Lions vs. Packers Report Card: Detroit falls to Packers on MNF

Defense- 2/5 Stars

Expectations for this defensive unit weren’t exactly sky-high coming into the season. Through two weeks not much has been done to raise those expectations.

There were some glimmers of hope, the Lions managed to sack Aaron Rodgers a few times. There were some flashes in coverage by Ifeatu Melifonwu before his untimely injury.

But there were way too many instances where Rodgers and Aaron Jones could do whatever they wanted. Jones, in particular, marching into the end zone on four separate occasions.

The biggest backbreaker was the Lions allowing the Packers to go six of eight on third downs. They have to do a better job of getting off the field.

Best defensive player: Nick Williams

The Detroit Lions have been desperately searching for an interior pass rush for years. Nick Williams provided some in this game. He didn’t play phenomenally, but no one on this defense really did. So Williams gets praise this week for his half-sack, and for some solid work in the run game.

With so many bodies at defensive tackle, Williams needs to step up to earn more playing time. He did just that in Green Bay this week.

Worst defensive player: Alex Anzalone

There’s a reason Lions twitter was clamoring for Derrick Barnes almost immediately in this game.

Anzalone struggled in coverage, and both he and Jamie Collins had no answers for Aaron Jones through the air or on the ground.

For as much as everyone says the Lions need a wide receiver or a safety, an inside linebacker might be the biggest need on this roster.

Special Teams- 4.5/5 Stars

Jack Fox is still amazing, his two punts both went over 50 yards and landed inside the 20. The punt coverage was great too, allowing just two yards on punt returns.

Austin Seibert hit his only field goal and both extra points. Solid day for Detroit’s kicker.

Godwin Igwebuike also did some solid work as a returner. His big 33-yard return near the end of the first half allowed Detroit to drive into field goal range with relative ease.

The only blemish on the special teams was a 41-yard return by Kylin Hill. While that is a big return to give up, one bad play is very manageable.