2. Position Battles
Every year there are players that are entrenched at their position. Short of an unexpected injury, there is exactly zero competition to Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford. The same can be said for kicker Matt Prater, punter Sam Martin or long snapper Don Mulhlbach. There are, however, positions where the leader or starter has yet to be determined.
This year, virtually every position on the defense is up for grabs. Which receivers are the Lions going to keep? Who returns punts and kickoffs? I like to see for myself how players have an impact in their role rather than merely rely on a beat writer’s observation.
3. Undrafted Free Agents
Every year for the past several seasons, Detroit has had an undrafted free agent make the regular season 53-man roster. These are true Cinderella stories. I like to see if I can predict who it may be this year.
4. Sharpness
Does the offense defense and special teams look as if they are playing as a unit? Can they line up properly and execute plays? Do they look organized? You’re never going to see a lot of complex offenses or defenses at this time of year, but it is certainly valuable if they’re not drawing a lot of delay-of-game or illegal substitution penalties.
5. The Run Game
It takes time to develop us solid run attack. The Lions have not had one for years. The preseason will show indications that the offensive line and running back group has the potential to mount a serious run attack.
Read on to see specific areas that I am excited to observe in Sunday’s game.