Lions Articles:
National Media:
Haloti Ngata hoping to shake off some dust in Detroit Lions return: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18628/haloti-ngata-hoping-to-shake-off-some-dust-in-detroit-lions-return
Thumbs-up for Lions QB Matthew Stafford this preseason: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18587/thumbs-up-for-lions-qb-matthew-stafford-this-preseason
Musings: Trouble in the trenches (Detroit Lions: Detroit's Golden Tate might be the best No. 2 receiver in the NFL. Tate caught a 62-yard touchdown pass against the Jaguars last Friday night and also had a nice move after catching a pass earlier in the game. With Calvin Johnsonout last year, Tate did some really good things as the Lions' top receiver. With Johnson on the field, Tate is relegated to playing second fiddle to Johnson. But it's clear that all those who said Seattle didn't have a good receiver when he was there were way off base. Tate is perfect for Matthew Stafford and company. In Seattle, he was an appendage to a running offense and the limited passing attack.): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/writer/pete-prisco/25285796/preseason-musings-why-the-quality-of-o-line-play-in-the-nfl-is-putrid
Grades for Jaguars-Lions: https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/08/31/grades-for-jaguars-lions/
Local Media:
NOTEBOOK: Bell gets work in with first team: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Bell-gets-work-in-with-first-team/a72adcdb-7fe0-4480-a3cf-a8e82a0d4a52
TWENTYMAN: Lions begin roster cuts: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider-short/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Lions-begin-roster-cuts/9f7c7e61-bb18-4849-a42d-cfb8a82ab80a
Lions' Joique Bell says he's exceeded his expectations: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/detroit-lions-joique-bell/71486788/
Lions cut Ryan Broyles days after WR asks for release: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/ryan-broyles-detroit-lions/71447238/
Ryan Broyles joins Lions’ long list of failures: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/drew-sharp/2015/08/31/drew-sharp-detroit-lions-broyles/71495942/
Lions trade Brindza, get TE Wright from Buccaneers: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/tim-wright-trade-detroit-lions/71452352/
Wayne State product Martin among Lions’ cuts: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/wayne-state-product-martin-among-lions-cuts/71459438/
Ebron, Van Noy, Ansah return to Lions practice: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/ebron-van-noy-ansah-return-lions-practice/71480294/
Chances ‘slim’ Lions’ Calvin Johnson plays vs. Bills: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/chances-slim-lions-calvin-johnson-plays-vs-bills/71486982/
Lions get TE Wright from Bucs for K Brindza: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/detroit-lions-tampa-bay-buccaneers-trade-tim-wright/71451744/
Detroit Lions cut 9 players, place 1 on IR; still have 3 moves to go: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_cut_10_players_s.html
Lions' Kyle Van Noy makes surprising return to practice; Ezekiel Ansah, Eric Ebron back too: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_kyle_van_noy_makes_surpr.html
Lions' Kyle Van Noy feels good after returning to practice; status for final preseason game uncertain: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/kyle_van_noy_feels_good_after.html
Lions' Calvin Johnson likely won't play against Bills in preseason finale: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_calvin_johnson_likely_wo.html
Shirtless Joseph Fauria ducks questions about Lions' trade: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/shirtless_joseph_fauria_ducks.html
Practice notes: Van Noy returns, Joique Bell, more: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/31/9234883/practice-notes-kyle-van-noy-back-joique-bell
Video:
National Media:
Next Gen stats: Ameer Abdullah vs. Zach Zenner: http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000519147
Local Media:
Caldwell on Monday's roster moves: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Caldwell-on-Mondays-roster-moves/a18dc011-5911-497c-b1e1-86d4827d7a4f
Bell on returning to practice: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Bell-on-returning-to-practice/ddb4a11d-edae-4de6-9714-c49117f2087b
Lance Moore on Broyles: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Lance-Moore-on-Broyles/bf154e74-3333-4bc6-995b-b99b15d28096
Tapp on Ngata: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-Ngata/900640a7-c3dc-4a2d-9a47-96cf0ab2cf75
Ngata on coming off of the NFL list: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Ngata-on-coming-off-of-the-NFI-list/37c2f487-fe22-4299-a117-4504bfc28e62
Van Noy on getting healthy: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Van-Noy-on-getting-healthy/8f75c0b5-f033-4ff4-bd4c-15a369bca162
TORI AND TIM: Analyzing Monday trade & roster cuts: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/TORI-AND-TIM-Analyzing-Monday-trade--roster-cuts/5e84510c-11e2-4158-be94-8c44a3778d2b
Monday, August 31, 2015
Afternoon Lions Links for Monday 8-31-15
Lions Articles:
National Media:
Glover Quin: I'm looking forward to Game 1, Philip Rivers: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18299/glover-quin-im-looking-forward-to-game-1-philip-rivers
Detroit Lions didn't have room for Ryan Broyles: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18608/detroit-lions-didnt-have-room-for-ryan-broyles
Laken Tomlinson noticed increased physicality in first Lions start: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18603/laken-tomlinson-noticed-increased-physicality-in-first-lions-start
Notes from preseason Week 3 (Notes: Rookie free agent Zach Zenner, a 5-11, 223-pound truck, is either going to med school this fall or playing for the Lions. He continued his quest for the latter, with an eight-carry, 85-yard night in Jacksonville … Allen Hurns, who came out of nowhere last year as an undrafted free agent from the University of Miami, continues to appear to be Bortles’ favorite target. Four targets, four receptions in this game … Golden Tate is going to be Matthew Stafford’s best friend if he keeps it up. With Calvin Johnson resting, Tate caught a perfect 62-yard strike from Stafford to open Detroit’s scoring … The Jags want T.J. Yeldon to win a prominent role in the running game, but he’s going to have to be better than he was in this game: eight carries, 10 yards, mostly stonewalls. Stat of the day: Zenner, an undrafted free agent from South Dakota State, rushed for 2,044, 2,015 and 2,019 yards in his last three college seasons.): http://mmqb.si.com/mmqb/2015/08/30/deflategate-concussion-movie-preseason-week-3-nfl
Flurry of NFL trades go down; should Lions' Eric Ebron be concerned? (The Tampa Bay Buccaneers traded tight end Tim Wright to the Detroit Lions to give them another pass-catching tight end. But isn't that what Eric Ebron, the 10th overall pick of the 2014 draft, was supposed to provide? Wright got off to a nice start early last season with the New England Patriots after coming over in the Logan Mankins deal but was an afterthought down the title stretch. He was waived and claimed by the Bucs, who originally signed Wright after he went undrafted in 2013. Ebron isn't in any trouble for a roster spot, but there is growing concern that he might never fulfill his massive potential — even a little more than a year into his tenure there. But Ebron seems rather unaffected by the news of the Wright deal or his status on the team.): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/flurry-of-trades-go-down--should-lions--eric-ebron-be-concerned-152546373.html
Local Media:
TWENTYMAN: Lions trade for TE Tim Wright: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Lions-trade-for-TE-Tim-Wright/9c069e4d-9ac3-4cbc-814a-971279119986
O'HARA'S MONDAY COUNTDOWN: Zenner more than just a good story: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-MONDAY-COUNTDOWN-Zenner-more-than-just-a-good-story/137ea4cf-bc10-4712-984b-2435a150241c
5 players Lions could have had instead of Ryan Broyles: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/ryan-broyles-detroit-lions/71451216/
Roster moves: Ngata, Bell activated, nine cut: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/haloti-ngata-detroit-lions/71474316/
Ansah, Van Noy back at practice; Levy still out: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/detroit-lions-practice-injury-report/71477990/
Fauria elusive, cryptic after Lions trade for TE: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/detroit-lions-joseph-fauria/71488446/
Detroit Lions trade for pass-catching TE Timothy Wright; Joseph Fauria's future unclear: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_trade_for_pass-c.html
Column: Ryan Broyles' departure from Detroit Lions was inevitable: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/column_ryan_broyles_departure.html
Detroit Lions parting ways with WR Ryan Broyles: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_parting_ways_wit.html
Column: The Detroit Lions offense will be better in 2015: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/column_its_no_longer_a_matter.html
Notes: O-line rankings, Megatron in Madden, more: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/31/9229371/lions-notes-offensive-line-rankings-calvin-johnson-madden
Video:
Local Media:
Lions cutting Ryan Broyles a good move for both parties: http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/71450316/
National Media:
Glover Quin: I'm looking forward to Game 1, Philip Rivers: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18299/glover-quin-im-looking-forward-to-game-1-philip-rivers
Detroit Lions didn't have room for Ryan Broyles: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18608/detroit-lions-didnt-have-room-for-ryan-broyles
Laken Tomlinson noticed increased physicality in first Lions start: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18603/laken-tomlinson-noticed-increased-physicality-in-first-lions-start
Notes from preseason Week 3 (Notes: Rookie free agent Zach Zenner, a 5-11, 223-pound truck, is either going to med school this fall or playing for the Lions. He continued his quest for the latter, with an eight-carry, 85-yard night in Jacksonville … Allen Hurns, who came out of nowhere last year as an undrafted free agent from the University of Miami, continues to appear to be Bortles’ favorite target. Four targets, four receptions in this game … Golden Tate is going to be Matthew Stafford’s best friend if he keeps it up. With Calvin Johnson resting, Tate caught a perfect 62-yard strike from Stafford to open Detroit’s scoring … The Jags want T.J. Yeldon to win a prominent role in the running game, but he’s going to have to be better than he was in this game: eight carries, 10 yards, mostly stonewalls. Stat of the day: Zenner, an undrafted free agent from South Dakota State, rushed for 2,044, 2,015 and 2,019 yards in his last three college seasons.): http://mmqb.si.com/mmqb/2015/08/30/deflategate-concussion-movie-preseason-week-3-nfl
Flurry of NFL trades go down; should Lions' Eric Ebron be concerned? (The Tampa Bay Buccaneers traded tight end Tim Wright to the Detroit Lions to give them another pass-catching tight end. But isn't that what Eric Ebron, the 10th overall pick of the 2014 draft, was supposed to provide? Wright got off to a nice start early last season with the New England Patriots after coming over in the Logan Mankins deal but was an afterthought down the title stretch. He was waived and claimed by the Bucs, who originally signed Wright after he went undrafted in 2013. Ebron isn't in any trouble for a roster spot, but there is growing concern that he might never fulfill his massive potential — even a little more than a year into his tenure there. But Ebron seems rather unaffected by the news of the Wright deal or his status on the team.): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/flurry-of-trades-go-down--should-lions--eric-ebron-be-concerned-152546373.html
Local Media:
TWENTYMAN: Lions trade for TE Tim Wright: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Lions-trade-for-TE-Tim-Wright/9c069e4d-9ac3-4cbc-814a-971279119986
O'HARA'S MONDAY COUNTDOWN: Zenner more than just a good story: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-MONDAY-COUNTDOWN-Zenner-more-than-just-a-good-story/137ea4cf-bc10-4712-984b-2435a150241c
5 players Lions could have had instead of Ryan Broyles: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/ryan-broyles-detroit-lions/71451216/
Roster moves: Ngata, Bell activated, nine cut: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/haloti-ngata-detroit-lions/71474316/
Ansah, Van Noy back at practice; Levy still out: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/detroit-lions-practice-injury-report/71477990/
Fauria elusive, cryptic after Lions trade for TE: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/detroit-lions-joseph-fauria/71488446/
Detroit Lions trade for pass-catching TE Timothy Wright; Joseph Fauria's future unclear: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_trade_for_pass-c.html
Column: Ryan Broyles' departure from Detroit Lions was inevitable: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/column_ryan_broyles_departure.html
Detroit Lions parting ways with WR Ryan Broyles: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_parting_ways_wit.html
Column: The Detroit Lions offense will be better in 2015: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/column_its_no_longer_a_matter.html
Notes: O-line rankings, Megatron in Madden, more: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/31/9229371/lions-notes-offensive-line-rankings-calvin-johnson-madden
Video:
Local Media:
Lions cutting Ryan Broyles a good move for both parties: http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/71450316/
Sunday, August 30, 2015
Morning Lions Links for Monday 8-31-15
Lions Articles:
National Media:
Difficult decisions await Detroit Lions, Jim Caldwell, as cut days loom: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18592/difficult-decisions-await-detroit-lions-jim-caldwell-as-cut-day-looms
Mailbag: What will Zach Zenner's role be if he makes Detroit Lions?: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18582/mailbag-what-will-zach-zenners-role-be-if-he-makes-detroit-lions
Ranking top 10 offensive lines in the NFL (9. Detroit Lions: This one is a bit of a wild card, as it’s difficult to project rookie Laken Tomlinson’s performance in Year 1, but I believe that even with Manny Ramirez in the starting lineup the Lions will outperform their 14th overall ranking from last season. Larry Warford is coming off of a sophomore slump, but we know what he is capable of after allowing 16 total pressures and winning our Rookie of the Year award in 2013. If center Travis Swanson can outperform Dominic Raiola, our fifth-lowest-graded center a year ago, then this will be a very solid O-line. That is a big “if”, though, as Swanson himself only managed a -10.7 overall grade in 379 snaps split between center and right guard a year ago.): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/08/30/ranking-top-10-offensive-lines-in-the-nfl/
