Special Teams
The Lions took a big step forward in improving their troubling special teams play last week. 100 yards worth actually, as returner Jamal Agnew returned the Eagles’ first kickoff the entire length of the field for a score. It was a welcome sight, as his ball security issues cost him return snaps in Week 2. In a game where every point and every yard of field position will be critical for Detroit, a repeat performance from Agnew would be hugely valuable.
The rest of the unit continues to have their share of hiccups, (sounds familiar, right?) including allowing a blocked field goal attempt against the Eagles late in the fourth quarter. Fortunately for the Lions, it didn’t end up costing them the game, but miscues against one of the league’s best teams could be disastrous.
The Lions were able to cut down on their special teams penalties, committing just one against the Eagles. Detroit simply can’t afford to lose field position against the Chiefs, and another step forward in both the return and coverage units will be needed on Sunday.
The Chiefs likely won’t have Hill to return both kickoffs and punts on Sunday and could turn to Hardman to fill that role. They rank right in the middle of the league in terms of both punt and kick return yardage, averaging 20.5 and 7.1 yards, respectfully.
Harrison Butker is one of the more solid kickers in the NFL with a career field goal percentage of 90.7. He is perfect on three-point tries this season. Ironically, the Lions would probably like to see him take his share of attempts; any time you can keep the Chiefs out of the end zone, that has to be considered a win.