Detroit Lions vs. Houston Texans: Preseason storylines to follow

Offensive line

Aside from the Crosby concussion, other things are moving along the line. Joe Dahl has been getting in time with the first unit at left guard, a spot up for grabs with the generally poor showing from the offensive line so far in camp and preseason.

He is the main candidate along with Kenny Wiggins for the job. That’s an issue that could take several weeks to decide but perhaps now that Dahl has gotten a new contract, he’ll pick up his play even more.

Another joint practice matchup that has been reported on quite a bit is tackle Rick Wagner versus J.J. Watt, Texans defensive end. Watt is one of the top players in the entire NFL, regardless of position, so it’s not a complete shock that Wagner had his hands full. In total, though, the line has seemed to struggle against both clubs and throughout the first preseason game.

Left tackle Taylor Decker had some troubles with Whitney Mercilus, who is a speed rush end, in line drills. That’s not a great matchup for the bigger Decker who is definitely better with power players than speed rushers.