Vikings, Lions have contrasting passing games

The Vikings and Lions deal with their passing games in very different ways, from their quarterbacks to their top receivers. A look at the deeper statistics explains the differences.

The simpleton statistics say the Detroit Lions have the top-rated passing game and the Minnesota Vikings are 18th. But, wow, it goes much deeper than that.

The Vikings and Lions are both getting it done with their passing game in different ways – the Lions keep chucking the ball up and the Vikings have a more efficient attack. That statement rings true in looking at both the quarterbacks and the top receivers for each team.

Despite missing the last 20 percent of Detroit's overtime loss to the Tennessee Titans, Lions QB Matthew Stafford still has more passingin the deep passing game as the Lions and they haven't even attempted to be at this point. The Vikings have thrown only 12 passes that are considered "deep" by NFL statistical standards so far this year – meaning a ball caught 16 or more yards from the line of scrimmage – completing seven of them. The Lions have attempted 24, completing 11 of them.

What does it all mean? The perception is correct: The Vikings haven't had much of a downfield passing game through three games, relying instead on Harvin to do what he does best, gaining yards after the catch. Meanwhile, the Lions rely heavily on the deep threat and count on Johnson to make it happen.