Glendale, Ariz. — The Detroit Lions defense answered early criticism Sunday, forcing five straight Arizona three-and-outs after an opening touchdown and finishing with five sacks in a 45-21 win over the Cardinals at State Farm Stadium.
Coach Dan Campbell said the unit attacked the run, stayed sticky in coverage and played with aggressiveness after coordinator Kelvin Sheppard and the staff pushed for a response.
Detroit recorded 12 quarterback hits and six tackles for loss. Arizona managed just 56 rushing yards. Keith Abney II, making his first career start at safety, recorded his first career interception.
The Lions planned to play more man coverage after leaning zone early in the season. Cornerbacks Roger McCreary and D.J. Reed challenged receivers, helping Detroit build a 31-7 lead in the third quarter.
Detroit improved to 3-2 and heads into its bye before facing Green Bay. Jahmyr Gibbs added two rushing touchdowns and 151 rushing yards in the offensive surge that followed the defensive stops.
