Lions vs. Chargers Week 2 Scouting Report: Banged-up, still a threat
Special Teams
The Lions started well on special teams last Sunday, with punter Sam Martin consistently pinning the Cardinals deep in their own zone to begin the game. The mistakes – and penalties – began to rise as the game wore on, which was a major contributing factor in them losing their lead.
A muffed punt by returner Jamal Agnew, and a blocked punt late in the game didn’t help matters either. Agnew may be running out of chances due to his ball security issues, and the Lions could already be planning to give other players a look on returns against the Chargers.
Matt Prater, though, continues to kick at a high level for the Lions. He nailed a 55-yard field goal against the Cardinals, and added a game tying 33-yarder in overtime.
The Chargers kicking situation is much cloudier. Placekicker Michael Badgley sat out the opener and is questionable for today’s tilt with a groin injury. In his place, punter Ty Long may again be forced to pull double duty.
He looked good last week, hitting all three extra point attempts, and his only field goal try, from 40 yards. Expecting a punter to extend his kicking range much beyond that could be problematic for L.A., and the Lions may need to be prepared for some short fourth down conversion attempts.