Lions-Panthers Key Matchup: Decker, Sewell vs Brian Burns

Can Detroit's offensive line keep Brian Burns in check?

Though the Detroit Lions are favorites in Sunday's matchup with the Carolina Panthers, they'll have their hands full with the opposing pass rush. 

Brian Burns has established himself as a top edge rusher amongst the NFL. Through four games in the young 2023 season, he has three sacks and five tackles for loss. 

As a result, the Lions' vaunted offensive line will be tested by Burns and company in the trenches. Left tackle Taylor Decker was listed as questionable but is trending toward playing, meaning Dan Campbell should have both his starting tackles in Sunday's game. 

Still, Decker and Penei Sewell will have to ensure that Burns is neutralized in order for the Lions' offense to be effective. 

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Leaning on their run game, the Lions have been strong offensively through the early stage of the season. David Montgomery has been exceptional and is coming off a 121-yard, three touchdown performance. 

Burns has been effective against the run, earning a 52.9 Pro Football Focus run defense grade. He's at his best as a pass rusher, earning a 78.9 grade, and will try to wreak havoc against a Lions' passing game that will be missing its top receiver. 

He's notched nine total pressures. In Week 4 against Minnesota, he had a sack. Lions coach Dan Campbell is well aware of the impact the talented defender can have on a game. 

"We got to know where he's at," Campbell said. "He is dangerous. He's got true speed ball. When you're a rusher and that's what it starts with for you, that's already an issue [for the o-line]. And then on top of that, he's long-armed, he's got a spin, and he's got a counter. He's an issue, man. He can make you have a long day."

Decker and Sewell will have to ensure that Jared Goff has enough time to connect with his receivers. Josh Reynolds and Kalif Raymond will be among his top targets, and both are decent separators. 

If those receivers are unable to separate from Carolina's secondary, it will put even more pressure on whichever of Detroit's tackles is assigned to Burns on any given snap. 

Burns presents a significant challenge in all aspects of the game for Detroit's offense. He, along with defensive tackle Derrick Brown, give Ben Johnson plenty to take into account. 

As a result, the Lions could utilize screen passes to either Montgomery or receivers such as Raymond and Reynolds to overcome the threat of Carolina's pass rush.  

The Lions and Panthers will be dueling in the trenches throughout Sunday's game. Whoever wins that battle has the strong upper hand to come out victorious.