The Detroit Lions enter Week 1 looking to establish a new tone after a lackluster 2025 season. An early matchup with the New Orleans Saints provides head coach Dan Campbell and Co. with an opportunity to do just that.
Detroit remains one of the league's most electric teams despite an offseason of turnover. The foundation is unchanged with the return of Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Penei Sewell, however the offense will now be directed by first-year offensive coordinator Drew Petzing.
Aidan Hutchinson and Jack Campbell anchor a defense hoping to take a step forward after a forgettable campaign last season.
The Lions are favored to win Sunday. But, beyond the final result, this franchise needs to reestablish who they are and how
they play. Petzing's first regular-season game as Detroit's play-caller will be a chance to prove this unit can return to the dominant form it took in 2024. How Petzing's philosophy fuses with the team's tendency for physicality, motion and a steady rushing attack will be a story to follow.
If the Lions can do these three things, they should begin the 2026 season with a win:
Feed Jahmyr Gibbs
It's no secret, the Lions' run game is the offense's catalyst. When Detroit is running the ball effectively, it forces defenses to account for every level on the field. Getting Gibbs involved through traditional rushes and as a receiver out of the backfield will create favorable matchups for Jared Goff to find and exploit.
Keep Jared Goff clean
Very few quarterbacks can dissect a defense with the precision of Jared Goff. That is, as long as he has a clean pocket. Goff's success will always depend on giving him time, so protection is a major priority for Dan Campbell and company. This becomes even more important on obvious passing downs. The Lions have one of the league's most dynamic skill position groups, so if there's time St. Brown, Sam LaPorta, Jameson Williams or Isaac TeSlaa will be open.
Eliminate explosive plays
Yes, the Lions will field a patchwork secondary in Week 1. The unit will be down two of its top four players in Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch, who both begin the season on the PUP list. With that said, the only chance Detroit has of limiting big plays is to get pressure on the quarterback.
Aidan Hutchinson and the defensive front need to create pressure while the backend keeps everything in front of them.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like.
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: 3 keys to victory for Detroit Lions in Week 1 matchup vs. Saints
