Detroit Lions at Halfway Point: Position by Position Grades
By Zac Snyder
Oct 12, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jerick McKinnon (31) is tackled by Detroit Lions defensive tackle Nick Fairley (98), linebacker Tahir Whitehead (59) and defensive end Ezekiel Ansah (94) during the first quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Lions defeated the Vikings 17-3. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
B. At the quarter pole, the Lions’ defensive ends were much more adept at cleaning up the quarterback than actually applying the pressure themselves but that got much better in games five through eight. In particular, Ziggy Ansah completely ate up Matt Kalil and Jake Matthews rewarding the Lions’ faith in making him the fifth overall pick in the 2013 draft. With Nick Fairley likely out for several weeks, the defensive ends have to keep bringing pressure.. Halfway MVP. Ziggy Ansah. DEFENSIVE END