Detroit Lions: 3 game balls for Week 7 vs. Cowboys

2. DE Aidan Hutchinson

The Lions moved Hutchinson around on Sunday and put him in a two-point stance more, as incoming defensive line reinforcements (Josh Paschal, John Cominsky) allowed for it. He had a partial sack (shared with linebacker Alex Anzalone) on the first drive of the game, forcing a three-and-out for the Cowboys and setting a tone that the Detroit defense came to play.

Hutchinson had a sack all his own later in the game, when the Cowboys only led 10-6 and the game was in doubt, to end a series for Dallas’ offense again. The spin move was something to be beheld.

Hutchinson only had three total tackles on Sunday, but one was a tackle for loss. Apart from sheer volume of tackle or sack stats, which can be deceiving sometimes, the No. 2 overall pick has to make noticeable impact plays above all else. He was the second-highest graded Lion’ defensive player for Week 7 (78.1), which uncovers the impact he had beyond the surface stats.

The Lions’ defense needs tone setters, and Hutchinson is naturally expected to be one. On Sunday he was one, so he gets a game ball.