5 players to watch in Detroit Lions first preseason game vs. the Falcons

1. QB Tim Boyle/David Blough

I’m doubling up on the Lions’ No. 2 quarterback competition. Jared Goff will get the start against the Falcons, then it’ll be the Boyle/Blough Show–for better or worse.

Dan Campbell has opened up the idea the Lions will only keep two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster, depending on numbers kept at other spots. So

"I think most of it comes down to what else is on our roster? Are you keeping a quarterback three vs. a stud special teams player? Or somebody you know is going to play 30 snaps for you on defense and be a critical role player? I think that’s what it’s going to come down to, honestly,”"

Boyle was the Lions’ No. 2 quarterback last year, but Blough has looked a little better in offseason work and training camp. The first preseason game will be another step in his push to unseat Boyle as Goff’s backup, though Boyle will probably be the first to come into the game after Goff.

Campbell has left open the idea the Lions would bring in someone from the outside if they aren’t happy with what Boyle and/or Blough are doing. Time would be of the essence to get someone new up to speed with the offense if it’s deemed necessary, even to serve as a backup who could play in a meaningful game if needed.

So the first preseason game is sneakily pretty important for both of the Lions’ backup quarterbacks, lest their roster status gets shaky.