3 Players That Must Shine to Win against Houston Texans

Read more on who must perform well this week in order for the Detroit Lions to defeat the Houston Texans

In order for the Detroit Lions to leave Ford Field with a victory on Thursday, these three members of the Detroit Lions' roster must play at a high level.

1.) Quarterback Matthew Stafford

The Texans' pass defense is a weakness of the team. Detroit offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell must allow the team's franchise passer to fling the football all over Ford Field on Thanksgiving. 

Being shutout is never something an offense wants to occur. So, retribution must be sought out at the expense of the Texans' defense. 

Look for tight end T.J. Hockenson to be involved early and often in this week's gameplan. 

2.) Wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr. 

When Jones and Stafford are clicking, Detroit's offense is highly productive. 

Jones has the ability to create separation and get open for big gains.

Against Houston's secondary, Jones should find himself with opportunities to make plays to help Detroit's cause.

If Jones is not productive, Detroit's offense will suffer a similar fate to the one it did a week ago against Carolina.

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© Kirthmon F. Dozier via Imagn Content Services, LLC

3.) Linebacker Jamie Collins

The veteran linebacker is at the heart of Detroit's rush defense, and currently ranks 15th in PFF’s run defense grade. 

It is expected that Houston will focus on its passing game this week, as its rushing offense is subpar.

If Detroit's defensive line can force pressure against a Texans offensive line devoid of impactful playmakers, Collins can secure solid numbers on Thanksgiving.

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John Maakaron
JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland  Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!