The Detroit Lions offense sputtered during the first preseason game without many starters as it continues to hide until the games really matter.
The reports after the Detroit Lions first preseason game weren’t very kind. From the game being unwatchable to injuries overshadowing everything to Twitter lighting up with Same Old Lions references.
The Lions lost to the defending Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots. Something about that moniker makes the team sound pretty good.
While we know the Lions were without starting quarterback Matthew Stafford, the depth on the team along with the offensive line’s ability to keep him safe were rightfully questioned after the game.
Take these thoughts from Lions senior writer Tim Twentyman via DetroitLions.com:
"“The NFL season is a long one, and it’s not a matter of if injuries will happen but when. At some point in the season most backups will be counted on to step in and contribute. Thursday wasn’t a good start for a lot of those guys.”"
What does that mean for the Lions offense? It’s the starters and then everyone else. But the starters didn’t get much playing time, as per usual with the first preseason game. And that’s a good thing – no need to risk injury before the games matter.
For this reason, the Detroit Lions offense is pretty much hiding under the covers waiting to pounce. You see, there are reports left and right that this offense is clicking in training camp and practice. So, why bother rolling it out for everyone to see when the final score doesn’t count?
When the regular season opens up, that’s when we’ll see the camp practices translate into meaningful plays. If it doesn’t happen for the rest of the preseason, don’t worry. Let those people outside of Detroit have their doubts about this offense. Those inside the building and those watching practices on a daily basis know what the Lions are capable of.
Health will always be an issue. But if Detroit Lions head coach Matt Patricia keeps the starters firing on all cylinders in practice but holds them out of the preseason, you shouldn’t be worried. Better to keep them safe than injured until it counts.