Aaron Jones seeks to spoil Lions’ Christmas with ground game prowess
Limiting the impact of veteran running back Aaron Jones will be crucial for the Detroit Lions as they prepare to face the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas Day. In their previous encounter in Week 9, Jones showcased his ability as a formidable offensive threat, racking up 108 total yards in the Vikings’ surprising win at Ford Field. His effectiveness against the Lions has been a consistent storyline throughout his career.
Historical Dominance Against Detroit
In 13 games against Detroit, Jones has amassed an impressive 810 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. These statistics highlight his capacity to exploit the Lions’ defensive weaknesses. Even at 31 years old, Jones continues to demonstrate efficiency and the potential for significant ground production.
Though he has not been Minnesota’s primary ball-carrier this season—Jordan Mason currently leads the Vikings in both rushing attempts and yards—Jones’s role becomes even more critical with Mason sidelined due to an ankle injury. This situation places additional responsibility on Jones, especially with rookie quarterback Max Brosmer poised to make only his second career start.
Brosmer’s Inexperience and Jones’ Versatility
Brosmer’s early career has been marked by challenges; he has completed 31 of 47 passes for 220 yards, with zero touchdowns and four interceptions across five games. In this context, Jones’s experience and versatility are invaluable. He has also contributed as a receiver out of the backfield, notching 25 receptions for 189 yards and a touchdown this season.
The Lions’ run defense will face a significant test against Jones and the Vikings’ offense. Over the past two weeks, they have allowed more than 150 rushing yards in each game, including a season-high 230 yards to the Steelers last week. On the season, the Lions rank 16th in the league for rushing yards allowed, giving up a total of 1,724 yards. Additionally, they have permitted 12 opposing running backs to score at least one rushing touchdown this year.
A Critical Challenge for the Lions
Lions head coach Dan Campbell understands the stakes. “We can’t let the run game get going,” he remarked to reporters this week. “These guys are going to lean on you. They’re going to use the run game because it’ll alleviate a ton of pressure. And if we let them open the floodgates, it’s going to be a long day for us.”
If the Lions can successfully limit Jones’s effectiveness on the ground, their chances of leaving U.S. Bank Stadium with a crucial victory—and keeping their playoff hopes alive—will greatly improve. In this festive showdown, a prediction suggests Jones will finish with 84 rushing yards and a touchdown on 14 carries, underscoring the pivotal role he may play in this high-stakes matchup.
