X-Factor to Intercept Brock Purdy? Detroit Lions’ Bold Predictions for NFC Championship Game vs. San Francisco 49ers

QB Brock Purdy and Co. are just a step away from clinching the NFC. The San Francisco 49ers will be hosting the Detroit Lions at Levi’s Stadium. The 49ers have everything in their arsenal plus an ever-dependable quarter. Brock Purdy is looking to win the game but there is one thing standing in his way. He must be aware of the Lions’ defensive keyman: Aidan Hutchinson.

The Lions’ offense is breathing fire at the right time. They lead the NFL in completion of passes with 74.3% and have not committed a turnover while scoring 27.5 points per game. The 49ers too, have an explosive offense and they can break through at any moment within the game. That’s why the Lions’ defense must be on their feet and Hutchinson has to do what he does best.

Can Aidan Hutchinson stop Brock Purdy?

Both teams are great at offense. Brock Purdy, like Jared Goff, was not intercepted in the last week’s game, but his performance was a bit shakier. He missed his receiver quite often and looked puzzled when pressed with defense. The Packers kept the mob on and forced Purdy to throw the ball a little earlier. The Lions have a better and more experienced defense that includes Hutchinson and other key players.

Purdy had an exceptional season but his four interceptions in the Ravens’ loss proved that he can crumble if handled with a better defense. DE Aidan Hutchinson has a role to play here. He has 8 sacks to his name in the last 4 games. Hutchinson is leading the league in terms of QB pressures (84) in the regular season. It’s just not Hutchinson. The Lions’ defense possesses the required defensive weapon that can make all the difference against Purdy this week.

The Lions’ defense forms a formidable wall

Brian Branch is back from an injury suffered in week 18. He made 8 tackles with 1 sack against the Bucs in the Divisional round. He has 74 tackles to his name in the regular season. Safety Kerby Joseph is a real threat. He has 4 sacks in the last game and recorded four interceptions in the regular season.

Read More: Shirtless Jason Jumps Out of Suite as Travis Kelce Finally Breaks a Seven-Game Scoreless Streak Amidst Rumors of Retirement

Put Ifeatu Melifonwu and Alex Anzalone in the mix and the Lions’ have the recipe to stop the 49ers’ advances. In the last game, CJ Gardner Johnson and Derrick Barnes intercepted Baker Mayfield two times on the opening and final drives respectively and this made the Lions stay on top of the game. The Lions will look to reciprocate the same: They have the plan, they have the players, they just need to display their brilliance one more time.

Watch This Story: $260 Million Contract Holder Lamar Jackson in Line for Whopping Incentives From Ravens