3 game ball winners for the Detroit Lions in Week 2

2. RB D’Andre Swift

Swift’s status for the game against the Commanders was a bit of a question mark due to an ankle injury, and overall it did reduce his snap count on Sunday. But he had 56 yards on his five carries, with a 50-yard run, along with two catches for 31 yards highlighted by a 22-yard catch and run for a touchdown.

Speaking about the long run to Ben Raven of MLive, Swift lamented what could’ve been.

"I felt good. Yeah, I felt that. Wish I could’ve — wish I was 100 percent,” Swift said of the 50-yard scamper. “Wouldn’t get caught on the first one. But I felt a little bit, but I came out good. I’m good. My mentality, if I can be out there and contribute in any way, I’m going to do that.”"

He added what he was thinking when got to his feet after falling down on what would become his touchdown reception.

"Just score.”"

Challenged this offseason by running backs coach Duce Staley to know the difference between being hurt and injured, Swift was adamant to the media he would play against Washington after missing practice on Wednesday and Thursday. He indeed played after being listed as questionable on Friday, and made a couple difference-making plays on his seven touches.

Playing through an injury and being productive is a good way to get awarded a game ball. So Swift gets one this week.