In a historic moment for On Paper, the spotlight turns to the Detroit Lions and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as they battle it out in the Divisional Round game for a chance to advance to the NFC Championship. As both teams have progressed since their Week 6 matchup, changes in their gameplay and personnel promise an exciting showdown.

The Lions' passing offense has been a model of consistency throughout the season, with quarterback Jared Goff displaying strong performances. Goff boasts an impressive nine games with a passer rating of over 100, and Detroit has recorded at least 250 net passing yards in 11 games. Their passing attack ranks among the best in the league, placing seventh in dropback EPA, fifth in success rate, and fifth in passer rating.

Goff is aided by a formidable offensive line, which ranks fourth in adjusted sack rate and sacks allowed. Meanwhile, the Lions' array of offensive weapons, including standout receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, tight end Sam LaPorta, Josh Reynolds, and the emerging Jameson Williams, add depth and versatility to their passing game.

On the other side of the field, the Buccaneers' pass defense statistics paint a less impressive picture than their 14th DVOA ranking suggests. The team has struggled against formidable passing attacks, ranking 22nd in pass defense EPA and 26th in yards per attempt. However, their aggressive defensive strategy, characterized by a high blitz rate, has propelled them to seventh in sacks and tied for 17th in interceptions.

The Lions must be cautious of Antoine Winfield Jr., the Bucs safety who leads the team in passes defended, interceptions, forced fumbles, and fumble recoveries. His disruptive playmaking ability poses a challenge that Detroit must overcome.

In terms of the running game, the Lions have experienced a slight dip in recent performances. However, their run-heavy offense, powered by a strong offensive line, has garnered impressive overall statistics. Detroit finished the regular season with the fifth-most rushing yards, fifth-highest yards per carry, and eighth-highest success rate.

The Buccaneers' run defense has proven to be resilient, allowing a 4.0 yards per carry or more only twice in their last 11 games and limiting opponents to 150 rushing yards in just three games all season. Led by standout defenders Vita Vea, Calijah Kancey, and linebacker Lavonte David, Tampa Bay's front seven has been instrumental in their success against the run.

The Lions must devise a specific plan to neutralize the threat posed by Vita Vea, a dominant force in the middle. Despite their recent struggles in the run game, it is unlikely that Tampa Bay will be able to replicate the Lions' meager 40 rushing yards from their previous matchup.

As for the Buccaneers' passing offense, quarterback Baker Mayfield has led a resurgence, propelling them into the ranks of the better passing attacks in football. While the overall DVOA might be average, their rankings since Week 8 highlight their improvement.

In what promises to be a closely contested Divisional Round clash, the Lions will look to exploit their improved passing attack against the Buccaneers' vulnerable pass defense. On the other side of the ball, Tampa Bay aims to stifle Detroit's potent running game with their formidable run defense.

The outcome of this matchup will undoubtedly hinge on the performance of both teams' offensive units and their ability to exploit weaknesses in their opponent's defense. As the Lions and Buccaneers take the field, fans can expect a thrilling showdown for a ticket to the NFC Championship game.