Grading the 2014 Detroit Lions: Taking A Closer Look At the Offense
By Max DeMara
Nov 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions tackle Cornelius Lucas (77) blocks Miami Dolphins defensive end Cameron Wake (91) during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Detroit won 20-16. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Offensive Line
Group Grade: B+. It was a struggle for Detroit’s offensive line to keep health, but the group banded together despite some incredible adversity. At times, two rookies (one an undrafted free agent) and other underrated players were forced to occupy spots, and did so rather flawlessly. Rookies and veterans played well alike, and Detroit did a decent job of keeping Stafford upright and allowing a running game that had struggled in 2013 to see its share of big moments. There’s plenty to like moving forward considering youth, providing the team can stay away from the pesky injury bug which hurt the most in 2014.
Top Performers: Dominic Raiola, Cornelius Lucas, Larry Warford, LaAdrian Waddle, Riley Reiff.
Questionable Play: Rob Sims.
Incomplete: Garrett Reynolds, Travis Swanson, Rodney Austin.