Lions-Jaguars PFF Grades: The Stafford-Tate Connection: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/30/9224573/lions-jaguars-pff-grades-matthew-stafford-golden-tate
Local Media:
Windsor: Stafford showing poise, maturity, ability to lead: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/detroit-lions-matthew-stafford/71443386/
Picture perfect: Lions' Tapp motivated by last year's snub: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/detroit-lions-darryl-tapp/71421268/
Lions' Bell says he's close to returning: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/detroit-lions-joique-bell/71415286/
No gloves? Lions OL Taylor Boggs can handle it: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/no-gloves-lions-ol-taylor-boggs-can-handle-it/71430200/
Ross on bubble to make roster with season approaching: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/ross-bubble-make-roster-season-approaching/71435736/
Lions' Caldwell won't commit to keeping three QBs: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/lions-jim-caldwell-wont-commit-to-keeping-three-qbs/71426480/
Jim Caldwell not looking forward to first round of cuts: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/jim-caldwell-looking-forward-first-round-cuts/71438756/
Lions first-rounder Laken Tomlinson earns mixed reviews in first start: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_first-rounder_laken_toml_2.html
Ryan Broyles among the tough cuts Detroit Lions expected to make this week: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/ryan_broyles_among_the_tough_c.html
Detroit Lions not locked into keeping 3 quarterbacks: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_not_locked_into.html
Jim Caldwell quotes from Saturday: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/30/9227913/jim-caldwell-quotes-from-saturday
Notes: Reggie Bush, more Packers injuries: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/30/9227751/lions-notes-reggie-bush-packers-injuries
Miscellaneous:
National Media:
Report: Packers WR Cobb has ‘minor’ AC joint sprain: http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/08/30/green-bay-packers-randall-cobb-injury-shoulder-ac-joint
Chicago Bears cut longtime starting cornerback Tim Jennings: http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/chicago-bears-cut-longtime-starting-cornerback-tim-jennings-224159627.html
Chargers say Seahawks rookie Frank Clark tried to punch Philip Rivers: http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/chargers-say-seahawks-rookie-frank-clark-tried-to-punch-philip-rivers-222925643.html
Is it the gloves? NFL may look into if 'tacky' mitts make game too easy: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25284996/is-it-the-gloves-nfl-may-look-into-if-gloves-give-wrs-an-unfair-advantage
Video:
National Media:
Preseason Week 3: Top 5 catches (Tate TD is 4th): http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000518578
National Media:
Difficult decisions await Detroit Lions, Jim Caldwell, as cut days loom: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18592/difficult-decisions-await-detroit-lions-jim-caldwell-as-cut-day-looms
Mailbag: What will Zach Zenner's role be if he makes Detroit Lions?: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18582/mailbag-what-will-zach-zenners-role-be-if-he-makes-detroit-lions
Ranking top 10 offensive lines in the NFL (9. Detroit Lions: This one is a bit of a wild card, as it’s difficult to project rookie Laken Tomlinson’s performance in Year 1, but I believe that even with Manny Ramirez in the starting lineup the Lions will outperform their 14th overall ranking from last season. Larry Warford is coming off of a sophomore slump, but we know what he is capable of after allowing 16 total pressures and winning our Rookie of the Year award in 2013. If center Travis Swanson can outperform Dominic Raiola, our fifth-lowest-graded center a year ago, then this will be a very solid O-line. That is a big “if”, though, as Swanson himself only managed a -10.7 overall grade in 379 snaps split between center and right guard a year ago.): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/08/30/ranking-top-10-offensive-lines-in-the-nfl/
Lions-Jaguars PFF Grades: The Stafford-Tate Connection: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/30/9224573/lions-jaguars-pff-grades-matthew-stafford-golden-tate
Local Media:
Windsor: Stafford showing poise, maturity, ability to lead: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/detroit-lions-matthew-stafford/71443386/
Picture perfect: Lions' Tapp motivated by last year's snub: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/detroit-lions-darryl-tapp/71421268/
Lions' Bell says he's close to returning: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/detroit-lions-joique-bell/71415286/
No gloves? Lions OL Taylor Boggs can handle it: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/no-gloves-lions-ol-taylor-boggs-can-handle-it/71430200/
Ross on bubble to make roster with season approaching: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/ross-bubble-make-roster-season-approaching/71435736/
Lions' Caldwell won't commit to keeping three QBs: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/lions-jim-caldwell-wont-commit-to-keeping-three-qbs/71426480/
Jim Caldwell not looking forward to first round of cuts: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/jim-caldwell-looking-forward-first-round-cuts/71438756/
Lions first-rounder Laken Tomlinson earns mixed reviews in first start: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_first-rounder_laken_toml_2.html
Ryan Broyles among the tough cuts Detroit Lions expected to make this week: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/ryan_broyles_among_the_tough_c.html
Detroit Lions not locked into keeping 3 quarterbacks: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_not_locked_into.html
Jim Caldwell quotes from Saturday: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/30/9227913/jim-caldwell-quotes-from-saturday
Notes: Reggie Bush, more Packers injuries: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/30/9227751/lions-notes-reggie-bush-packers-injuries
Miscellaneous:
National Media:
Report: Packers WR Cobb has ‘minor’ AC joint sprain: http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/08/30/green-bay-packers-randall-cobb-injury-shoulder-ac-joint
Chicago Bears cut longtime starting cornerback Tim Jennings: http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/chicago-bears-cut-longtime-starting-cornerback-tim-jennings-224159627.html
Chargers say Seahawks rookie Frank Clark tried to punch Philip Rivers: http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/chargers-say-seahawks-rookie-frank-clark-tried-to-punch-philip-rivers-222925643.html
Is it the gloves? NFL may look into if 'tacky' mitts make game too easy: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25284996/is-it-the-gloves-nfl-may-look-into-if-gloves-give-wrs-an-unfair-advantage
Video:
National Media:
Preseason Week 3: Top 5 catches (Tate TD is 4th): http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000518578
Saturday, August 29, 2015
Morning Lions Links for Sunday 8-30-15
Lions Articles:
National Media:
Lions' Bell (knee, Achilles) progressing in rehab: http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/13540505/running-back-joique-bell-detroit-lions-moving-really-well-comeback-offseason-surgery
Rookies Abdullah, Zenner filling in nicely for Lions: http://sports.yahoo.com/news/rookies-abdullah-zenner-filling-nicely-lions-004519165--nfl.html
Philip Rivers bangs throwing hand, says “it’s good”: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/08/29/philip-rivers-bangs-throwing-hand-says-its-good/
More preseason injuries: Three Packers injured, including Randall Cobb: http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/more-preseason-injuries--three-packers--including-randall-cobb--injured-025508295.html
Local Media:
Notebook: Joique Bell Close To Coming Off Pup: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Joique-Bell-close-to-coming-off-PUP/9f39ca6e-cee1-426d-8fe3-35551780d7b1
Stafford Impressing, Even Without Megatron: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Stafford-impressing-even-without-Megatron/f0105dbe-cee1-4c31-b953-dcb1a9efe9d6
Detroit At Jacksonville: Social Recap: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/article-1/Detroit-at-Jacksonville-Social-Recap/6a605aa2-48aa-4699-b20c-afc37c32011d
Lions' Reid out of walking boot, ankle getting better: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-caraun-reid-injury/71398728/
Birkett: Lions' exhibition craze Zenner has earned spot: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/detroit-lions-zach-zenner/71412838/
Lions OG Laken Tomlinson: We're at brink of greatness: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-laken-tomlinson/71405102/
Lions Ticker: Ex-Packer says Megatron has to do more with lessTicker (Really, former Green Bay Packers wide receiver Antonio Freeman meant it to be a compliment for Calvin Johnson. The rest of the Lions' offense, not so much. "I think he's still an elite receiver," said Freeman, who now works for Comcast SportsNet Washington (via Washington Post). "I think he's still in the top three, if not the best. The amount of problems that he causes. ... And they never had a legitimate running game. He still gets double-teamed. He doesn't have a great offensive line. His size, his strength — to me, he's still the No.1 receiver in the game. "Take nothing away from Matthew Stafford. But he's not Tom Brady. He's not Peyton Manning. He's not Drew Brees. (Johnson) has to do it with less. He's on the low end of the totem pole when it comes to that. Can you imagine what he would do if he had a running game where you had to respect the play-action, where you had to think twice about double-teaming him?"): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/ticker-antonio-freeman-calvin-johnson/71407630/
Stafford's sterling preseason: Prelude to big 2015?: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/staffords-sterling-preseason-prelude-big-2015/71411720/
Caldwell optimistic: Bell, Ngata 'look really good': http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/jim-caldwell-optimistic-lions-joique-bell-haloti-ngata-look-really-good/71399486/
Injured Ansah aims for Lions' opener vs. Chargers: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/injured-ezekiel-ansah-aims-for-lions-opener-vs-chargers/71382330/
Injury 'disrupts, doesn't destroy' Caraun Reid's big plans: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/injury-disrupts-doesnt-destroy-caraun-reids-big-plans/71400492/
Lions' Van Noy thinks he'll avoid losing half a season again: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/lions-kyle-van-noy-thinks-hell-avoid-losing-half-a-season-again/71397220/
Lions LB Kyle Van Noy says short-term IR won't be necessary: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_lb_kyle_van_noy_says_sho.html
Detroit Lions snap counts: Starting defense gets a workout against Jacksonville: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_snap_counts_jack.html
Detroit Lions notes: Joique Bell progresses; Laken Tomlinson optimistic: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150829/detroit-lions-notes-joique-bell-progresses-laken-tomlinson-optimistic
Detroit Lions — Five players on or near the bubble: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150829/detroit-lions-x2014-five-players-on-or-near-the-bubble
Pat Caputo - Conclusive answers coming from Matthew Stafford and Detroit Lions in 2015: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150829/pat-caputo-conclusive-answers-coming-from-matthew-stafford-and-detroit-lions-in-2015
The 5 Best Moves The Detroit Lions Made During The Offseason: http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/08/29/the-5-best-moves-the-detroit-lions-made-during-the-offseason/
Video:
Local Media:
Caldwell on the players on the bubble: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Caldwell-on-the-players-on-the-bubble/8623d22d-6d80-49fe-9d64-4185edbbfc84
Abdullah on running back depth: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Abdullah-on-running-back-depth/f4284407-eb86-4d10-a18f-8bdcdb1f8894
Bell on Zenner: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Bell-on-Zenner/7a1b70e9-37ad-40b4-b080-bbcc7af6f750
Zenner on his NFL opportunity: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Zenner-on-his-NFL-opportunity/2939c18d-4225-410a-9b45-0a62b90dc207
Fuller on the receiving core: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Fuller-on-the-receiving-core/48d33f2c-d8a1-4774-bfb0-83e297382f2f
Salas on being on the roster bubble: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Salas-on-being-on-the-roster-bubble/cf13fc78-321e-433d-9a09-8919c5faa8b0
Tomlinson on playing with the first team: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tomlinson-on-playing-with-the-first-team/ad9fed93-9120-4ebd-be8b-73e079c39f39
Hunt on his performance: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Hunt-on-his-performance/35a06d3b-a618-4f99-960b-eb12d33fd7c4
Reid on his recovery: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Reid-on-his-recovery/9d321386-ccec-48b2-b27f-63ac11d9fdf5
Van Noy on his recovery: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Van-Noy-on-his-recovery/7938286a-e0c5-4ad8-91bf-dcaec02766d6
Any way Zach Zenner doesn't make Lions?: http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/71397252/
National Media:
Lions' Bell (knee, Achilles) progressing in rehab: http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/13540505/running-back-joique-bell-detroit-lions-moving-really-well-comeback-offseason-surgery
Rookies Abdullah, Zenner filling in nicely for Lions: http://sports.yahoo.com/news/rookies-abdullah-zenner-filling-nicely-lions-004519165--nfl.html
Philip Rivers bangs throwing hand, says “it’s good”: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/08/29/philip-rivers-bangs-throwing-hand-says-its-good/
More preseason injuries: Three Packers injured, including Randall Cobb: http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/more-preseason-injuries--three-packers--including-randall-cobb--injured-025508295.html
Local Media:
Notebook: Joique Bell Close To Coming Off Pup: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Joique-Bell-close-to-coming-off-PUP/9f39ca6e-cee1-426d-8fe3-35551780d7b1
Stafford Impressing, Even Without Megatron: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Stafford-impressing-even-without-Megatron/f0105dbe-cee1-4c31-b953-dcb1a9efe9d6
Detroit At Jacksonville: Social Recap: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/article-1/Detroit-at-Jacksonville-Social-Recap/6a605aa2-48aa-4699-b20c-afc37c32011d
Lions' Reid out of walking boot, ankle getting better: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-caraun-reid-injury/71398728/
