Detroit Lions Week 12 report card: Lions win streak snapped in Thanksgiving heartbreaker

Run defense: 2/5 stars 

It’s been long established that mobile quarterbacks are an issue for the Lions’ defense. Josh Allen did exactly what everyone expected he would do with his legs. He was a monster on the ground, constantly picking up first downs and even rushing for a touchdown.

It wasn’t much better defending Devin Singletary. The Lions’ interior defensive linemen had a tough day and it resulted in the Bills picking up chunks of yardage on the ground.

Pass defense: 3/5 stars

For most of the game, Detroit actually did a good job defending the pass. Allen was under pressure a lot as the rotational pass rushers played well, which caused some issues for the Bills. Unfortunately, it fell apart a bit in the fourth quarter a bit as the Bills’s offense woke up.

Stefon Diggs went from having a quiet day to a monster one in the final quarter. He scored a touchdown to put the Bills up by a field goal late, then caught a dagger over the middle to set up the game-winning kick. Sometimes great players make great playss and the Lions couldn’t keep the dam from breaking.

Best defensive player: James Houston 

After being elevated from the practice squad on Wednesday, Houston made his NFL debut. Given a shot to make an impact, Houston stepped up in a major way.

The Jackson State product introduced himself to the league in his NFL debut, while also putting his name in Lions history.

Not a bad way to make an impression. With Julian Okwara going down in this game with an arm injury, Houston could be in line to stick to the active roster going forward.

Worst defensive player: CB Will Harris 

Harris had his share of struggles matched up against Isaiah McKenzie out of the slot. Harris gave up multiple big plays, including a touchdown.

Harris has been very hit-or-miss this season. He has had some good moments here and there, but far too often he has been on the wrong side of a big play.