Why Adrian Peterson Must Step Up For The Lions In Week 2

Going up against the Packers, the Lions will need to establish the running game early and often. Kenny Clark may or may not be able to play in Week 2. If he misses the game, Adrian Peterson should have a chance to wreak havoc on Green Bay.

Being able to be so productive against the Bears’ defense was impressive. They may not be what they were a couple of years ago, but Chicago still has a lot of talent defensively.

Peterson has always seemed to come through with a big game when facing the Packers. Detroit needs to make sure that they give him the ball more this week than they did last. The Lions should be targeting around 20 carries or more for Peterson.

If the Lions want to get Matthew Stafford going, they need to first force the Packers to focus on slowing down the run. Green Bay has two very talented cornerbacks in Kevin King and Jaire Alexander.

Dalvin Cook didn’t receive many touches against the Packers in Week 1, but he did record 50 yards and two scores on 12 carries. If the Vikings had continued handing him the ball, good things might have happened. The Lions can’t afford to lose track of the run game in Week 2.

What should fans be expecting from Peterson this week? Quite simply, he should be able to handle 20 carries for 105 yards and a touchdown or two. Peterson could also get involved more in the passing game with four or five receptions for 30 to 40 yards.

Expect to see the Lions look to get Adrian Peterson more involved early this week. He may be 35 years old, but Peterson is the best running back in Detroit and needs to have a big game to have a chance to knock off the Packers.