Detroit Lions Defense: Breaking Down How They Shut Down Adrian Peterson

September 10, 2013   ·   Jeff Risdon   ·   Jump to comments

When Adrian Peterson broke the very first offensive snap of 2013 for a 78-yard touchdown run right through the heart of the Detroit Lions defense, it sure looked ominous. It looked so easy; AD was barely touched and never had to break stride on his way to the distant end zone. 
After that run, however, the Detroit Lions did a masterful job of bottling up Peterson. He gained just 15 yards on his remaining 17 carries. 
For proper context, let's look at Peterson's triumphant first carry. 
The Minnesota Vikings are in 21 personnel, with H-back Rhett Ellison in front of Peterson in the I-formation. Tight end Kyle Rudolph is in line, flanking left tackle. Wideout Greg Jennings motions across the formation and lines up tight on the opposite side. 
The Lions are lined up in a position to succeed with eight defenders in the box. The problem occurs when the entire Lions front sucks too easily to where the Vikings want them to go, which is towards the ...

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