Birkett: Lions' exhibition craze Zenner has earned spot: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/detroit-lions-zach-zenner/71412838/
Lions OG Laken Tomlinson: We're at brink of greatness: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-laken-tomlinson/71405102/
Lions Ticker: Ex-Packer says Megatron has to do more with lessTicker (Really, former Green Bay Packers wide receiver Antonio Freeman meant it to be a compliment for Calvin Johnson. The rest of the Lions' offense, not so much. "I think he's still an elite receiver," said Freeman, who now works for Comcast SportsNet Washington (via Washington Post). "I think he's still in the top three, if not the best. The amount of problems that he causes. ... And they never had a legitimate running game. He still gets double-teamed. He doesn't have a great offensive line. His size, his strength — to me, he's still the No.1 receiver in the game. "Take nothing away from Matthew Stafford. But he's not Tom Brady. He's not Peyton Manning. He's not Drew Brees. (Johnson) has to do it with less. He's on the low end of the totem pole when it comes to that. Can you imagine what he would do if he had a running game where you had to respect the play-action, where you had to think twice about double-teaming him?"): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/ticker-antonio-freeman-calvin-johnson/71407630/
Stafford's sterling preseason: Prelude to big 2015?: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/staffords-sterling-preseason-prelude-big-2015/71411720/
Caldwell optimistic: Bell, Ngata 'look really good': http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/jim-caldwell-optimistic-lions-joique-bell-haloti-ngata-look-really-good/71399486/
Injured Ansah aims for Lions' opener vs. Chargers: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/injured-ezekiel-ansah-aims-for-lions-opener-vs-chargers/71382330/
Injury 'disrupts, doesn't destroy' Caraun Reid's big plans: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/injury-disrupts-doesnt-destroy-caraun-reids-big-plans/71400492/
Lions' Van Noy thinks he'll avoid losing half a season again: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/lions-kyle-van-noy-thinks-hell-avoid-losing-half-a-season-again/71397220/
Lions LB Kyle Van Noy says short-term IR won't be necessary: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_lb_kyle_van_noy_says_sho.html
Detroit Lions snap counts: Starting defense gets a workout against Jacksonville: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_snap_counts_jack.html
Detroit Lions notes: Joique Bell progresses; Laken Tomlinson optimistic: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150829/detroit-lions-notes-joique-bell-progresses-laken-tomlinson-optimistic
Detroit Lions — Five players on or near the bubble: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150829/detroit-lions-x2014-five-players-on-or-near-the-bubble
Pat Caputo - Conclusive answers coming from Matthew Stafford and Detroit Lions in 2015: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150829/pat-caputo-conclusive-answers-coming-from-matthew-stafford-and-detroit-lions-in-2015
The 5 Best Moves The Detroit Lions Made During The Offseason: http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/08/29/the-5-best-moves-the-detroit-lions-made-during-the-offseason/
Video:
Local Media:
Caldwell on the players on the bubble: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Caldwell-on-the-players-on-the-bubble/8623d22d-6d80-49fe-9d64-4185edbbfc84
Abdullah on running back depth: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Abdullah-on-running-back-depth/f4284407-eb86-4d10-a18f-8bdcdb1f8894
Bell on Zenner: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Bell-on-Zenner/7a1b70e9-37ad-40b4-b080-bbcc7af6f750
Zenner on his NFL opportunity: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Zenner-on-his-NFL-opportunity/2939c18d-4225-410a-9b45-0a62b90dc207
Fuller on the receiving core: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Fuller-on-the-receiving-core/48d33f2c-d8a1-4774-bfb0-83e297382f2f
Salas on being on the roster bubble: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Salas-on-being-on-the-roster-bubble/cf13fc78-321e-433d-9a09-8919c5faa8b0
Tomlinson on playing with the first team: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tomlinson-on-playing-with-the-first-team/ad9fed93-9120-4ebd-be8b-73e079c39f39
Hunt on his performance: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Hunt-on-his-performance/35a06d3b-a618-4f99-960b-eb12d33fd7c4
Reid on his recovery: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Reid-on-his-recovery/9d321386-ccec-48b2-b27f-63ac11d9fdf5
Van Noy on his recovery: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Van-Noy-on-his-recovery/7938286a-e0c5-4ad8-91bf-dcaec02766d6
Any way Zach Zenner doesn't make Lions?: http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/71397252/
Afternoon Lions Links for Saturday 8-29-15
Lions Articles:
National Media:
Some changes updating Lions' 53-man roster projection: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18577/some-changes-updating-the-detroit-lions-53-man-roster-projection
Local Media:
Stafford: No preseason reps needed with Calvin Johnson: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/matthew-stafford-preseason/71373170/
Lions' Ziggy Ansah vows he'll be back by Week 1: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-injuries/71370338/
Van Noy: Injury won't keep me out long: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-kyle-van-noy/71396368/
Our updated Detroit Lions 53-man roster projections: Phillip Hunt, Taylor Boggs make the cut: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_53-man_roster_pr.html
Detroit Lions' Joique Bell continuing to progress, but being ready Week 1 not a lock: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_joique_bell_cont.html
Lions haven't decided whether Tahir Whitehead is still a starter: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_have_yet_to_make_determi.html
Jim Caldwell calls Detroit Lions' defensive performance a needed wake-up call: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/jim_caldwell_calls_detroit_lio.html
Winners & Losers from Lions' victory over Jaguars: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/29/9223745/winners-losers-lions-jaguars-preseason
Lions note: More on the Lions 22-17 victory: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/29/9224067/lions-notes-more-on-ions-victory-over-jaguars
Video:
PRESEASON GAME 3 LIONS VS JAGUARS VIDEOS: http://captainbluelionslinks.blogspot.com/2015/08/preseason-game-3-lions-vs-jaguars-videos.html
National Media:
Some changes updating Lions' 53-man roster projection: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18577/some-changes-updating-the-detroit-lions-53-man-roster-projection
Local Media:
Stafford: No preseason reps needed with Calvin Johnson: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/matthew-stafford-preseason/71373170/
Lions' Ziggy Ansah vows he'll be back by Week 1: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-injuries/71370338/
Van Noy: Injury won't keep me out long: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-kyle-van-noy/71396368/
Our updated Detroit Lions 53-man roster projections: Phillip Hunt, Taylor Boggs make the cut: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_53-man_roster_pr.html
Detroit Lions' Joique Bell continuing to progress, but being ready Week 1 not a lock: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_joique_bell_cont.html
Lions haven't decided whether Tahir Whitehead is still a starter: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_have_yet_to_make_determi.html
Jim Caldwell calls Detroit Lions' defensive performance a needed wake-up call: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/jim_caldwell_calls_detroit_lio.html
Winners & Losers from Lions' victory over Jaguars: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/29/9223745/winners-losers-lions-jaguars-preseason
Lions note: More on the Lions 22-17 victory: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/29/9224067/lions-notes-more-on-ions-victory-over-jaguars
Video:
PRESEASON GAME 3 LIONS VS JAGUARS VIDEOS: http://captainbluelionslinks.blogspot.com/2015/08/preseason-game-3-lions-vs-jaguars-videos.html
Morning Lions Links for Saturday 8-29-15 Part 2
Lions Articles:
National Media:
Golden Tate once again comes up big for Detroit Lions: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18572/golden-tate-once-again-comes-up-big-for-detroit-lions
Things we WON'T be talking about by midseason (2. "Running back by committee? Yeah, that's the right approach in Detroit." No chance anyone will say this about the Lionsfor the foreseeable future. Rookie Ameer Abdullah, as I've written before, is an absolute gem. He was a steal for Detroit in the back half of the second round, and it's only a matter of time before he steals the bulk of the snaps in the Lions' backfield. (Apologies to Joique Belland Theo Riddick.) Abdullah is a true all-around back. With rare lateral quickness and agility, he's quite a threat running the football. And he's also a weapon in the passing game, as evidenced by his seven receiving touchdowns over his final three years at Nebraska. I see Abdullah being right in the mix for Offensive Rookie of the Year.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000517196/article/melvin-gordon-a-bust-jimmy-garoppolo-a-stud-not-so-fast
What we learned: Chiefs boast new set of triplets (Detroit Lions 22, Jacksonville Jaguars 17: 1. For the second straight summer, Blake Bortles has given Jaguars fans reason for hope. This time around, he has shown noticeably improved mechanics, touch and poise in Greg Olsen's new offense. Playing without Pro Bowl tight end Julius Thomas and No. 2 receiver Marqise Lee, Bortles' first-team offense converted 10 of 12 third-down opportunities. An early second-quarter touchdown marked the seventh consecutive scoring drive for Bortles, going back to the preseason opener. Through three weeks, he has completed 39 of 60 (65.0 percent) passes for 461 yards (7.7 YPA) and a 93.8 passer rating. If Bortles' mechanical fix holds for 18 more weeks, the Jaguars will have a young star at quarterback. 2. After missing the last two weeks with a finger injury, second-round rookie T.J. Yeldon started at running back and played an every-down role on the first series. Yeldon also handled the goal-line opportunities after Denard Robinson entered as the lead back early in the second quarter. If this is a committee attack to start the season, Yeldon appears to be at the forefront. 3. Lions rookie sensation Ameer Abdullah not only worked as the first-team kickoff returner, but also earned the first carry of the game in the backfield. He's locked and loaded for a major role regardless of Joique Bell's health. The more interesting question is how the Lions could possibly cut hard-charging undrafted rookie Zach Zenner after a third consecutive strong showing. Seeing action with the first- and second-string offenses, Zenner led the Lions with 85 yards on eight carries, bringing his preseason average to 6.5 yards per carry. If Bell isn't ready for Week 1, Zenner's size and physicality will be needed between the tackles.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000517581/article/what-we-learned-chiefs-boast-new-set-of-triplets
10 Preseason Takeaways (8. Someone needs to tell the Lions defense that tight ends are eligible. Although Bortles was impressive, we have to give some credit for his big night to the Lions defense, who seemed to forget that tight ends were eligible. Of Bortles' 245 yards on Friday, 123 of those went to tight ends. Marcedes Lewis led the way for Jacksonville with a team-high 51 yards on three catches. 9. You might want to get Golden Tate on your fantasy team. Golden Tate was a human highlight show against the Jaguars on Friday night. With Calvin Johnson out of the lineup, Tate put wowed the crowd with three catches for 91 yards and a touchdown. If Megatron comes back 100 percent healthy, Tate should see a lot of one-on-one coverage this year and that should mean big games like the one he had against Jacksonville. 10. A missed extra point is probably going to decide a game or two this year. Lions kickerMatt Prater and Chiefs kicker Cairo Santos both joined a club on Friday that no kicker wants to join: The "I missed an extra point" club. Although Santos' miss came in a 34-10 win and didn't really mean anything, Prater's miss came in a close 22-17 win and could've been costly if it had happened during the regular season. The missed kick turned a potential tie game into a 14-13 Jaguars lead and things got worse later when the Lions missed a two-pointer they attempted on the first touchdown they scored after Prater's miss. Don't be surprised if we see a kicker or two lose his job this season over a missed extra point.): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25283855/tom-brady-struggles-cam-newtons-wr-issues-10-preseason-takeaways
NFL preseason Week 3: Matthew Stafford, Alex Smith nearly perfect (The Lions' Matthew Stafford was also impressive, completing 11 of 15 passes for 173 yards and two touchdowns in the first half with no Calvin Johnson. Lions running back Ameer Abdullah couldn't pull off any of the magic that made people praise him during Detroit's first exhibition. He had just three carries for 8 yards and a 21-yard reception. Undrafted rookie running back Zach Zenner put on a show, though. Zenner worked a little with the first-team offense and finished with eight carries for 85 yards and a touchdown. It's yet another impressive preseason performance. In Week 1 he had 55 rushing yards on 13 carries and in Week 2 he had nine total touches for 81 all-purpose yards.): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-08-28/nfl-highlights-patriots-panthers-titans-chiefs-lions-jaguars-brad-stafford-alex-smith
Loss of Suh leaves Lions defense in tough spot: http://mmqb.si.com/mmqb/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-defense-ndamukong-suh-departure-haloti-ngata-nfl-matthew-stafford
Local Media:
NOTEBOOK: Explaining Whitehead’s playing time: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Explaining-Whitehead%E2%80%99s-playing-time/65fbf549-d3c7-4275-898c-4b63badfe3b2
Four Downs: Wake-up Call For Defense: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/FOUR-DOWNS-Wake-up-call-for-defense/49d7a12e-d3ca-4d2d-aac0-ccfedd4b1d4e
O'hara: Stafford-tate Td Turning Point For Lions: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Stafford-Tate-TD-turning-point-for-Lions/5c3ee169-210e-450c-9600-dba838851199
Lions RBs Zenner, Abdullah continue to shine: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-ameer-abdullah-zach-zenner/71365962/
How Lions scored in 22-17 win over Jaguars: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/how-detroitlions-scored-against-jacksonvillejaguars/71360138/
Ex-Wolverines Robinson, Henne help light up Lions: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars-denard-robinson/71368984/
