Buy or Sell: The Lions Can Defeat the Raiders in a Shootout

In reviewing game film to preview the Lions-Raiders, one thing became quite evident for both squads.

Both the Lions and Raiders do not feature quality defenses.

The Lions rank near the bottom of the NFL in many defensive statistics, including points given up per game, total yards given up per game, opponents passing and rushing yards.

While the Lions continue to struggle mightily to establish a reliable running game, the Raiders have established the ability to stop the run. Opponents are rushing an average of 92.9 yards per game against the Raiders, which ranks ninth in the NFL.

The Lions offense has been forced to become one-dimensional due to their year-long struggle to establish a consistent running game.

Matthew Stafford was called upon against the Giants to lead the way and he delivered, much like he has the entire season.

Against the Raiders, Stafford and the Lions should once again look to pass the ball. One could argue that the offense should pass at a much higher rate than normal in order to have success.

Logan Lamorandier of SI Lions Maven wrote earlier on Friday:

"Going into Week 9, Stafford has targeted receivers 20-plus yards down the field at a higher rate than any other quarterback in the NFL.

The 11th-year signal caller is on pace to set a career high for average depth of target.

In fact, 11.4 percent of Stafford's throws have gone 20-plus yards down the field."

Expect to see the Lions take several chances deep against the less than stellar pass defense of the Raiders.

On Sunday, both teams will have their fair share of opportunities to score offensively.

In fact, this could end up being the highest scoring game in the league this season.

Do you think the Lions can win in a shootout?

Is their anything the Lions defense must do in order to limit the Raiders?

Leave a comment below and let's discuss.

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