The Detroit Lions get the first blow against the Vikings after the undefeated squad returns from its bye week. The massive clash appears to set the tone between the squads at the top of not just the NFC North, but the entire NFC. We caught up with John Maakaron, Editor at Lions on SI, and asked him five pressing questions ahead of Sunday’s big showdown.

1. With Aidan Hutchinson out, is there anyone capable of providing outside pressure?

The Lions’ defensive linemen, consisting of Alim McNeill, DJ Reader and Levi Onwuzurike, have shown the ability to attack the quarterback from the middle of the defense. However, many of their options at the margins are unproven. Josh Paschal, drafted to replace Marcus Davenport, is the most experienced of the bunch and had limited pass-rushing performance in his first three years.

The Lions could use several different options against Paschal. In addition to Onwuzurike leaving at the end, new additions Isaiah Thomas, Isaac Ukwu and James Houston are possible answers. It will be exciting to see how the Lions fill this gap.

2. Who is ahead in the chess match between Ben Johnson and Brian Flores?

The Lions’ offense appears to be firing on all cylinders over the last two games. Jared Goff is playing at a high level and the arsenal around him is all playing well. These are two of the best coordinators in football, and both will be tested. This should be a fascinating match.

3. Have the Lions fixed the red zone scoring issues that plagued them in the early weeks?

Ben Johnson called several trick plays and creative looks inside the red zone. Over the last three games, we’ve seen multiple hook-and-ladders, a wide receiver throwing a touchdown pass, and passes aimed at offensive tackles.

Additionally, the running game has been established early in the last three games. The option to go with either David Montgomery or Jahmyr Gibbs opens up the rest of the offense.

4. How much trouble will the Lions face if Carlton Davis (concussion) and Brian Branch (knee) are sidelined or not at full health against Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and possibly TJ Hockenson?

The secondary was better than a year ago, but from a statistical perspective there is still a lot of room for improvement. The injury situation for both Davis and Branch is concerning, especially Davis.

If Davis can’t go, the pressure will be put on rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold. The Alabama product was tough but struggled with penalties. This will be a great test for him, no matter who he is dealing with.

5. What areas of Minnesota’s offense and defense do you think the Lions can excel at?

The toughest part of Minnesota’s defense happens to be the best part of the Lions’ offense. How Detroit can succeed on the ground will have a big impact on how this game is decided.

Defensively, the Lions were very good against the run. They need to find ways to counter Sam Darnold because injuries in the secondary could make it a long day against Justin Jefferson and Co. For the Lions, winning the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball will be crucial to winning their first division game of the year.