Summary
The Detroit Lions have either won or have been close to winning every game so far. The offense is the best in the division and has some balance while utilizing many options but can bog down near pay dirt. The defense has been opportunistic but also passive at times, which is symptomatic of Patricia’s coaching style.
The team has had some lapses on both sides of the ball, lost a game they should have won, and tied a game they should have won handily. The offense has struggled running the ball and converting red zone opportunities into touchdowns.
Turnovers and little mistakes have cost the Lions two wins to date. The passing game has been resurrected and the defense looks like it has the potential to be much better. The special teams have mostly been poor. Lions fans want to see an all-three-phases, 60-minute game out of the team.
Overall grade: C+, we just haven’t seen the best out of anyone. Injuries have played a part but if they want to compete for the division title, they’re going to have to eliminate dumb turnovers near the goal line, fumbled punts, and lapses in focus.
Many people outside of Detroit are surprised by the Lions start to the season but we aren’t. They are capable of more, we all see it. The weapons are there.
The line seems to be holding up well. The depth on defense has been positive. Players are stepping up when other guys miss time. The time is now to put it all together and quit letting referees decide games for us.
The Green Bay Packers will not just roll over because we’ve beaten them a few times in a row. We have to continue to run the ball better, especially. The run defense must get better and we need to generate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks with the number of times we ask our defensive backs to play man coverage.