in Week 11. It proves that despite their upgrades at corner, the linebackers and safeties have their problems with tight ends. This may offer Detroit their best opportunity yet to finally showcase their 1st round pick Eric Ebron, who has lingered the background for months behind Golden Tate and Calvin Johnson.
Pick: DET 28, NE 21