The Detroit Lions defense had some issues in 2023, to be sure. Deep passes were a problem, as were defending quarterback runs. However, Aaron Glenn’s defense in 2023 thrived at one specific thing: stopping opposing running backs.
The Lions defense allowed the fewest rushing yards to running backs of any NFL team in the 2023 season. Opposing running backs totaled just 1,028 yards on the ground in 17 games.
In terms of yards per carry to running backs, the Detroit defense finished third at 3.5 YPC, behind the Texans and Patriots. The Lions faced a lot fewer runs by RBs; the 296 attempts against Detroit were almost 100 fewer than Houston had to defend. In fact, only the 49ers faced fewer rushing attempts by opposing RBs, with 265.
Even though San Francisco saw 31 fewer attempts, Detroit allowed 69 fewer yards to RBs. That’s a testament to the dedication to stopping the run. It’s a major improvement over 2022, when the Lions allowed the 12th-most rushing yards to RBs (1,683) and ranked 23rd in yards per carry to RBs (4.7).
All statistical data provided by Sports Info Solutions
