Here’s a bold statement: the Detroit Lions might just be the team that derails the Los Angeles Rams’ offensive juggernaut. But here’s where it gets controversial—while most teams dread facing the Rams’ newfound reliance on 13 personnel (one running back, three tight ends), the Lions seem unfazed. Why? Let’s dive in.
The Rams’ offense, under Sean McVay, has historically been a masterclass in adaptability. Yet, their recent embrace of 13 personnel is nothing short of revolutionary. After using it a mere 84 times in McVay’s first nine seasons, they’ve skyrocketed to 170 snaps this year—a staggering 21.4% of their plays, compared to the league average of 5.25%. And this is the part most people miss—this shift isn’t just about running the ball; it’s about dictating defensive behavior.
Take their game against the Arizona Cardinals, where they ran 13 personnel a jaw-dropping 60% of the time. The Cardinals stubbornly stuck to their nickel defense (five defensive backs), and the Rams exploited it, racking up 249 rushing yards and three touchdowns. McVay himself admitted, ‘They dared us to run it, and we did.’ But the Lions aren’t the Cardinals. Detroit thrives in base formations, deploying three linebackers more often than any other team, regardless of the offensive look. According to Sharp Football, they use subpackages like nickel just 35% of the time—the lowest in the NFL. This means they’re uniquely equipped to handle 13 personnel without batting an eye.
Lions coach Dan Campbell explains it well: ‘With 13 personnel, you usually know what’s coming. It’s predictable. But we’re comfortable in our base defense, so it’s not a threat.’ Lions linebacker Jack Campbell echoes this, ‘We’re used to playing with three linebackers. It’s not going to throw us off.’
Here’s the kicker: While the Rams’ 13 personnel has been incredibly efficient (top-10 in both passing and rushing EPA), their success relies on defenses adjusting—something the Lions simply don’t do. This sets up a fascinating chess match: will McVay stick to his 13 personnel playbook, or will he revert to the Rams’ traditional 11 personnel (three wide receivers), where their rushing efficiency drops significantly?
If the Lions can stifle the Rams’ ground game, they could force Los Angeles into uncomfortable territory. But will it be enough for a road upset? That’s the million-dollar question. What do you think? Are the Lions the kryptonite to the Rams’ offensive Superman, or will McVay’s adaptability prevail? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
