NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky recently offered his candid assessment of the Detroit Lions, pointing out a significant flaw that could impede their success as they strive to establish themselves as legitimate contenders this season.

While the Lions have been one of the league’s most exciting teams to watch, with a rejuvenated roster and an aggressive style of play, Orlovsky believes they must address a key weakness to fully capitalize on their potential.

Speaking on a recent broadcast, Orlovsky highlighted the Lions’ inconsistency in pass protection as a critical area of concern. Despite boasting a strong offensive line on paper, Detroit has struggled at times to protect quarterback Jared Goff in high-pressure situations. “This team has so much talent, but the inconsistency in protecting Goff is something that could hurt them in big games,” Orlovsky explained. He added that when the offensive line falters, it disrupts the rhythm of Detroit’s otherwise potent offense.

The Lions have made significant strides under head coach Dan Campbell, transforming from perennial underperformers into a team with legitimate playoff aspirations. Their strong start to the season has been fueled by standout performances from players like Goff, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, and rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs. However, Orlovsky’s analysis underscores that even the most explosive offenses can be derailed if the quarterback isn’t given enough time to operate.

“In today’s NFL, protecting your quarterback is non-negotiable,” Orlovsky emphasized. “If Goff is forced to rush his throws or constantly evade pressure, it’s going to limit what this team can accomplish offensively. They need to tighten up the protection, especially against teams with elite pass rushers.”

Beyond the pass protection issue, Orlovsky also pointed to the Lions’ defensive secondary as another area that requires attention. While the unit has shown improvement compared to previous seasons, they have occasionally struggled to contain opposing passing attacks. This dual challenge of shoring up both pass protection and pass defense could determine whether Detroit can sustain its early success throughout the season.

The Lions remain in a strong position to compete for the NFC North title, but as Orlovsky’s critique suggests, their journey to becoming a true Super Bowl contender will require continued growth and refinement. For Detroit, addressing these vulnerabilities could be the key to transforming potential into postseason success.