Detroit Lions: What makes a perfect second preseason game?

OAKLAND, CA - AUGUST 10: Matt Cassel #8 of the Detroit Lions throws a pass against the Oakland Raiders during the fourth quarter of an NFL preseason football game at Oakland Alameda Coliseum on August 10, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - AUGUST 10: Matt Cassel #8 of the Detroit Lions throws a pass against the Oakland Raiders during the fourth quarter of an NFL preseason football game at Oakland Alameda Coliseum on August 10, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images
Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images /

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By and large, the Lions rookies looked very good in Week 1. We want to see them make strides in each game, though.

Kerryon Johnson had a very nice game, making some big plays, one of which was called back. He averaged almost five yards per carry; that would be a revelation for the Detroit offense that averaged about three per attempt under Jim Caldwell.

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Frank Ragnow allowed zero pressures and continued to look like a starter at both left guard and center.

Tyrell Crosby played pretty well, and as predicted by KITCW (and many others) his ability to play left tackle behind the incumbent, Taylor Decker, is possibly his best value to the team.

Of course, Crosby can still play inside if needed, too. I’d say that if he continues to improve he could play right tackle or right guard when the contracts of Rick Wagner or T.J. Lang expire.

Da’Shawn Hand and Tracy Walker, defensive end and safety-cornerback respectively, both had decent outings, too.

Hand, in particular, could be an important contributor to the line depth and pass rush if he lives up to his considerable potential. Walker is more of a project, and it looks like he is the next Glover Quin.

To have a great second preseason game, the Detroit Lions’ rookies must continue to play, stay healthy, and improve.