Today, the second week of the NFL season begins for the Detroit Lions as they’ve traveled to San Francisco to take on Jimmy Garoppolo and the 49ers.

Garoppolo and the 49ers went up against the Minnesota Vikings during week one and lost 24-16.

The Lions’ outcome was a much different story. New head coaches have often had success during their first NFL game. However, Matt Patricia saw his fame expire rather fast as the Lions lost to the New York Jets 48-17.

Both teams are looking to bounce back during Week Two of the NFL season.

Detroit Lions:

Offensively, Golden Tate should continue to have an impact on the Lions roster. During Week One, Tate hauled in seven receptions for 79 yards along with a touchdown. Tate had proven throughout his career that he is a strong and talented receiver. Throughout his time in Detroit, Tate has been extremely productive while also proving to be an excellent route runner. His mix of quickness and power allows him to break through tackles.

Defensively, second-year linebacker Jarrad Davis should continue to find success on the field. Davis successfully recorded four tackles against the Jets. Davis has proven excellent flexibility including his ability to twist and turn to squeeze into gaps. Possesses excellent speed that allows Davis to run downfield to make plays. His athletic ability will only grow in the NFL and eventually help improve his skills in coverage.

The Lions’ dark horse should be none other than safety Glover Quin. During Sunday’s loss, Quin was able to record two total tackles. Quin has proven to be a successful veteran not only on the field but in the locker room as well. He has the ability to bull through the line but also can manage to successfully wrap up in the open field. Quin has  has soft hands and can successfully time passes to interrupt plays. Great ability to reach for the ball at the highest point. He’ll need a bounce-back performance, but he’s been one of the NFL’s best safties for a few years.

San Francisco 49ers:

Offensively, I expect Jimmy Garoppolo will find his groove and get back on track. Garoppolo successfully completed 15 of his 33 pass attempts for 261 yards. But, Garoppolo only managed one touchdown while throwing three interceptions against a tough Vikings defense. However, throughout his short career in San Francisco, we have seen how good Garoppolo truly is. Garoppolo has a very smooth throwing motion and an impressive release time. Plus, his athletic ability gives him enough time to use his feet and flush out of the pocket to make plays downfield.

Defensively, DeForest Buckner managed seven total tackles, two and a half sacks, three and a half tackles for loss and three quarterback hits against the Vikings. Throughout his career in San Francisco, Buckner has shown natural strength and power through his upper body. Buckner improved his pad level which ultimately allowed him to successfully penetrate the offensive line and record a sack. Due to his size and speed, Buckner is highly successful against the run game.

The 49ers’ dark horse could possibly be rookie linebacker, Fred Warner. Warner recorded 12 total tackles last week against the Vikings, along with a tackle for loss and a pass deflection. Warner was an impressive hybrid defender in college and should find the same success in the slot thanks to his size and speed. Although his success is typically near the line, Warner has often shown skills like a safety. Possesses outstanding athletic ability which allows Warner to quickly fight through the line for a sack or tackle for loss.

Prediction: Lions 21 – 49ers 20

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