Detroit Lions: 4 positions to watch against the Cleveland Browns

The Detroit Lions still have some positions that will be decided against the Browns. But so many questions remain for the regular season.

Last week’s preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was hard to watch. Yes, the Detroit Lions emerged with a victory, but the first-string offense and defense did not look good.

For the final exhibition game, the Cleveland Browns come to Ford Field on Thursday (7 p.m. ET). The starters will play very little, if at all, and this game will be about determining those final roster spots.

It has been troublesome to watch the Detroit Lions thus far. The defense shows little signs of pressure on the quarterback, while the offense has been less than stellar, especially in their blocking for quarterback Matthew Stafford.

There are some major questions at key positions, at least in terms of depth.

RUNNING BACK

If it weren’t for continued mistakes like fumbling the ball, it would be easy to support keeping running back Ameer Abdullah. He has shown that he is a true pro and that he wants to make the team.

Abdullah does serve the purpose of being a nice insurance policy for both Kerryon Johnson as a runner and Theo Riddick as a receiver.

But to be honest, Ameer isn’t as good as either of them. Plus running back LeGarrette Blount and fullback Nick Bellore do things that Ameer can’t do.

Zach Zenner is the next guy in line. While Zenner isn’t as talented as Abdullah, he does provide special teams help and is good in pass protection. He is the one that should make this roster as the fifth back.

Ameer could help with special teams as a returner. But the wide receiver position really could be the answer in terms of a return specialist.