3 Lions who are the largest roadblocks to an Eagles victory in Week 1

Aidan Hutchinson could irritate the Eagles’ offensive line.

Last season, opposing quarterbacks didn’t have much of a reason to consistently fear the Lions’ defensive line and pass rush. Detroit’s defense produced the third-lowest sack total (30 in total) which, if you’re keeping score, was one more than the Eagles produced as they battled their way to a paltry 29 quarterback takedowns.

Both teams looked to improve by adding to their respective rosters. Detriot drafted former Michigan Wolverine Aidan Hutchinson with the second-overall selection in 2022’s NFL Draft following a 14-sack swan song in his final year in Ann Arbor.

Lions staff writer Tim Twentyman recently stated this team gets giddy when thinking about the toughness and potential statistical production their rookie could provide this season. Here’s a quote from assistant general manager Ray Agnew.

"I can’t stop smiling, I love the kid, the kid’s relentless, effort, and (he’s a) much better athlete than you thought he was in the draft process. Man, the things he can do rushing the passer, inside, off the edge, using his hands. He’s very creative as a rusher. I would just say this, we got the right one."

Hutchinson could cause fits for the Eagles’ offensive line on Sunday in Week 1, and Jalen Hurts might be his first sack victim in his career.

Philadelphia should win this game by a big margin on Sunday, but no victory is guaranteed in the National Football League. St. Brown, Swift, and Hutchinson will do everything in their power to spearhead an upset win for the Lions.