Detroit Lions: 10 Observations from Sunday’s loss to Titans

4. It’s hard to stay mad at D’Andre Swift

Swift has made some big mistakes in his rookie year, but brings so much life and resilience to the offense that he gets a pass from me. Yes, that second quarter fumble at the goal line was devastating, but I was impressed with how he followed it up. Swift had 82 yards from scrimmage today, including 67 rushing, and bounced back with two touchdowns after his fumble.

In his last four games, Swift is averaging 94.5 yards from scrimmage and has scored four touchdowns.

5. With one more touchdown this year, Swift puts himself in pretty elite company

Here is the list of Lions players who scored ten or more touchdowns in his rookie season:

• Doak Walker (1950)
• Billy Sims (1980)
• Barry Sanders (1989)

After two more touchdowns against the Titans, Swift now leads the team with nine in only eleven games played. One more trip to the end zone this season will add his name to this exceptional set of running backs, two who are in the Hall of Fame, and another who was a three time Pro Bowler. The fact that Swift is often trusted with carries near the goal line over all-time great Adrian Peterson (who has also been very good in goal line situations this year) says a lot about this rookie.

6. Hunter Bryant sighting in the second quarter

After whispers of his versatility and playmaking potential throughout camp, the undrafted Bryant was a player I was intrigued by heading into the season. Unfortunately, Bryant spent most of his season on the injured reserve, only recently getting onto the field.

Bryant’s speed, power, and concentration were all on display during a 44-yard catch and run on a dime from Stafford, giving the tight end his first career catch. Don’t be surprised if Bryant takes the number two tight end spot from Jesse James next year.