Lewis gets surprise start, Whitehead to bench for Lions: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/tahir-whitehead-benched/71369052/
Whitehead accomplishes goals after Lewis gets start: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/whitehead-accomplishes-goals-lewis-gets-start/71368444/
Lions’ Zenner showing coaches he can operate: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/lions-zenner-showing-coaches-can-operate/71370826/
Lions’ Ebron sits, Caldwell says he’s OK: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/lions-ebron-sits-caldwell-says-ok/71371114/
Column: Now leading the NFL in rushing, Zach Zenner has to make Lions roster: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/column_zach_zenner_leading_the.html
Video:
PRESEASON GAME 3 LIONS VS JAGUARS VIDEOS: http://captainbluelionslinks.blogspot.com/2015/08/preseason-game-3-lions-vs-jaguars-videos.html
National Media:
Golden Tate once again comes up big for Detroit Lions: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18572/golden-tate-once-again-comes-up-big-for-detroit-lions
Things we WON'T be talking about by midseason (2. "Running back by committee? Yeah, that's the right approach in Detroit." No chance anyone will say this about the Lionsfor the foreseeable future. Rookie Ameer Abdullah, as I've written before, is an absolute gem. He was a steal for Detroit in the back half of the second round, and it's only a matter of time before he steals the bulk of the snaps in the Lions' backfield. (Apologies to Joique Belland Theo Riddick.) Abdullah is a true all-around back. With rare lateral quickness and agility, he's quite a threat running the football. And he's also a weapon in the passing game, as evidenced by his seven receiving touchdowns over his final three years at Nebraska. I see Abdullah being right in the mix for Offensive Rookie of the Year.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000517196/article/melvin-gordon-a-bust-jimmy-garoppolo-a-stud-not-so-fast
What we learned: Chiefs boast new set of triplets (Detroit Lions 22, Jacksonville Jaguars 17: 1. For the second straight summer, Blake Bortles has given Jaguars fans reason for hope. This time around, he has shown noticeably improved mechanics, touch and poise in Greg Olsen's new offense. Playing without Pro Bowl tight end Julius Thomas and No. 2 receiver Marqise Lee, Bortles' first-team offense converted 10 of 12 third-down opportunities. An early second-quarter touchdown marked the seventh consecutive scoring drive for Bortles, going back to the preseason opener. Through three weeks, he has completed 39 of 60 (65.0 percent) passes for 461 yards (7.7 YPA) and a 93.8 passer rating. If Bortles' mechanical fix holds for 18 more weeks, the Jaguars will have a young star at quarterback. 2. After missing the last two weeks with a finger injury, second-round rookie T.J. Yeldon started at running back and played an every-down role on the first series. Yeldon also handled the goal-line opportunities after Denard Robinson entered as the lead back early in the second quarter. If this is a committee attack to start the season, Yeldon appears to be at the forefront. 3. Lions rookie sensation Ameer Abdullah not only worked as the first-team kickoff returner, but also earned the first carry of the game in the backfield. He's locked and loaded for a major role regardless of Joique Bell's health. The more interesting question is how the Lions could possibly cut hard-charging undrafted rookie Zach Zenner after a third consecutive strong showing. Seeing action with the first- and second-string offenses, Zenner led the Lions with 85 yards on eight carries, bringing his preseason average to 6.5 yards per carry. If Bell isn't ready for Week 1, Zenner's size and physicality will be needed between the tackles.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000517581/article/what-we-learned-chiefs-boast-new-set-of-triplets
10 Preseason Takeaways (8. Someone needs to tell the Lions defense that tight ends are eligible. Although Bortles was impressive, we have to give some credit for his big night to the Lions defense, who seemed to forget that tight ends were eligible. Of Bortles' 245 yards on Friday, 123 of those went to tight ends. Marcedes Lewis led the way for Jacksonville with a team-high 51 yards on three catches. 9. You might want to get Golden Tate on your fantasy team. Golden Tate was a human highlight show against the Jaguars on Friday night. With Calvin Johnson out of the lineup, Tate put wowed the crowd with three catches for 91 yards and a touchdown. If Megatron comes back 100 percent healthy, Tate should see a lot of one-on-one coverage this year and that should mean big games like the one he had against Jacksonville. 10. A missed extra point is probably going to decide a game or two this year. Lions kickerMatt Prater and Chiefs kicker Cairo Santos both joined a club on Friday that no kicker wants to join: The "I missed an extra point" club. Although Santos' miss came in a 34-10 win and didn't really mean anything, Prater's miss came in a close 22-17 win and could've been costly if it had happened during the regular season. The missed kick turned a potential tie game into a 14-13 Jaguars lead and things got worse later when the Lions missed a two-pointer they attempted on the first touchdown they scored after Prater's miss. Don't be surprised if we see a kicker or two lose his job this season over a missed extra point.): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25283855/tom-brady-struggles-cam-newtons-wr-issues-10-preseason-takeaways
NFL preseason Week 3: Matthew Stafford, Alex Smith nearly perfect (The Lions' Matthew Stafford was also impressive, completing 11 of 15 passes for 173 yards and two touchdowns in the first half with no Calvin Johnson. Lions running back Ameer Abdullah couldn't pull off any of the magic that made people praise him during Detroit's first exhibition. He had just three carries for 8 yards and a 21-yard reception. Undrafted rookie running back Zach Zenner put on a show, though. Zenner worked a little with the first-team offense and finished with eight carries for 85 yards and a touchdown. It's yet another impressive preseason performance. In Week 1 he had 55 rushing yards on 13 carries and in Week 2 he had nine total touches for 81 all-purpose yards.): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-08-28/nfl-highlights-patriots-panthers-titans-chiefs-lions-jaguars-brad-stafford-alex-smith
Loss of Suh leaves Lions defense in tough spot: http://mmqb.si.com/mmqb/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-defense-ndamukong-suh-departure-haloti-ngata-nfl-matthew-stafford
Local Media:
NOTEBOOK: Explaining Whitehead’s playing time: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Explaining-Whitehead%E2%80%99s-playing-time/65fbf549-d3c7-4275-898c-4b63badfe3b2
Four Downs: Wake-up Call For Defense: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/FOUR-DOWNS-Wake-up-call-for-defense/49d7a12e-d3ca-4d2d-aac0-ccfedd4b1d4e
O'hara: Stafford-tate Td Turning Point For Lions: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Stafford-Tate-TD-turning-point-for-Lions/5c3ee169-210e-450c-9600-dba838851199
Lions RBs Zenner, Abdullah continue to shine: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-ameer-abdullah-zach-zenner/71365962/
How Lions scored in 22-17 win over Jaguars: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/how-detroitlions-scored-against-jacksonvillejaguars/71360138/
Ex-Wolverines Robinson, Henne help light up Lions: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars-denard-robinson/71368984/
Lewis gets surprise start, Whitehead to bench for Lions: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/tahir-whitehead-benched/71369052/
Whitehead accomplishes goals after Lewis gets start: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/whitehead-accomplishes-goals-lewis-gets-start/71368444/
Lions’ Zenner showing coaches he can operate: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/lions-zenner-showing-coaches-can-operate/71370826/
Lions’ Ebron sits, Caldwell says he’s OK: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/lions-ebron-sits-caldwell-says-ok/71371114/
Column: Now leading the NFL in rushing, Zach Zenner has to make Lions roster: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/column_zach_zenner_leading_the.html
Video:
PRESEASON GAME 3 LIONS VS JAGUARS VIDEOS: http://captainbluelionslinks.blogspot.com/2015/08/preseason-game-3-lions-vs-jaguars-videos.html
Friday, August 28, 2015
Morning Lions Links for Saturday 8-29-15 Part 1
Lions Articles:
National Media:
Offensive starters shine, defense struggles for Detroit Lions: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18556/offensive-starters-shine-defense-struggles-for-detroit-lions
Matthew Stafford continued his strong preseason against Jacksonville: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18552/matthew-stafford-continued-his-strong-preseason-against-jacksonville
Zach Zenner proves he deserves roster spot with Detroit Lions: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18564/zach-zenner-proves-he-deserves-roster-spot-with-detroit-lions
Stock Report: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18558/matthew-stafford-zach-zenner-stand-out-for-detroit-lions
Stafford, Bortles shine as Lions beat Jaguars 22-17: http://sports.yahoo.com/news/stafford-bortles-shine-lions-beat-jaguars-22-17-031230382--nfl.html
Local Media:
RECAP: Lions at Jaguars: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/RECAP-Lions-at-Jaguars/aedb2f47-d659-418e-a6ff-a41cf8e3c3c9
O'hara's Burning Questions: What Happened To Defense In 1st Half?: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara-burning-questions/article-1/OHARAS-BURNING-QUESTIONS-What-happened-to-defense-in-1st-half/c8b0f5ee-3b56-4048-93f5-b7dd7959ab0a
Detroit 22, Jacksonville 17: Lions' defense needs work: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars/71354100/
Lions observations: Abdullah gets first carry; Zenner shines: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-observations/71348162/
Lions doing early homework on opener vs. Chargers: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-regular-season/71345264/
Offense shines, defense struggles as Lions win: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/offense-shines-defense-struggles-lions-win/71358214/
Battle for Lions fullback a ‘very heated battle’: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/contest-lions-fullback-heated-battle/71349792/
Copeland using his many skills to land spot with Lions: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/copeland-using-many-skills-land-spot-lions/71345372/
Lions Zach Zenner drags defenders into end zone for game-winning TD against Jags: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_zach_zenner_drags_defend.html
Detroit Lions stock report: Matthew Stafford ready for regular season, Zach Zenner strengthens case: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_stock_report.html
Halftime analysis: Jaguars 14, Lions 13: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/halftime_analysis_lions_jaguar.html
9 potential starters sidelined for Lions, including 6 linemen; Calvin Johnson out too: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/10_potential_starters_sideline.html
Detroit Lions — Five things learned in win over Jaguars: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150828/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-learned-in-win-over-jaguars
Detroit Lions notes: Run game up to speed in win over Jaguars: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150828/detroit-lions-notes-run-game-up-to-speed-in-win-over-jaguars
Video:
Preseason Game 3 Lions Vs Jaguars Videos: http://captainbluelionslinks.blogspot.com/2015/08/preseason-game-3-lions-vs-jaguars-videos.html
*Note: I'll post more links later on.
National Media:
Offensive starters shine, defense struggles for Detroit Lions: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18556/offensive-starters-shine-defense-struggles-for-detroit-lions
Matthew Stafford continued his strong preseason against Jacksonville: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18552/matthew-stafford-continued-his-strong-preseason-against-jacksonville
Zach Zenner proves he deserves roster spot with Detroit Lions: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18564/zach-zenner-proves-he-deserves-roster-spot-with-detroit-lions
Stock Report: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18558/matthew-stafford-zach-zenner-stand-out-for-detroit-lions
Stafford, Bortles shine as Lions beat Jaguars 22-17: http://sports.yahoo.com/news/stafford-bortles-shine-lions-beat-jaguars-22-17-031230382--nfl.html
Local Media:
RECAP: Lions at Jaguars: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/RECAP-Lions-at-Jaguars/aedb2f47-d659-418e-a6ff-a41cf8e3c3c9
O'hara's Burning Questions: What Happened To Defense In 1st Half?: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara-burning-questions/article-1/OHARAS-BURNING-QUESTIONS-What-happened-to-defense-in-1st-half/c8b0f5ee-3b56-4048-93f5-b7dd7959ab0a
Detroit 22, Jacksonville 17: Lions' defense needs work: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars/71354100/
Lions observations: Abdullah gets first carry; Zenner shines: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-observations/71348162/
Lions doing early homework on opener vs. Chargers: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-regular-season/71345264/
Offense shines, defense struggles as Lions win: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/offense-shines-defense-struggles-lions-win/71358214/
Battle for Lions fullback a ‘very heated battle’: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/contest-lions-fullback-heated-battle/71349792/
Copeland using his many skills to land spot with Lions: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/copeland-using-many-skills-land-spot-lions/71345372/
Lions Zach Zenner drags defenders into end zone for game-winning TD against Jags: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_zach_zenner_drags_defend.html
Detroit Lions stock report: Matthew Stafford ready for regular season, Zach Zenner strengthens case: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_stock_report.html
Halftime analysis: Jaguars 14, Lions 13: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/halftime_analysis_lions_jaguar.html
9 potential starters sidelined for Lions, including 6 linemen; Calvin Johnson out too: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/10_potential_starters_sideline.html
Detroit Lions — Five things learned in win over Jaguars: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150828/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-learned-in-win-over-jaguars
Detroit Lions notes: Run game up to speed in win over Jaguars: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150828/detroit-lions-notes-run-game-up-to-speed-in-win-over-jaguars
Video:
Preseason Game 3 Lions Vs Jaguars Videos: http://captainbluelionslinks.blogspot.com/2015/08/preseason-game-3-lions-vs-jaguars-videos.html
*Note: I'll post more links later on.
