Penei Sewell played primary role in Lions keeping Micah Parsons in check

Penei Sewell had the challenge of blocking Micah Parsons last Sunday, and it’s no surprise the Lions right tackle rose to it in a big way.

Heading into last Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys, Lions right tackle Penei Sewell was clearly ready for a matchup against Cowboys star linebacker Micah Parsons.

Sewell has shown over and over how motivated he is to be great, as his own harshest critic even as he’s already being regarded as one of the best right tackles in the league. He’s well on his way to becoming of the best offensive tackles in the league, regardless of left or right side, and it’s easy to forget he turned 22 this month.

The matchup against Parsons, who the Lions legitimately could have taken No. 7 overall in the 2021 draft instead of Sewell, was a big one. It was an opportuity for Sewell to absolutely establish, if he hasn’t already even as everyone considers how badly the Lions’ defense could use Parsons, that he was the right choice.

Penei Sewell played the lead role in Lions holding down Micah Parsons in Week 7

The Lions’ offense struggled in Week 7, scoring just six points (zero in the second half) and turning the ball over five times (all in the second half) against a tough Dallas defense. But it was not because Parsons had the kind of outstanding, game-wrecking day he’s capable of having, as he finished with a fairly undynamic five total tackles (zero tackles for loss) along with one sack and one quarterback hit.

Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus highlighted how Sewell specifically did up against Parsons. The one negative play against Parsons for Sewell was easily placed on quarterback Jared Goff and his antsy pocket presence.

Ultimately, it’s not too surprising Sewell stepped up and won his individual matchup against Parsons last Sunday.