2. Nate Sudfeld
1. Hendon Hooker
With Jared Goff not playing in the preseason opener, as expected, the battle for the No. 2 spot on the depth chart takes center stage. Which of Sudfeld or Hooker will start against the Giants has not been announced, but it's truly a novelty distinction that will make little or no difference. Both have worked with the second and third-team offenses equally to this point.
If it had to be decided today, Sudfeld would likely be starting the season as Goff's primary backup. That should be viewed as a problem by the Lions, and one they need Hooker to start asserting himself to fix. If he can't do it, then that's a whole other thing as other backup quarterback options may have to come into play. Sudfeld being one snap from having to play if Goff goes down is something no one should one should want.
Hooker's first NFL game action is naturally very highly anticipated, even if it's only a preseason game. Nobody should expect perfection, especially as he continues to deal with a dislocated finger from OTA. But more flashes of what brings to the table (mobility, arm strength) need to show in a game setting, with a half of football his on Thursday night.
The Lions' backup quarterback battle is at a potential turning point (yes, already). If Hooker plays well against the Giants, even with the caveat of it being against backups and guys who may not make their roster, the situation will take a roundly positive turn. If Sudfeld plays well and Hooker doesn't....well, we've addressed the issue there. If they both play poorly, there may have to be some actual emphasis placed on finding a more capable backup for Goff.
Honorable mentions: CB Ennis Rakestraw, OL Colby Sorsdal, RB Craig Reynolds, RB Sione Vaki, RB Jermar Jefferson, EDGE Mathieu Betts, CB Steven Gilmore, TE James Mitchell