Detroit Lions: What will make a perfect preseason opener?
Did we fix the problems
Questions that need answers:
Did we fix the running game?
Will our offensive line protect Matthew Stafford?
Will Kerryon Johnson and LeGarrette Blount be the answers at running back?
Are the tight ends going to get the job done as receivers?
What other younger players will make big gains and develop into starters or big pieces?
Can the Lions find ways to generate pressure without elite ends, outside of Ansah?
Is this group of linebackers capable of being a strength?
Beside Slay and Glover who will step up in the secondary?
Are the Lions NFC North contenders, or Super Bowl contenders?
Not all of these questions will be answered in Week 1, but the results of this game will likely hint at those answers.
Health, health, health
Not a big focus for many fans, the health of the roster getting through these exhibitions is paramount. Taylor Decker, the starting left tackle, went down in the Spring of 2017, and the offense was in dire straits. Another injury like that would be a major setback. Players often lament the preseason and would love to reduce it. They too are afraid of injuries and what the cost is.
The Detroit Lions need to stay healthy, bottom line. Few things could derail the positive feelings of the fan base quicker than an injury to a vital player. On the positive side, coming through healthy is actually job one in the preseason.
Next. Ranking the 5 best Lions draft classes of the past 30 years. dark
What do you think would make the preseason perfect? Specifically, what would make the Raiders matchup perfect? Let me know in the comments.
Follow me CoachKirk @mkirk2 on Twitter, for more Detroit sports, Michigan sports, and some other random interests. Happy football day, KITCW– out!