Detroit Lions: Five must watch players on defense

The Detroit Lions defense dominated in their first two preseason games. Here are a couple players to keep your eye on that could have an impact this season.

The Detroit Lions almost pitched a shutout during Saturday’s preseason game versus the New York Jets at Ford Field. They allowed only two field goals in the final quarter of the game, coming on the heels of their game in Indianapolis where they only allowed 10 points.

While winning a preseason game doesn’t mean much, the 2008 Lions were undefeated in the preseason, it gives individual players a chance to show their skill. While the team as a whole played well against the Jets, there were a few standout players on defense.

Cornelius Washington

Defensive end Washington made one of the defensive plays of the game when he crushed Jets quarterback Christian Hackenberg. The play came on a third down attempt on the Jets first drive of the game, Washington sacked Hackenberg for a nine-yard loss and caused a fumble that was nearly recovered by the Lions.

This was the first of a couple unsuccessful takeaways by the Lions through the first three-quarters. The defense wasn’t able to make a takeaway until their last play of the game when quarterback Bryce Petty attempted a touchdown throw to tight end Jordan Leggett but was intercepted Lions safety Rolan Milligan for a touchback.

Special teams were able to get a turnover at the beginning of the third quarter after Jets receiver Frankie Hammond fumbled the ball on a punt reception. Lions tight end Robert Tonyan was able to secure the turnover.

Washington finished the game with three tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble.