As the Detroit Lions prepare for the 2024 NFL season, excitement is building among fans and analysts. After finishing with a strong 12-5 record and making it to the NFC Championship, many believe this could be the year the Lions finally break through. However, not everyone is convinced. Geoff Clark from OutKick offers a more cautious outlook, predicting a potential decline in the team’s performance.
Predicted Regression Despite Favorable Odds
Despite FanDuel giving the Detroit Lions the fourth-best odds to win the Super Bowl at +1200 and the best odds to win the NFC North at +130, Clark foresees a potential regression. He predicts the team might fall to an 8-9 record and finish third in their division. Clark attributes this potential drop-off to the Lions’ success in close games last season, noting, “The Lions seemingly converted every fourth-down and trick play Campbell dialed up.”
Concerns About Quarterback Jared Goff
Clark also raises concerns about quarterback Jared Goff, describing him as “the third-best quarterback in the NFC North.” He questions whether the Lions have the consistency needed to match last year’s success, stating, “However, I cannot back a team without a top-10 quarterback to have double-digit wins.”
Hutchinson’s Potential Shines
On a more positive note, Clark sees promise in young EDGE defender Aidan Hutchinson. Following a standout 11.5-sack season, Hutchinson is considered a strong candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year award, with odds set at +1400. Clark even describes this as his “best bet” for the Detroit Lions in the upcoming season.
Detroit Lions Season Opener Against the Rams
The Lions will kick off their season on September 8, facing the Los Angeles Rams and former Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford. As the season approaches, the spotlight will be on Detroit to see if they can meet the high expectations set by both fans and analysts.
