Detroit Lions: Young players shine bright in Week One win

The youth revolution for the Detroit Lions has begun, with several first and second year players stepping up to help the team get a Week One victory.

The Detroit Lions were able to secure a Week One 35-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday afternoon. And they did so with many of their younger players stepping up and contributing to the win.

The biggest name fans will likely be talking about around the water cooler on Monday is rookie wide receiver Kenny Golladay. The Lions’ third round selection out of Northern Illinois had an impressive debut, racking up four receptions for 69 yards and two critical second-half touchdowns.

The 23-year old showed signs of being a dynamic playmaker and deep threat in the preseason, recording three catches for 53 yards and two scores in his preseason debut against the Indianapolis Colts. But Golladay all but disappeared the rest of the exhibition season, posting a total of two receptions for a combined eight yards in his two other preseason contests.

Golladay’s performance on Sunday against the Cardinals stout defensive secondary only confirms the fact the Lions have themselves a bona fide star in the making.

Although an offensive rookie might have shined brightest on Sunday afternoon, the Lions’ defense had several young players step in order to help Detroit come out victorious in Week One.

First round draft selection Jarrad Davis had a wonderful Lions’ debut. The rookie linebacker led the team with nine solo tackles and he had a critical fumble recovery late in the third quarter that shifted the game in the Motor City’s favor.

Second-year safety Miles Killebrew posted a pick six that helped seal the victory in the fourth quarter. And young defensive end Anthony Zettel recorded the Lions’ only sack of the game. It was just the second sack in Zettel’s two-year NFL career.

Next: Is the Detroit Lions roster actually better in 2017?

There is undoubtedly a youth revolution happening in Detroit. With a solid Week One win under their collective belts, the Lions have a bright future ahead of them. Hopefully it leads to more experience for these young playmakers and postseason success for the Motor City.