The hype that was surrounding the Detroit Lions when the season started seems to be real, as they have gotten off to an excellent 4-1 start and sit on top of the standings in the NFC North.

Quarterback Jared Goff is off to a good start this season after an outstanding 2022 campaign, and they’re looking like a definite playoff team that just may win their first postseason game since the 1991 campaign.

They will face an interesting test this Sunday when they visit the surprising Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have a 3-1 record and are led by a resurgent Baker Mayfield. Mayfield, the much-maligned former No. 1 overall pick, has played solid ball, and their defense held a strong New Orleans Saints team to just nine points in Week 4.

Detroit’s offense has been its strong point dating back to last season, but two of its key offensive threats — running back Jahmyr Gibbs and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown — are banged up.

Gibbs, who is second on the Lions’ depth chart, has just 179 rushing yards but is averaging 4.6 yards per carry through four games. Thanks to him and starter David Montgomery, the team is seventh in rushing yards and third in rushing touchdowns.

St. Brown, who made the Pro Bowl last season, has put up 331 receiving yards and two touchdowns in four games this season.

After playing against the Buccaneers, Detroit will be tested once again when it faces off against the Baltimore Ravens on the road in Week 7. Fortunately, its schedule will get easier from that point on until a Week 17 showdown in Texas against the Dallas Cowboys.

Although the Cowboys have lost steam over the last three weeks, they’re still a threat and will likely be fighting for playoff positioning when the Lions meet them on Dec. 30.

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