This is what Jets's Sam Darnold has to do to beat the Lions in his NFL debut

Darnold defeated Josh McCown and Teddy Bridgewater in their battle for the starting post.

The best Lions cornerback will come out of the best season of his five-year career because he had eight interceptions and was a first All-Pro selection in 2017. Slay could make Darnold's life difficult on Monday if the rookie does not Warning . I think Lions coach Matt Patricia, a defensive guy, will put Slay to the test. Slay tied for the NFL's lead in the interceptions last year. Can he go where he stopped?

He is the best passer of the Lions. And the Jets do not exactly have a fantastic pass protection line, at least not based on last year. Will Ansah be able to make the most of Kelvin Beachum and Brandon Shell tackles? Will the Jets often keep a tight end like Eric Tomlinson on the line to help protect Darnold? Darnold must recognize where Ansah is before each piece. It is dangerous after a season of 12 bags.

If the throw is not there, throw the ball. Do not try to force the ball into windows that are too narrow. Do not try to play the hero. For the most part, Darnold did a good job with these things in the pre-season. He must continue Monday night in Detroit.