Preseason Game 3 Lions Vs Jaguars Videos
Video:
Highlights:
Can't-Miss Play: Stafford to Tate for a 62 yard touchdown: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517426/Can-t-Miss-Play-Stafford-to-Tate-for-a-62-yard-touchdown
Stafford to Fuller for 4-yard touchdown: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517447/Stafford-to-Fuller-for-4-yard-touchdown
Stafford pass short middle to Tate for 22 yards: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517394/Stafford-pass-short-middle-to-Tate-for-22-yards
Zenner runs 41 yards: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517441/Zenner-runs-41-yards
Henne sacked after fumble, recovery by Whitehead: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517510/Henne-sacked-after-fumble-recovery-by-Whitehead
Lions vs. Jaguars highlights: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517392/Lions-vs-Jaguars-highlights
Interviews:
Caldwell On The Third Preseaon Game: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Caldwell-on-the-third-preseaon-game/38433840-743a-4469-bb44-b784ca040e84
Stafford on his preseason performance: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Stafford-on-his-preseason-performance/93dbedff-6c79-4b0c-b68d-7de4dd9cb41f
RB Ameer Abdullah talks about his comfort with the offensive playbook: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Abdullah-on-his-comfort-with-the-playbook/a742e17b-8c5a-4cb5-9574-802d0e91d61b
Postgame 1 on 1 with Zach Zenner: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Postgame-1-on-1-with-Zach-Zenner/596a12b8-4e3f-4a40-b65a-bf77369ee8b9
Tapp on the defense against the Jaguars: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-the-defense-against-the-Jaguars/977a9bb6-8eb4-40b8-a746-53afb8e02d7f
Mathis on playing the Jaguars: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Mathis-on-playing-the-Jaguars/59f29962-9323-40c4-80b8-1d3e308f3b83
Recaps:
Defense struggles on third down in Jacksonville: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Defense-struggles-on-third-down-in-Jacksonville/0561e94f-fef8-42bd-a602-d1b4bd9f2b11
Lions 22, Jaguars 17: Defense struggles, Zenner shines: http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/71363970/
Watch Detroit Lions reporters provide instant reaction to team's 22-17 win over Jacksonville Jaguars: http://videos.mlive.com/mlive/2015/08/watch_detroit_lions_reporters_25.html
Highlights:
Can't-Miss Play: Stafford to Tate for a 62 yard touchdown: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517426/Can-t-Miss-Play-Stafford-to-Tate-for-a-62-yard-touchdown
Stafford to Fuller for 4-yard touchdown: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517447/Stafford-to-Fuller-for-4-yard-touchdown
Stafford pass short middle to Tate for 22 yards: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517394/Stafford-pass-short-middle-to-Tate-for-22-yards
Zenner runs 41 yards: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517441/Zenner-runs-41-yards
Henne sacked after fumble, recovery by Whitehead: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517510/Henne-sacked-after-fumble-recovery-by-Whitehead
Lions vs. Jaguars highlights: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000517392/Lions-vs-Jaguars-highlights
Interviews:
Caldwell On The Third Preseaon Game: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Caldwell-on-the-third-preseaon-game/38433840-743a-4469-bb44-b784ca040e84
Stafford on his preseason performance: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Stafford-on-his-preseason-performance/93dbedff-6c79-4b0c-b68d-7de4dd9cb41f
RB Ameer Abdullah talks about his comfort with the offensive playbook: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Abdullah-on-his-comfort-with-the-playbook/a742e17b-8c5a-4cb5-9574-802d0e91d61b
Postgame 1 on 1 with Zach Zenner: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Postgame-1-on-1-with-Zach-Zenner/596a12b8-4e3f-4a40-b65a-bf77369ee8b9
Tapp on the defense against the Jaguars: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-the-defense-against-the-Jaguars/977a9bb6-8eb4-40b8-a746-53afb8e02d7f
Mathis on playing the Jaguars: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Mathis-on-playing-the-Jaguars/59f29962-9323-40c4-80b8-1d3e308f3b83
Recaps:
Defense struggles on third down in Jacksonville: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Defense-struggles-on-third-down-in-Jacksonville/0561e94f-fef8-42bd-a602-d1b4bd9f2b11
Lions 22, Jaguars 17: Defense struggles, Zenner shines: http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/71363970/
Watch Detroit Lions reporters provide instant reaction to team's 22-17 win over Jacksonville Jaguars: http://videos.mlive.com/mlive/2015/08/watch_detroit_lions_reporters_25.html
Afternoon Lions Links for Friday 8-28-15
Lions Articles:
National Media:
Who is the featured red zone target for all 32 teams? NFL Nation has the answers (Detroit Lions: Calvin Johnson. His size, speed and leaping ability have led to 58 career receptions and 41 career touchdowns in the red zone. If you're looking for a sleeper, it would be the two tight ends –Eric Ebron and Joseph Fauria. Fauria's size and good hands made him a favorite red zone target for Matthew Stafford in 2013 and seven of his eight career touchdowns have been on red zone passes. Ebron could develop as a favorite in this area as well because of his size and athleticism.): http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/175970/who-is-the-featured-red-zone-target-for-all-32-teams-nfl-nation-has-the-answers
Who are the running backs to watch near the goal line? NFL Nation has the answers (Detroit Lions: As long as Joique Bell is healthy, he's going to be the between-the-tackles guy for the Lions throughout the season. So expect him to maintain a goal-line role. A sleeper could be fullback Michael Burton since the Lions likely won't be shy to run a fullback set close to the goal line. But as far as running backs, Bell is your goal-line guy -- at least to begin the season. If he gets hurt, it's anyone's guess.): http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/175988/who-are-the-running-backs-to-watch-near-the-goal-line-nfl-nation-has-the-answers
Matthew Stafford, Golden Tate expected to get extended playing time Friday: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18543/matthew-stafford-golden-tate-expected-to-see-extended-work-friday
Some tight position battles with Detroit Lions could shake out on Friday: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18548/some-tight-position-battles-with-detroit-lions-could-shake-out-friday
Lions OL Cornelius Lucas lost almost everything in Hurricane Katrina: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18533/lions-ol-cornelius-lucas-lost-almost-everything-in-hurricane-katrina
NFL, NFLPA tweak start of new league year: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/08/28/nfl-nflpa-tweak-start-of-new-league-year/
Local Media:
5 things to watch: Lions at Jaguars: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/5-things-to-watch-Lions-at-Jaguars/0b4fbfe3-fb0f-4ee9-837c-bd275176875c
O'HARA'S FINAL THOUGHTS: More carries possible for Abdullah: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-FINAL-THOUGHTS-More-carries-possible-for-Abdullah/57223724-846f-42cf-9e0c-10bd2294a2ac
Lions inactives: Megatron out, Fuller starts at WR: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars-inactives/71339140/
Igwenagu, Burton neck-and-neck for Lions' fullback job: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/who--detroit-lions-fullback/71299510/
Breaks are built in for Lions receivers: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/2015/08/28/breaks-built-receivers/71294148/
Lions starters Waddle, Jones won’t play against Jaguars: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/lions-starters-waddle-jones-play-jags/71294324/
Igwenagu has Lions doubling down at fullback: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/2015/08/28/igwenagu-has-lions-doubling-down-fullback/71308872/
10 Detroit Lions to watch: Starters, rookies and roster battles, oh my: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_to_watch_jackson.html
The 41 words that are driving Jermelle Cudjo's big camp with Lions: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/the_41_words_that_are_driving.html
Detroit Lions' kick return competition could spill into regular season: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_kick_return_comp.html
Detroit Lions — Tonight’s game key for starters: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150828/detroit-lions-x2014-tonights-game-key-for-starters
Rob Parker: Ngata's absence a concern for Lions: http://www.clickondetroit.com/sports/parkersconfidential/rob-parker-ngatas-absence-a-concern-for-lions/34970564
Notes: Ameer Abdullah, Rashean Mathis and more: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/28/9219055/lions-notes-ameer-abdullah-rashean-mathis
Lions at Jaguars: 5 storylines to watch: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/28/9219109/lions-at-jaguars-5-storylines-to-watch-preseason
Video:
Local Media:
Watch Detroit Lions reporters break down what to watch against Jaguars: http://videos.mlive.com/mlive/2015/08/watch_detroit_lions_reporters_24.html
National Media:
Who is the featured red zone target for all 32 teams? NFL Nation has the answers (Detroit Lions: Calvin Johnson. His size, speed and leaping ability have led to 58 career receptions and 41 career touchdowns in the red zone. If you're looking for a sleeper, it would be the two tight ends –Eric Ebron and Joseph Fauria. Fauria's size and good hands made him a favorite red zone target for Matthew Stafford in 2013 and seven of his eight career touchdowns have been on red zone passes. Ebron could develop as a favorite in this area as well because of his size and athleticism.): http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/175970/who-is-the-featured-red-zone-target-for-all-32-teams-nfl-nation-has-the-answers
Who are the running backs to watch near the goal line? NFL Nation has the answers (Detroit Lions: As long as Joique Bell is healthy, he's going to be the between-the-tackles guy for the Lions throughout the season. So expect him to maintain a goal-line role. A sleeper could be fullback Michael Burton since the Lions likely won't be shy to run a fullback set close to the goal line. But as far as running backs, Bell is your goal-line guy -- at least to begin the season. If he gets hurt, it's anyone's guess.): http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/175988/who-are-the-running-backs-to-watch-near-the-goal-line-nfl-nation-has-the-answers
Matthew Stafford, Golden Tate expected to get extended playing time Friday: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18543/matthew-stafford-golden-tate-expected-to-see-extended-work-friday
Some tight position battles with Detroit Lions could shake out on Friday: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18548/some-tight-position-battles-with-detroit-lions-could-shake-out-friday
Lions OL Cornelius Lucas lost almost everything in Hurricane Katrina: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18533/lions-ol-cornelius-lucas-lost-almost-everything-in-hurricane-katrina
NFL, NFLPA tweak start of new league year: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/08/28/nfl-nflpa-tweak-start-of-new-league-year/
Local Media:
5 things to watch: Lions at Jaguars: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/5-things-to-watch-Lions-at-Jaguars/0b4fbfe3-fb0f-4ee9-837c-bd275176875c
O'HARA'S FINAL THOUGHTS: More carries possible for Abdullah: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-FINAL-THOUGHTS-More-carries-possible-for-Abdullah/57223724-846f-42cf-9e0c-10bd2294a2ac
Lions inactives: Megatron out, Fuller starts at WR: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars-inactives/71339140/
Igwenagu, Burton neck-and-neck for Lions' fullback job: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/who--detroit-lions-fullback/71299510/
Breaks are built in for Lions receivers: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/2015/08/28/breaks-built-receivers/71294148/
Lions starters Waddle, Jones won’t play against Jaguars: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/lions-starters-waddle-jones-play-jags/71294324/
Igwenagu has Lions doubling down at fullback: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/2015/08/28/igwenagu-has-lions-doubling-down-fullback/71308872/
10 Detroit Lions to watch: Starters, rookies and roster battles, oh my: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_to_watch_jackson.html
The 41 words that are driving Jermelle Cudjo's big camp with Lions: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/the_41_words_that_are_driving.html
Detroit Lions' kick return competition could spill into regular season: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_kick_return_comp.html
Detroit Lions — Tonight’s game key for starters: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150828/detroit-lions-x2014-tonights-game-key-for-starters
Rob Parker: Ngata's absence a concern for Lions: http://www.clickondetroit.com/sports/parkersconfidential/rob-parker-ngatas-absence-a-concern-for-lions/34970564
Notes: Ameer Abdullah, Rashean Mathis and more: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/28/9219055/lions-notes-ameer-abdullah-rashean-mathis
Lions at Jaguars: 5 storylines to watch: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/28/9219109/lions-at-jaguars-5-storylines-to-watch-preseason
Video:
Local Media:
Thursday, August 27, 2015
Morning Lions Links for Friday 8-28-15
Lions Articles:
National Media:
Tight Detroit Lions receiver race leaves Jim Caldwell looking for separation: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18524/tight-detroit-lions-receiver-race-leaves-jim-caldwell-looking-for-separation
Handicapping the Detroit Lions wide receiver race: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18528/handicapping-the-detroit-lions-wide-receiver-race
NFC North: Three-team Race (Detroit Lions: Two defensive departures -- one significant, the other less so -- make a defense that performed well last year a little less stable. For all his flaws, Ndamukong Suh leaves a gaping hole in that interior defensive line. Luckily, 2013 first-round pick Ziggy Ansah is there to pick up some of the slack. Notching 15.5 sacks, 81 combined tackles and five forced fumbles are closer to Suh's numbers over the last two years than you'd expect. Suh had 102 combined tackles, 14 sacks and just one forced fumble, missing two games while he compiled those stats. Can Ansah continue that without Suh at his side? Bringing in Haloti Ngata should help at least a little, and if the Lions can get pressure from outside linebackers Tahir Whitehead and DeAndre Levy, that would help, too. Offensively, not a lot changed. Reggie Bush is gone, but Joique Bell and Theo Riddick did just fine without him when he was injured last season. Plus, rookie Ameer Abdullah looked like the second coming of Barry Sanders against the New York Jets in the first week of the preseason, and it's clear he has a very solid skill set. Golden Tate and Calvin Johnson made quite the dynamic duo last season as well and should see no dropoff. The Lions look like they are in good shape heading into this season. How it plays out - 1. Green Bay Packers, 2. Minnesota Vikings, 3. Detroit Lions, 4. Chicago Bears. Oh yes, I think the Vikings leapfrog the Lions this year. Mind you, it'll be tight, but with Peterson back, a solid defense and an emerging talent in Bridgewater, I like them by a nose. The Bears? Sorry Chicago. I think it's a long year -- maybe a few -- as you reboot.): http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/145790374/nfc-north-preview-packers-favorites
