NFL picks: Proven expert looks at best bets for Patriots-Lions in Munich as Detroit defense surges
SportsLine expert Larry Hartstein analyzes how the Lions' defensive play has improved and what that means for Sunday in Munich
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After four games, Detroit ranked dead last in points and yards allowed. The Lions had given up an astounding 41 plays of 20-plus yards, a league high.
A narrative took hold: These were the same old Lions -- lethal on offense, helpless on defense.
But a funny thing happened over the next four games. Detroit's defense got healthier and turned into a more respectable unit.
After holding Miami to 182 total yards in a 19-9 win, the Lions have now gone four straight games allowing 21 or fewer points (15.5 ppg).
That's a feat the franchise had not accomplished in a decade.
Detroit's three best defensive performances -- 20-17 over Green Bay, 19-15 over Minnesota and 19-9 over Miami -- occurred after safety Brian Branch returned.
Edge DJ Wonnum (5 sacks) is expected to return from his concussion this week. That will boost a Lions pass rush currently tied for fifth with 27 sacks.
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