Khalil Mack, Akiem Hicks should dominate Detroit Lions inexperienced right side

The Chicago Bears should be excited to welcome a new duo to the NFC North

The return of Akiem Hicks is huge not only for his presence but the ripple effects of what he brings. Hicks typically lines up right next to Khalil Mack on the right side, and together it is nearly impossible to double team both. This leaves one or the other in an advantageous matchup on most downs.

This duo has terrorized some of the best right sides in the NFL when they are flying at full strength. With Hicks back and Mack motivated, the start of the 2020 season should be no different.

Unfortunately for the Detroit Lions, the right side of their offensive line is not going to be equipped for this.

The Lions went out and paid Halapoulivaati Vaitai serious money after he had been a reserve for the Eagles who had flashed upside. Vaitai started in 2017 but has been a reserve since. Last year, he played 540 snaps, but had four penalties and allowed 23 pressures.

Is there a chance that in a full time starting role that Vaitai can grow into a right tackle worthy of big money? Sure. However, asking that of him in Week One of a season with no OTA or training camp is questionable. When you add in that Mack will be lining up across from him, you have an issue.

What makes matters worse is their right guard situation. After a multiple player battle, the reports are that rookie Jonah Jackson will be the starter. Again, this could be a bet that pays off in the longterm, and Jackson and Vaitai could be a great duo in time.

We even wrote about Jackson, and how he could be a draft pick that could start for Chicago at right guard.

Here is what NFL.COM wrote on Jackson pre-draft

"He’s a terrific processor of twists and blitzes who expedites his process and finds his work. If a team can improve the hands and body control they might have something, but he’s more likely a backup option for teams targeting pass protection inside at guard or center."

Akiem Hicks has violent hands and is an experienced veteran. Jackson is a rookie hoping to have all of his movements down. This could be very one-sided.

The left side of the Lions offensive line has to expect to be dominant without help. Any time Mack and Hicks are 2-0n-2 against Jackson and Vaitai, the Bears enter the play with a huge advantage. The Lions will have to consistently send help at these two, and even then they will be relying on one of them to hold down their end.