Ameer Abdullah looking forward to being “in there consistently” on Friday: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/08/27/ameer-abdullah-looking-forward-to-being-in-there-consistently-on-friday/
Local Media:
O'hara: Camp Has Been A Kick For Kyle Brindza: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Camp-has-been-a-kick-for-Kyle-Brindza/215766c7-87e4-410b-b876-7f94f8220931
Quin Blog: Jacksonville Good Gauge For Season Opener: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/glover-quin/article-1/Quin-Blog-Jacksonville-good-gauge-for-season-opener/75a683c9-1814-4eaf-bfe1-e6b3f0aa7d68
5 things to watch in Lions vs. Jaguars: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/27/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars/32473459/
Teryl Austin: Head job can wait; more to do with Lions: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/27/teryl-austin-head-coach-lions/32469189/
Lions DE Hunt looking to cement spot: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-jaguars-hunt/71292090/
Five key position battles for the Lions: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/27/five-key-position-battles-lions/32477079/
Lions’ Mathis relishes Jacksonville homecoming: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/27/lions-mathis-relishes-jacksonville-homecoming/32485389/
Lions first-round pick Laken Tomlinson expected to get first start against Jaguars: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_first-round_pick_laken_t.html
13 players on the Detroit Lions' roster bubble: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/12_players_on_detroit_lions_ro.html
Detroit Lions won't dismiss possibility of carrying 2 fullbacks into regular season: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_wont_dismiss_the.html
Detroit Lions — Five to watch in preseason game at Jaguars: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150827/detroit-lions-x2014-five-to-watch-in-preseason-game-at-jaguars
Detroit Lions update: Roster cuts loom, first cut on Tuesday: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150827/detroit-lions-update-roster-cuts-loom-first-cut-on-tuesday
Lions notes: Michael Williams trade details, more: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/27/9213563/lions-notes-michael-williams-trade-details-travis-lewis
Video:
Local Media:
What is the potential for the Lions defense?: http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000516720
What to watch in the Jaguars vs Lions preseason game?: http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000516716
National Media:
Tight Detroit Lions receiver race leaves Jim Caldwell looking for separation: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18524/tight-detroit-lions-receiver-race-leaves-jim-caldwell-looking-for-separation
Handicapping the Detroit Lions wide receiver race: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18528/handicapping-the-detroit-lions-wide-receiver-race
NFC North: Three-team Race (Detroit Lions: Two defensive departures -- one significant, the other less so -- make a defense that performed well last year a little less stable. For all his flaws, Ndamukong Suh leaves a gaping hole in that interior defensive line. Luckily, 2013 first-round pick Ziggy Ansah is there to pick up some of the slack. Notching 15.5 sacks, 81 combined tackles and five forced fumbles are closer to Suh's numbers over the last two years than you'd expect. Suh had 102 combined tackles, 14 sacks and just one forced fumble, missing two games while he compiled those stats. Can Ansah continue that without Suh at his side? Bringing in Haloti Ngata should help at least a little, and if the Lions can get pressure from outside linebackers Tahir Whitehead and DeAndre Levy, that would help, too. Offensively, not a lot changed. Reggie Bush is gone, but Joique Bell and Theo Riddick did just fine without him when he was injured last season. Plus, rookie Ameer Abdullah looked like the second coming of Barry Sanders against the New York Jets in the first week of the preseason, and it's clear he has a very solid skill set. Golden Tate and Calvin Johnson made quite the dynamic duo last season as well and should see no dropoff. The Lions look like they are in good shape heading into this season. How it plays out - 1. Green Bay Packers, 2. Minnesota Vikings, 3. Detroit Lions, 4. Chicago Bears. Oh yes, I think the Vikings leapfrog the Lions this year. Mind you, it'll be tight, but with Peterson back, a solid defense and an emerging talent in Bridgewater, I like them by a nose. The Bears? Sorry Chicago. I think it's a long year -- maybe a few -- as you reboot.): http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/145790374/nfc-north-preview-packers-favorites
Ameer Abdullah looking forward to being “in there consistently” on Friday: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/08/27/ameer-abdullah-looking-forward-to-being-in-there-consistently-on-friday/
Local Media:
O'hara: Camp Has Been A Kick For Kyle Brindza: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Camp-has-been-a-kick-for-Kyle-Brindza/215766c7-87e4-410b-b876-7f94f8220931
Quin Blog: Jacksonville Good Gauge For Season Opener: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/glover-quin/article-1/Quin-Blog-Jacksonville-good-gauge-for-season-opener/75a683c9-1814-4eaf-bfe1-e6b3f0aa7d68
5 things to watch in Lions vs. Jaguars: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/27/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars/32473459/
Teryl Austin: Head job can wait; more to do with Lions: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/27/teryl-austin-head-coach-lions/32469189/
Lions DE Hunt looking to cement spot: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-jaguars-hunt/71292090/
Five key position battles for the Lions: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/27/five-key-position-battles-lions/32477079/
Lions’ Mathis relishes Jacksonville homecoming: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/27/lions-mathis-relishes-jacksonville-homecoming/32485389/
Lions first-round pick Laken Tomlinson expected to get first start against Jaguars: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_first-round_pick_laken_t.html
13 players on the Detroit Lions' roster bubble: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/12_players_on_detroit_lions_ro.html
Detroit Lions won't dismiss possibility of carrying 2 fullbacks into regular season: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_wont_dismiss_the.html
Detroit Lions — Five to watch in preseason game at Jaguars: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150827/detroit-lions-x2014-five-to-watch-in-preseason-game-at-jaguars
Detroit Lions update: Roster cuts loom, first cut on Tuesday: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150827/detroit-lions-update-roster-cuts-loom-first-cut-on-tuesday
Lions notes: Michael Williams trade details, more: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/27/9213563/lions-notes-michael-williams-trade-details-travis-lewis
Video:
Local Media:
What is the potential for the Lions defense?: http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000516720
What to watch in the Jaguars vs Lions preseason game?: http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000516716
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Morning Lions Links for Thursday 8-27-15
Lions Articles:
National Media:
Larry Webster still a work in progress for Detroit Lions: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18519/development-of-larry-webster-still-a-work-in-progress-for-detroit-lions
Every NFL team's most indispensable player, non-QB (For the Lions it's CJ): http://www.sportingnews.com/list/4653566-nfl-teams-most-indispensable-irreplaceable-most-valuable-players-2015-injuries/slide/349991
32 NFL Teams, 32 Breakout Candidates (Detroit: Ziggy Ansah, DE - He may be Ziggy to the world, but he'll always be Ezekiel to me. Ansah proved to be a stout run defender in addition to his 7.5 sacks and nearly fifty hit/hurries. He only played about 60 percent of the total snaps last year, a figure sure to rise as Ansah takes center stage in the newly Suh-less defense.): http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/145559014/nfl-2015-breakout-candidates-kelce-tannehill
Why Your Team Sucks 2015: Detroit Lions: http://deadspin.com/why-your-team-sucks-2015-detroit-lions-1726087529
Rashean Mathis coming home as Lions make trip to face Jaguars: http://jacksonville.com/sports/football/jaguars/2015-08-26/story/rashean-mathis-coming-home-lions-make-trip-face-jaguars
Local Media:
Notebook: Johnson Unlikely To See Game Action Friday: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Johnson-unlikely-to-see-game-action-Friday/5023e0ff-b84e-434c-aec9-10a5b550a569
Tomlinson ready to go if called upon to start: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Tomlinson-ready-to-go-if-called-upon-to-start/cfc09178-2188-400c-9187-bb9949657cd8
Levy, Ansah miss Lions practice again: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-injury-report/32401685/
Lions' WR battle shaping up to be a tight one: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/training-camp-cuts-2015/32431639/
Lions' Williams trade could open spot for Robinson: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-michael-williams/32413143/
Lions' Ameer Abdullah fine with running game by committee: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-ameer-abdullah-running-game-committee/32454965/
ESPN metrics: Lions' Golden Tate is underrated: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-tate-underrated/32396577/
Suh: Dolphins' defense has more talent than Lions: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-ndamukong-suh-miami-dolphins/32419727/
Lions hurry-up practices show Stafford's progress: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/hurry-practices-show-staffords-progress/32445841/
Foster: Lions’ Quin caught in trap of religion, sports: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/terry-foster/2015/08/26/foster-lions-quin-caught-trap-religion-sports/32409007/
Lions’ Calvin Johnson could sit out final 2 Preseason Games: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/lions-calvin-johnson-sit-final-exhibitions/32410527/
Lions on hunt for breakout backup receiver: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/lions-hunt-breakout-backup-receiver/32438431/
Lions’ Ebron, fiancee go ‘separate ways’: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/lions-ebron-fiancee-go-separate-ways/32415905/
Despite rough camp, rookie OT Corey Robinson could still make Lions roster: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/after_rough_start_to_camp_ot_c.html
Detroit Lions notes: Comfort at tackle spot; Megatron likely out: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150826/detroit-lions-notes-comfort-at-tackle-spot-megatron-likely-out
Detroit Lions — Five thoughts on the wide receiver battle: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150826/detroit-lions-x2014-five-thoughts-on-the-wide-receiver-battle
Injuries Piling Up As Lions Prepare To Face Jacksonville On Friday: http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/08/26/injuries-piling-up-as-lions-prepare-to-face-jacksonville-on-friday/
Lions Notes: Jim Caldwell Tuesday press conference: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/26/9210551/lions-notes-jim-caldwells-tuesday-press-conference-van-noy-calvin-johnson
Power Rankings:
Fox sports NFL power rankings (9. Detroit Lions: Losing Suh and Nick Fairley will sting, but the Lions did well to replace them with Haloti Ngata, and second-year defensive end Ezekiel Ansah is primed to take a big step forward in 2015. Even if the defense regresses, the offense will likely take a step forward. Entering the second-year in offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi’s scheme, the Lions made offseason improvements on the offensive line and at the skill positions.): http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/photos/nfl-power-rankings-denver-broncos-seattle-seahawks-dallas-cowboys-green-bay-packers-082615#img_24
Video:
Local Media:
Zenner on the team competition: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Zenner-on-the-team-competition/e8889b72-2b24-4b08-9073-db8a801be0d6
AskALion: Zach Zenner: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/AskALion-Zach-Zenner/11c60237-ba99-46ef-b9a5-ef65edd2256d
Fuller on his work ethic: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Fuller-on-his-work-ethic/38c55f85-e925-43bc-8eef-18e3f14d598c
Salas on the wide receiver competition: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Salas-on-the-wide-receiver-competition/fd7fee66-c816-42eb-a9aa-70645a46ce26
Caldwell on young players stepping up in preseason: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Caldwell-on-young-players-stepping-up-in-preseason/1798efb3-d332-421d-ad08-35fae234732d
Inside the Den: Lions Camp Week 3: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Inside-the-Den-Lions-Camp-Week-3/691d1ba1-c06d-4606-a7fd-75af0e55af1e
Tomlinson, Abdullah are Lions to watch this week: http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/32406337/
National Media:
Larry Webster still a work in progress for Detroit Lions: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18519/development-of-larry-webster-still-a-work-in-progress-for-detroit-lions
Every NFL team's most indispensable player, non-QB (For the Lions it's CJ): http://www.sportingnews.com/list/4653566-nfl-teams-most-indispensable-irreplaceable-most-valuable-players-2015-injuries/slide/349991
32 NFL Teams, 32 Breakout Candidates (Detroit: Ziggy Ansah, DE - He may be Ziggy to the world, but he'll always be Ezekiel to me. Ansah proved to be a stout run defender in addition to his 7.5 sacks and nearly fifty hit/hurries. He only played about 60 percent of the total snaps last year, a figure sure to rise as Ansah takes center stage in the newly Suh-less defense.): http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/145559014/nfl-2015-breakout-candidates-kelce-tannehill
Why Your Team Sucks 2015: Detroit Lions: http://deadspin.com/why-your-team-sucks-2015-detroit-lions-1726087529
Rashean Mathis coming home as Lions make trip to face Jaguars: http://jacksonville.com/sports/football/jaguars/2015-08-26/story/rashean-mathis-coming-home-lions-make-trip-face-jaguars
Local Media:
Notebook: Johnson Unlikely To See Game Action Friday: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Johnson-unlikely-to-see-game-action-Friday/5023e0ff-b84e-434c-aec9-10a5b550a569
Tomlinson ready to go if called upon to start: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Tomlinson-ready-to-go-if-called-upon-to-start/cfc09178-2188-400c-9187-bb9949657cd8
Levy, Ansah miss Lions practice again: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-injury-report/32401685/
Lions' WR battle shaping up to be a tight one: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/training-camp-cuts-2015/32431639/
Lions' Williams trade could open spot for Robinson: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-michael-williams/32413143/
Lions' Ameer Abdullah fine with running game by committee: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-ameer-abdullah-running-game-committee/32454965/
ESPN metrics: Lions' Golden Tate is underrated: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-tate-underrated/32396577/
Suh: Dolphins' defense has more talent than Lions: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-ndamukong-suh-miami-dolphins/32419727/
Lions hurry-up practices show Stafford's progress: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/hurry-practices-show-staffords-progress/32445841/
