Detroit Lions That Will Need Monster Playoff Performances for a Lions Title Shot

The Detroit Lions have been waiting a long time for an article outlining who needs to enter beast mode for them to win a Super Bowl. Regardless of how likely that outcome is, the Lions enter the NFL playoffs next week with the same chance as the other participants.

In order to capitalize on that opportunity, Detroit is going to require ridiculous contributions from certain players. 

Either way, enjoy the ride Detroit. You've earned it.

Matthew Stafford

The Detroit Lions are completely reliant on their quarterback. When Matthew Stafford struggles, the team rarely wins.

The young signal-caller broke his finger against the Denver Broncos, and the Lions promptly lost three of their next four games. Their inability to run the ball requires Stafford to control the game for Detroit to be successful.

When he is dealing, as he was against the San Diego Chargers, the Lions can beat anybody.

Calvin Johnson

Calvin Johnson is the Secret Service of security blankets. 

He has certainly earned his Pro Bowl selection with over 1,400 yards and 15 touchdowns. He no longer is on pace for Randy Moss' single-season touchdown reception record, but this season has been special.

His ability to dominate games from the wide receiver position puts him in a select class of pass-catchers. 

Jeff Backus

If Stafford is going to deliver the ball to Johnson, he needs to be upright to do it.

The Detroit Lions offensive line has been the public whipping boy for the fans. None have taken the abuse that Jeff Backus has endured.

His underappreciated play has been a overlooked reason for the Lions' success this year.  

Kevin Smith

The Detroit Lions offense is a different beast when Kevin Smith is running effectively. 

The Lions have ranked near the bottom of the league in rushing throughout the year. Yet, they have still been successful thanks to the players featured on the previous slides.

Smith provides another dynamic that defenses must be prepared to handle.  

Ndamukong Suh

Ndamukong Suh has not enjoyed the statistical success that he did in 2010. However, his mere presence on the field causes concern for opposing offensive lines.

The Motor City Monster must produce more tangible results for the Lions to advance in the postseason tournament.

The intimidation Suh exerts can be beneficial for the defense. Just not as much as sacks and lost yardage.

Cliff Avril

There has been no bigger benefactor of the attention paid to Suh than Cliff Avril. 

That is certainly not a knock on the breakout defensive end. Avril has taken full advantage of the opportunities given to him on his way to becoming a Pro Bowl snub.

The biggest key to postseason victories is getting after the passer. Avril—an impending free agent—stands to make a lot of money this January.

Louis Delmas

Louis Delmas has been sidelined for a month with knee injury. The Detroit Lions have won despite his absence, but he will be crucial in the playoffs.

The bone-crunching safety lends some legitimacy to the much-maligned secondary. He is a physical player capable of contributing to both the rush and pass defense.

Delmas is the emotional leader of the secondary. His return will be a giant boost to a resurgent defense.  

Chris Houston

Chris Houston has asserted himself in his fifth year. The cornerback has had a career year racking up 52 tackles and five interceptions in 13 games.

The playoffs will bring passers like Aaron Rodgers and Drew Brees, which means the Detroit Lions are going to need all hands on deck in the secondary.

Houston has the skills to make an impact in the postseason. If he can grab an interception or two, the Lions' chances will skyrocket.