Detroit Lions: Give thanks for defensive developments

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s time to give thanks for the developments on the Detroit Lions defense that are making a positive impact for this team.

As the Detroit Lions prepare to host the Chicago Bears for a Thanksgiving Day showdown at Ford Field, what can fans be most thankful for this season? A few key players jump to mind, but two defenders in particular stick out.

Much has been said about how good defensive tackle Damon “Snacks” Harrison has been after arriving in the Motor City, even if he’s not fond of the nickname. He immediately bolstered the Lions run defense. Need proof? He helped hold the Carolina Panthers to a mere 56 yards rushing.

You read that correctly. The Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey along with rushing threat quarterback Cam Newton and company were held to 56 yards total on the ground. Of course, Newton managed 357 yards passing, but the running lanes were effectively shut down.

But Snacks wasn’t alone out there. Rookie defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand has been making his presence known in Detroit. He’s also one of the highest rated rookies by Pro Football Focus (PFF) in the entire NFL. He’s also earning PFF’s nod for possible defensive rookie of the year.

The development of Hand as a force along the defensive line bodes well for the future of the defense. Speaking of the future, Lions defensive back Tracy Walker burst onto the scene in Week 11. Drafted in the 3rd round, one round ahead of Hand, Walker had a tackle and a pass defended on Sunday. But the bigger play was his timely interception.

Knowing key players, such as safety Glover Quin, aren’t getting any younger, it’s a great sign to see the younger players stepping up and making a difference. As this Lions team continues to adapt to a different style of defense under new head coach Matt Patricia, the players drafted with Patricia in the fold having a positive impact means that his plans for the team are starting to work. Or, at a minimum, are consistent with his intentions.

General manager Bob Quinn and coach Patricia are only one year into their time together. They are starting to put the pieces in place that they both believe in for this Detroit Lions defense. Harrison, Hand and Walker are three players they’ve brought in together that have been paying dividends. While the season hangs in the balance, those three players are something Lions fans can be thankful for heading into this week’s holiday.