Foster: Lions’ Quin caught in trap of religion, sports: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/terry-foster/2015/08/26/foster-lions-quin-caught-trap-religion-sports/32409007/
Lions’ Calvin Johnson could sit out final 2 Preseason Games: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/lions-calvin-johnson-sit-final-exhibitions/32410527/
Lions on hunt for breakout backup receiver: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/lions-hunt-breakout-backup-receiver/32438431/
Lions’ Ebron, fiancee go ‘separate ways’: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/lions-ebron-fiancee-go-separate-ways/32415905/
Despite rough camp, rookie OT Corey Robinson could still make Lions roster: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/after_rough_start_to_camp_ot_c.html
Detroit Lions notes: Comfort at tackle spot; Megatron likely out: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150826/detroit-lions-notes-comfort-at-tackle-spot-megatron-likely-out
Detroit Lions — Five thoughts on the wide receiver battle: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150826/detroit-lions-x2014-five-thoughts-on-the-wide-receiver-battle
Injuries Piling Up As Lions Prepare To Face Jacksonville On Friday: http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/08/26/injuries-piling-up-as-lions-prepare-to-face-jacksonville-on-friday/
Lions Notes: Jim Caldwell Tuesday press conference: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/26/9210551/lions-notes-jim-caldwells-tuesday-press-conference-van-noy-calvin-johnson
Power Rankings:
Fox sports NFL power rankings (9. Detroit Lions: Losing Suh and Nick Fairley will sting, but the Lions did well to replace them with Haloti Ngata, and second-year defensive end Ezekiel Ansah is primed to take a big step forward in 2015. Even if the defense regresses, the offense will likely take a step forward. Entering the second-year in offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi’s scheme, the Lions made offseason improvements on the offensive line and at the skill positions.): http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/photos/nfl-power-rankings-denver-broncos-seattle-seahawks-dallas-cowboys-green-bay-packers-082615#img_24
Video:
Local Media:
Zenner on the team competition: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Zenner-on-the-team-competition/e8889b72-2b24-4b08-9073-db8a801be0d6
AskALion: Zach Zenner: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/AskALion-Zach-Zenner/11c60237-ba99-46ef-b9a5-ef65edd2256d
Fuller on his work ethic: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Fuller-on-his-work-ethic/38c55f85-e925-43bc-8eef-18e3f14d598c
Salas on the wide receiver competition: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Salas-on-the-wide-receiver-competition/fd7fee66-c816-42eb-a9aa-70645a46ce26
Caldwell on young players stepping up in preseason: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Caldwell-on-young-players-stepping-up-in-preseason/1798efb3-d332-421d-ad08-35fae234732d
Inside the Den: Lions Camp Week 3: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Inside-the-Den-Lions-Camp-Week-3/691d1ba1-c06d-4606-a7fd-75af0e55af1e
Tomlinson, Abdullah are Lions to watch this week: http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/32406337/
Afternoon Lions Links for Wednesday 8-26-15
Lions Articles:
National Media:
Calvin Johnson might not play Friday against Jacksonville: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18515/calvin-johnson-might-not-play-friday-against-jacksonville
Detroit Lions RB Zach Zenner puts off medical school to pursue NFL dream: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18505/detroit-lions-rb-zach-zenner-delaying-medical-school-to-pursue-nfl-career
Local Media:
Lions sign center Joe Madsen: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider-short/article-1/Lions-sign-center-Joe-Madsen/2282136c-7505-4b88-b7ca-ec1418784687
NFC NORTH: Second impressions: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NFC-NORTH-Second-impressions/f9e00108-1494-4219-81ce-da2d42f9b83b
Lions starters may play past halftime but not Megatron: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars/32398291/
Lions can't count on DE Webster this season: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/larry-webster-detroit-lions/32388235/
Caldwell likes Lions’ talent on offensive line: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/caldwell-likes-lions-talent-offensive-line/32400931/
Lions sign Joe Madsen to bolster offensive line depth; DeAndre Levy out again: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_sign_joe_madsen_to_bolst.html
Detroit Lions' Jason Jones, LaAdrian Waddle won't play against Jaguars: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_jason_jones_laad.html
Column: After Michael Williams trade, Lions' offensive line depth is unclear: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/column_after_trade_michael_wil.html
Detroit Lions update: Matthew Stafford faster by split second: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150826/detroit-lions-update-matthew-stafford-faster-by-split-second
Lions Notes: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/26/9210359/lions-notes-pickem-league-taylor-mays
National Media:
Calvin Johnson might not play Friday against Jacksonville: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18515/calvin-johnson-might-not-play-friday-against-jacksonville
Detroit Lions RB Zach Zenner puts off medical school to pursue NFL dream: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18505/detroit-lions-rb-zach-zenner-delaying-medical-school-to-pursue-nfl-career
Local Media:
Lions sign center Joe Madsen: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider-short/article-1/Lions-sign-center-Joe-Madsen/2282136c-7505-4b88-b7ca-ec1418784687
NFC NORTH: Second impressions: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NFC-NORTH-Second-impressions/f9e00108-1494-4219-81ce-da2d42f9b83b
Lions starters may play past halftime but not Megatron: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars/32398291/
Lions can't count on DE Webster this season: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/larry-webster-detroit-lions/32388235/
Caldwell likes Lions’ talent on offensive line: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/caldwell-likes-lions-talent-offensive-line/32400931/
Lions sign Joe Madsen to bolster offensive line depth; DeAndre Levy out again: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_sign_joe_madsen_to_bolst.html
Detroit Lions' Jason Jones, LaAdrian Waddle won't play against Jaguars: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_jason_jones_laad.html
Column: After Michael Williams trade, Lions' offensive line depth is unclear: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/column_after_trade_michael_wil.html
Detroit Lions update: Matthew Stafford faster by split second: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150826/detroit-lions-update-matthew-stafford-faster-by-split-second
Lions Notes: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/26/9210359/lions-notes-pickem-league-taylor-mays
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 8-26-15
Lions Articles:
National Media:
How the Detroit Lions might gauge Calvin Johnson's play percentage in 2015: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18497/how-the-detroit-lions-might-gauge-calvin-johnsons-play-percentage-in-2015
Detroit Lions waiting to hear second opinion on Kyle Van Noy injury: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18501/detroit-lions-waiting-to-hear-second-opinion-on-kyle-van-noy-injury
Detroit Lions continue to load up draft picks with Michael Williams trade: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18507/detroit-lions-continue-to-load-up-draft-picks-with-michael-williams-trade
NFC preseason player grades, Week 2 (Detroit Lions: Laken Tomlinson, OG - GRADE: B - Strengths: Tomlinson is a gritty blocker with strong hands and a powerful punch. He moves defenders off the ball in the run game, yet he also possesses the strength to anchor against power rushers in pass protection. He dominated Redskins' defenders for most of Thursday's contest, exhibiting the kind of power that should make him a solid run blocker down the line. Weaknesses: Tomlinson has limited athleticism and range in pass protection. Ricky Jean Francois slipped past him for a sack when Tomlinson stopped his feet and tipped over while engaging in hand-to-hand contact. Of course, Jean Francois's maneuver was a perfectly executed technique by a veteran defender. Still, Tomlinson needs to work on playing with good balance and body control in tight spaces. What he needs to work on: Tomlinson has been impressive as a first-year pro throughout the preseason. He has been a rock-solid run blocker and pretty effective in pass protection. Against the Jaguars in Week 3, Tomlinson needs to show better body control battling defenders at the point of attack in pass protection. If he can continue to make strides in that area, Jim Caldwell will feel better about inserting him into the lineup as an interior protector for Matthew Stafford.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000515873/article/nfc-preseason-player-grades-week-2-jameis-winston-steps-up
NFL Prediction: Lions among 4 teams that won't return to playoffs (4. Detroit Lions: Don't underestimate how much the loss of Ndamukong Suh will impact the Lions' fortunes in 2015. Last season, with Suh leading the way, the Lions surrendered an NFL-low 69 rushing yards per game. They finished second in total defense, eighth in sacks, tied-third in interceptions, and third in points per game. Suh led the way by being on the field for 909 snaps last season. And there's no doubt he made the players around him better. For example, take C.J. Mosley, who followed Suh to Miami this offseason. According to ESPN, when Suh and Mosley shared playing time over the past two seasons, "the Lions pressured opposing quarterbacks on 29 percent of dropbacks, including 18 sacks on 290 dropbacks (6.2 percent)." When Mosley was on the field but Suh wasn't, the Lions pressured opposing quarterback on just 20 percent of dropbacks and recorded just one sack in 163 dropbacks (0.6 percent). That's one way to measure Suh's impact on the game. In addition to Suh and Mosley, Nick Fairley is also long gone, having left for the Rams via free agency. Fairly was injured for a big chunk of last season, but in 2012 and 2013, he recorded 11.5 sacks. He will be missed. To replace Suh, the Lions brought in Haloti Ngata, formerly of the Ravens for nine seasons. Ngata has 25.5 sacks in his career and, more importantly, he's a force in the run game. But he's not the force that Suh is, not at this stage in his career. Furthermore, Ngata can't replace all of the bodies that the Lions lost on the defensive line. In addition to Suh, Fairley and Mosley, George Johnson also departed Detroit. According to Robert Mays of Grantland, the Lions are tasked with replacing nearly 1,500 snaps on their defensive line. And that's not including Suh's 909 snaps. Ngata can't do that by himself. There's also this alarming nugget: Ngata hasn't practiced since training camp started, as he's dealing with a bad hamstring. The Lions need Ngata to perform at his peak if they want to replicate last season's success. But that's probably not happening. As for the offense, Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate form one of the more impressive wide receiver duos in the league, Matthew Stafford is an above-average quarterback who the Lions don't need to worry about, and there's some rumblings that rookie running back Ameer Abdullah is going to break out. Here's why I'm concerned about the Lions offense: Last season, they weren't forced to score points at a high clip because of their stout defense. But if the defense takes a step back, which it probably will, that'll force the offense to produce more efficiently than it did last season. In 2014, Detroit finished 19th in yards per game and 22nd in points per game. Those rankings will need to jump in 2015. As for the division that the Lions find themselves in, the Packers still own the NFC North, even with Jordy Nelson sidelined for the season. The Vikings are emerging as one of the most promising, younger teams in the league, and the Bears won't be the joke that they were last season, now that they have an actual, functional coaching staff in place. Four of the Lions wins last season came against the Bears and the Vikings. It's tough to see them replicating that. And, finally, the Lions' Pythagorean win total was 9.2. They won 11 games. Alarm bells should be ringing.): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25279766/nfl-prediction-cards-bengals-are-2-of-4-teams-that-wont-return-to-playoffs
Tales From the Training Room: An NFL Injury Roundup (Detroit Lions: Our run of healthy teams ends in the Motor City, as the Lions have serious concerns on each side of the line of scrimmage. Already thinner after losing Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley, the Lions are still waiting to see star acquisition Haloti Ngata on the field. A lingering hamstring injury has kept Ngata out for the entirety of the preseason, and while that wouldn’t be quite as big of a deal in more familiar surroundings, the Lions desperately need Ngata to be healthy and effective in 2015. They’re also having concerns across from Ngata. Guard Larry Warford suffered a high ankle sprain on Thursday night, an injury that tends to be a three-to-five-week problem. Offensive linemen play through it more regularly than skill-position players, but even if Warford plays, it should limit his effectiveness. And starting halfback Joique Bell, already in danger of losing his job to promising second-rounder Ameer Abdullah, hasn’t practiced after undergoing offseason knee surgery.): http://grantland.com/the-triangle/tales-from-the-training-room-an-nfl-injury-roundup/
Local Media:
O'hara: Running Back By Committee For Lions: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Running-back-by-committee-for-Lions/85ba6d26-2357-45ec-9905-d40b723a26a7
10 takeaways from Austin & Lombardi: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/10-takeaways-from-Austin--Lombardi/a97c2eb8-de1b-43c6-8ee3-7698a6173a39
Lions practice update: Ngata works on the side: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/haloti-ngata-detroit-lions/32343019/
Lions' Van Noy looking at another lost season: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/kyle-van-noy-detroit-lions/32335045/
Lions in no rush to play Calvin Johnson in preseason: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions/32333701/
Lombardi: Lions QB Stafford knows system, shows leadership: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-matthew-stafford-leadership/32376361/
Lions' Tate offers Quin support on 'God' comment: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/glover-quin-jordy-nelson-god/32341683/
DeAndre Levy a surprise absence at Lions practice: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/deandre-levy-a-surprise-absence-at-lions-practice/32345037/
Wojo: Injured Ngata plays waiting game: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/wojo-lions-ngata-plays-waiting-game/32367919/
Lions' 'Dump Truck' Winn doesn't mind the dirty work: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/lions-dump-truck-george-winn-doesnt-mind--dirty-work/32321485/
Lions' Quin disappointed God comments taken: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/lions-quin-disappointed-god-comments-taken-out-of-context/32336077/
