Five things the Lions (7-3) must do to beat the undefeated Green Bay Packers (10-0) on Thanksgiving at Ford Field:

1. Start fast on offense and defense. Didn’t work so well against the Panthers on Sunday perhaps there was a lesson to be learned there. Don’t want to fall into a deep hole against the Packers early. Could be dangerous.

2. Don’t just rattle Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, knock him down. One of the reasons Rodgers is the best quarterback in the NFL right now is that he can scramble and make things happen when pressured. So while rattling his cage is fine, sacks are the only sure way to stop him. The defensive line needs its best game of the season and then some.

3. Run the ball effectively. Last week after Matthew Stafford settled down and started throwing with accuracy, the Lions’ passing game opened up the running game and Kevin Smith took advantage. Expect to see Smith start. He’s got fresh legs and you know Scott Linehan was drawing up this week’s offensive game plan with him in mind.

4. It’s amazing how much more effective Stafford is when he gets time and stays basically untouched. You know Clay Matthews is hungry to get his mitts on Stafford. The offensive line must play like it did against Carolina or actually better since the Packers defense is much better than the Panthers.

5. Don’t get caught up in the huge implications of the game. Enjoy the day, enjoy the tradition and make fans glad they delayed their Thanksgiving feast to watch it all unfold. Don’t look too far ahead, just play with attitude.

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