Not The Same Old Lions Podcast: Weather and injuries impact preseason opener

The defense looked good early for the Lions forcing multiple three and outs, but Detroit’s offense did much of the same.  Nate Sudfeld started the game and played the entire first half.  Fans got their first sight of Hendon Hooker in game action wearing a Detroit Lions uniform.  He showed some flashes with his mobility, but that was all short lived due to sustaining a concussion in the third quarter.

Hooker returned to practice Wednesday morning, but his availability is still a question, leading the Lions to sign quarterback Jake Fromm.  He provides an extra person in the quarterback room this week and could see game action against Kansas City if needed.

Lions kicker Jake Bates did provide a highlight against the Giants hitting a 53-yard field goal attempt.  The fact that the kick was outdoors and during less than ideal weather conditions provided some excitement for Lions fans.

During Not The Same Old Lions Podcast, Matthew Soltysiak discusses how making that kick along with the approach Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes have taken with Bates (not bringing in another kicker after the Badgley injury) could help build his confidence and help Bates get to the next level.  He also provides some encouragement for fans wondering if Bates might be the guy to hold down that roster spot heading into the regular season.

The development of multiple Lions players will be crucial during this next stretch.  Detroit is still looking for players to step up, especially at the wide receiver 3 position.  An unexpected release of Antione Green (injured during the Giants game) adds just one more layer of uncertainty to that position. 

During their Monday practice the Lions saw multiple players fall to injury.  Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw both showed promise during the preseason game against the Giants, but both left practice early due to injury.  Getting reps is important for these young players, especially with all the new pieces in the secondary.  Another key player leaving practice early was Jahmyr Gibbs.  It is reported that Gibbs injured his hamstring. 

To listen to the entire conversation on these topics and for more Detroit Lions content you can follow Not The Same Old Lions Podcast on Spotify, Apple and other major podcast platforms including YouTube or simply find the show link here.