ESPN analysts pick three potential surprise teams that could challenge the Eagles in NFC

Will Jared Goff and the Lions take the next step to a playoff run in 2023?

Stephen A. Smith picked the Detroit Lions. He also admitted to a bit of recency bias as his infatuation with them is partially influenced by their strong finish during the most recent regular season campaign.

Smith also mentioned Detroit's passing attack landing in the top ten last year along and their running game. The latter finished among the NFL's top 15 rushing attacks. We can all agree with Smith in that we have seen Jared Goff lead a team to the Super Bowl, but that was a few years ago with Sean McVay giving him direction. Goff was solid last season though. .29 touchdowns versus seven interceptions in 2022 is definitely nothing to sneeze at.

Of all the surprise teams that were mentioned during the segment, the Lions are the most realistic option in terms of challenging the Eagles. Goff has talent around him. Amon-Ra St. Brown anchored the receiving corps. Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery should hold things down in the backfield and give the Lions' rushing attack some punch. Gibbs is also a good receiver.

We know Detriot can score points. The question is this. Will their defense be able to stop the opposing offense from marching down the field consistently during 2023? They often had issues with doing so last season.