It’s been just four weeks since the Lions played at New Orleans and lost to the Saints.

Even though the Saints won 31-17, it was close for a while and the Lions earned respect especially from quarterback Drew Brees.

“I know how dangerous they are and how explosive they can be and defensively they are able to create turnovers and get after the quarterback,’’ Brees said on NBC SportsTalk.

“So we are going to have to do a good job of staying balanced, protect the passer, run the football and possessing the ball,’’ Brees added.

It’s the first playoff game for the Lions since 1999. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. Saturday on NBC.

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