Calvin Johnson wants to play; Caldwell undecided: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/calvin-johnson-wants--play-caldwell-undecided/32338527/
Injured Van Noy not returning to Lions anytime soon: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/injured-kyle-van-noy-not-returning-to-lions-anytime-soon/32337367/
Detroit Lions swing another trade, ship Michael Williams to Patriots: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_swing_another_tr.html
Detroit Lions say DE Larry Webster must step up and quickly: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_say_larry_webste.html
A day later, Lions' Glover Quin doesn't back off his thoughts on God and Jordy Nelson: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_glover_quin_offers_no_ap.html
Detroit Lions notes — Kyle Van Noy defended by Teryl Austin: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150825/detroit-lions-notes-x2014-kyle-van-noy-defended-by-teryl-austin
Detroit Lions — Five reasons why running back by committee works: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150825/detroit-lions-x2014-five-reasons-why-running-back-by-committee-works
Lions' Matthew Stafford Trying To Make Jump Between 'Good' And 'Great': http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/08/25/matthew-stafford-lions-trying-to-make-jump-between-good-and-great/
Teryl Austin, Joe Lombardi quotes from Monday: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/25/9208627/lions-quotes-from-teryl-austin-and-joe-lombardi
Lions notes: Tuesday practice, injury update: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/25/9207447/lions-notes-tuesday-practice-injury-updates-ngata-ebron
Lions notes: Rob Sims retires: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/25/9204289/lions-notes-rob-sims-announces-retirement
Video:
Local Media:
Caldwell on position battles: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Caldwell-on-position-battles/d68fd746-d685-429e-9a86-91c328f6d0bc
Austin on the defense's performance in preseason: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Austin-on-the-defenses-performance-in-preseason/2c3fc783-9807-4372-b281-74a7648a4ba0
Lombardi on the offense's progression: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Lombardi-on-the-offenses-progression/c0a2770f-3251-47cd-b0d7-05e8da90f26d
Abdullah on adjusting to the NFL game: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Abdullah-on-adjusting-to-the-NFL-game/c78a449c-043a-4113-a2f2-ca85922ff05d
Tate on his comfort with the offense: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tate-on-his-comfort-with-the-offense/04f4703a-a270-4704-bdca-791358ec4eff
Tomlinson on getting more reps: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tomlinson-on-getting-more-reps/211630bb-6ddf-4b94-bf48-f5ea371b6de8
Tapp on Ngata: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-Ngata/d753c445-1d36-4486-b552-3f8bba7287c0
Quin on his comments about Jordy Nelson's injury: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Quin-on-his-comments-about-Jordy-Nelsons-injury/51c9a0b5-f705-4d8a-9219-2f6a835d7cdd
Wide receiver competition not letting up: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Wide-receiver-competition-not-letting-up/cf2002b8-bd51-459f-950a-cd09175a3933
To play or not to play Calvin Johnson?: http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/32343051/
Rod Beard and Josh Katzenstein on Kyle Van Noy: http://www.detroitnews.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/32354187/
Watch Detroit Lions reporters discuss the impact of Kyle Van Noy's latest injury: http://videos.mlive.com/mlive/2015/08/watch_detroit_lions_reporters_23.html
National Media:
How the Detroit Lions might gauge Calvin Johnson's play percentage in 2015: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18497/how-the-detroit-lions-might-gauge-calvin-johnsons-play-percentage-in-2015
Detroit Lions waiting to hear second opinion on Kyle Van Noy injury: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18501/detroit-lions-waiting-to-hear-second-opinion-on-kyle-van-noy-injury
Detroit Lions continue to load up draft picks with Michael Williams trade: http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18507/detroit-lions-continue-to-load-up-draft-picks-with-michael-williams-trade
NFC preseason player grades, Week 2 (Detroit Lions: Laken Tomlinson, OG - GRADE: B - Strengths: Tomlinson is a gritty blocker with strong hands and a powerful punch. He moves defenders off the ball in the run game, yet he also possesses the strength to anchor against power rushers in pass protection. He dominated Redskins' defenders for most of Thursday's contest, exhibiting the kind of power that should make him a solid run blocker down the line. Weaknesses: Tomlinson has limited athleticism and range in pass protection. Ricky Jean Francois slipped past him for a sack when Tomlinson stopped his feet and tipped over while engaging in hand-to-hand contact. Of course, Jean Francois's maneuver was a perfectly executed technique by a veteran defender. Still, Tomlinson needs to work on playing with good balance and body control in tight spaces. What he needs to work on: Tomlinson has been impressive as a first-year pro throughout the preseason. He has been a rock-solid run blocker and pretty effective in pass protection. Against the Jaguars in Week 3, Tomlinson needs to show better body control battling defenders at the point of attack in pass protection. If he can continue to make strides in that area, Jim Caldwell will feel better about inserting him into the lineup as an interior protector for Matthew Stafford.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000515873/article/nfc-preseason-player-grades-week-2-jameis-winston-steps-up
NFL Prediction: Lions among 4 teams that won't return to playoffs (4. Detroit Lions: Don't underestimate how much the loss of Ndamukong Suh will impact the Lions' fortunes in 2015. Last season, with Suh leading the way, the Lions surrendered an NFL-low 69 rushing yards per game. They finished second in total defense, eighth in sacks, tied-third in interceptions, and third in points per game. Suh led the way by being on the field for 909 snaps last season. And there's no doubt he made the players around him better. For example, take C.J. Mosley, who followed Suh to Miami this offseason. According to ESPN, when Suh and Mosley shared playing time over the past two seasons, "the Lions pressured opposing quarterbacks on 29 percent of dropbacks, including 18 sacks on 290 dropbacks (6.2 percent)." When Mosley was on the field but Suh wasn't, the Lions pressured opposing quarterback on just 20 percent of dropbacks and recorded just one sack in 163 dropbacks (0.6 percent). That's one way to measure Suh's impact on the game. In addition to Suh and Mosley, Nick Fairley is also long gone, having left for the Rams via free agency. Fairly was injured for a big chunk of last season, but in 2012 and 2013, he recorded 11.5 sacks. He will be missed. To replace Suh, the Lions brought in Haloti Ngata, formerly of the Ravens for nine seasons. Ngata has 25.5 sacks in his career and, more importantly, he's a force in the run game. But he's not the force that Suh is, not at this stage in his career. Furthermore, Ngata can't replace all of the bodies that the Lions lost on the defensive line. In addition to Suh, Fairley and Mosley, George Johnson also departed Detroit. According to Robert Mays of Grantland, the Lions are tasked with replacing nearly 1,500 snaps on their defensive line. And that's not including Suh's 909 snaps. Ngata can't do that by himself. There's also this alarming nugget: Ngata hasn't practiced since training camp started, as he's dealing with a bad hamstring. The Lions need Ngata to perform at his peak if they want to replicate last season's success. But that's probably not happening. As for the offense, Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate form one of the more impressive wide receiver duos in the league, Matthew Stafford is an above-average quarterback who the Lions don't need to worry about, and there's some rumblings that rookie running back Ameer Abdullah is going to break out. Here's why I'm concerned about the Lions offense: Last season, they weren't forced to score points at a high clip because of their stout defense. But if the defense takes a step back, which it probably will, that'll force the offense to produce more efficiently than it did last season. In 2014, Detroit finished 19th in yards per game and 22nd in points per game. Those rankings will need to jump in 2015. As for the division that the Lions find themselves in, the Packers still own the NFC North, even with Jordy Nelson sidelined for the season. The Vikings are emerging as one of the most promising, younger teams in the league, and the Bears won't be the joke that they were last season, now that they have an actual, functional coaching staff in place. Four of the Lions wins last season came against the Bears and the Vikings. It's tough to see them replicating that. And, finally, the Lions' Pythagorean win total was 9.2. They won 11 games. Alarm bells should be ringing.): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25279766/nfl-prediction-cards-bengals-are-2-of-4-teams-that-wont-return-to-playoffs
Tales From the Training Room: An NFL Injury Roundup (Detroit Lions: Our run of healthy teams ends in the Motor City, as the Lions have serious concerns on each side of the line of scrimmage. Already thinner after losing Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley, the Lions are still waiting to see star acquisition Haloti Ngata on the field. A lingering hamstring injury has kept Ngata out for the entirety of the preseason, and while that wouldn’t be quite as big of a deal in more familiar surroundings, the Lions desperately need Ngata to be healthy and effective in 2015. They’re also having concerns across from Ngata. Guard Larry Warford suffered a high ankle sprain on Thursday night, an injury that tends to be a three-to-five-week problem. Offensive linemen play through it more regularly than skill-position players, but even if Warford plays, it should limit his effectiveness. And starting halfback Joique Bell, already in danger of losing his job to promising second-rounder Ameer Abdullah, hasn’t practiced after undergoing offseason knee surgery.): http://grantland.com/the-triangle/tales-from-the-training-room-an-nfl-injury-roundup/
Local Media:
O'hara: Running Back By Committee For Lions: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Running-back-by-committee-for-Lions/85ba6d26-2357-45ec-9905-d40b723a26a7
10 takeaways from Austin & Lombardi: http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/10-takeaways-from-Austin--Lombardi/a97c2eb8-de1b-43c6-8ee3-7698a6173a39
Lions practice update: Ngata works on the side: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/haloti-ngata-detroit-lions/32343019/
Lions' Van Noy looking at another lost season: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/kyle-van-noy-detroit-lions/32335045/
Lions in no rush to play Calvin Johnson in preseason: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions/32333701/
Lombardi: Lions QB Stafford knows system, shows leadership: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-matthew-stafford-leadership/32376361/
Lions' Tate offers Quin support on 'God' comment: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/glover-quin-jordy-nelson-god/32341683/
DeAndre Levy a surprise absence at Lions practice: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/deandre-levy-a-surprise-absence-at-lions-practice/32345037/
Wojo: Injured Ngata plays waiting game: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/wojo-lions-ngata-plays-waiting-game/32367919/
Lions' 'Dump Truck' Winn doesn't mind the dirty work: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/lions-dump-truck-george-winn-doesnt-mind--dirty-work/32321485/
Lions' Quin disappointed God comments taken: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/lions-quin-disappointed-god-comments-taken-out-of-context/32336077/
Calvin Johnson wants to play; Caldwell undecided: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/calvin-johnson-wants--play-caldwell-undecided/32338527/
Injured Van Noy not returning to Lions anytime soon: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/injured-kyle-van-noy-not-returning-to-lions-anytime-soon/32337367/
Detroit Lions swing another trade, ship Michael Williams to Patriots: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_swing_another_tr.html
Detroit Lions say DE Larry Webster must step up and quickly: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_say_larry_webste.html
A day later, Lions' Glover Quin doesn't back off his thoughts on God and Jordy Nelson: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_glover_quin_offers_no_ap.html
Detroit Lions notes — Kyle Van Noy defended by Teryl Austin: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150825/detroit-lions-notes-x2014-kyle-van-noy-defended-by-teryl-austin
Detroit Lions — Five reasons why running back by committee works: http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150825/detroit-lions-x2014-five-reasons-why-running-back-by-committee-works
Lions' Matthew Stafford Trying To Make Jump Between 'Good' And 'Great': http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/08/25/matthew-stafford-lions-trying-to-make-jump-between-good-and-great/
Teryl Austin, Joe Lombardi quotes from Monday: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/25/9208627/lions-quotes-from-teryl-austin-and-joe-lombardi
Lions notes: Tuesday practice, injury update: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/25/9207447/lions-notes-tuesday-practice-injury-updates-ngata-ebron
Lions notes: Rob Sims retires: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/25/9204289/lions-notes-rob-sims-announces-retirement
Video:
Local Media:
Caldwell on position battles: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Caldwell-on-position-battles/d68fd746-d685-429e-9a86-91c328f6d0bc
Austin on the defense's performance in preseason: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Austin-on-the-defenses-performance-in-preseason/2c3fc783-9807-4372-b281-74a7648a4ba0
Lombardi on the offense's progression: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Lombardi-on-the-offenses-progression/c0a2770f-3251-47cd-b0d7-05e8da90f26d
Abdullah on adjusting to the NFL game: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Abdullah-on-adjusting-to-the-NFL-game/c78a449c-043a-4113-a2f2-ca85922ff05d
Tate on his comfort with the offense: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tate-on-his-comfort-with-the-offense/04f4703a-a270-4704-bdca-791358ec4eff
Tomlinson on getting more reps: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tomlinson-on-getting-more-reps/211630bb-6ddf-4b94-bf48-f5ea371b6de8
Tapp on Ngata: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-Ngata/d753c445-1d36-4486-b552-3f8bba7287c0
Quin on his comments about Jordy Nelson's injury: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Quin-on-his-comments-about-Jordy-Nelsons-injury/51c9a0b5-f705-4d8a-9219-2f6a835d7cdd
Wide receiver competition not letting up: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Wide-receiver-competition-not-letting-up/cf2002b8-bd51-459f-950a-cd09175a3933
To play or not to play Calvin Johnson?: http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/32343051/
Rod Beard and Josh Katzenstein on Kyle Van Noy: http://www.detroitnews.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/25/32354187/
Watch Detroit Lions reporters discuss the impact of Kyle Van Noy's latest injury: http://videos.mlive.com/mlive/2015/08/watch_detroit_lions_reporters_23.html
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