Lions Blog: September 2018

Sunday, September 30, 2018

Evening Lions Links for Sunday 9-30-18 Part 2

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: Lang leaves game with concussion: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-lang-leaves-game-with-concussion

Jarrad Davis' pass coverage cost the Lions a possible win in Dallas': https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/jarrad_davis_pass_coverage_cos.html

Lions fans really really hate Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott: https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/lions_fans_really_really_hate.html

Dallas saw perfect matchup from Lions on key play: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/30/dallas-cowboys-detroit-lions/1483046002/

Lions' defense poor vs. Dallas. Time for change?: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/30/detroit-lions-change-defense/1481272002/

'Dynamic' Elliott, Cowboys saddle Lions with last-second loss: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/30/heartbreaker-detroit-lions-rally-but-ezekiel-elliott-powered-dallas-cowboys-win-last-play-field-goal/1479066002/

Five reasons the Detroit Lions lost to the Dallas Cowboys: https://lionslowdown.com/2018/09/30/five-reasons-the-detroit-lions-lost-to-the-dallas-cowboys/

Week 4 Player Of The Game: Golden Tate: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/30/week-4-player-of-the-game-golden-tate/

Lions Week 4: By the numbers: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/30/lions-week-4-by-the-numbers/

Hunt Report: Lions still lack horses to win on defense: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-defense-still-lacks-horses-to-win-in-2018-122732483/

Lions fans erupt about blown calls in Dallas: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/ContentGallery/Lions-blown-calls-fans-erupt-at-referees-122735975/

Golden Tate thinks he's got to fix his showboating: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Golden-Tate-celebration-Lions-wideout-showboating-122733819/

Colin Cowherd hates on Lions Color Rush jersey: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-Color-Rush-jersey-Colin-Cowherd-tweets-his-dislike-122737850/

Refocused, NFL Week 4: Dallas Cowboys 26, Detroit Lions 24: https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-refocused-nfl-week-4-dallas-cowboys-26-detroit-lions-24

What we learned from Sunday's Week 4 contests (1. Ezekiel Elliott hauled in a gorgeous over-the-shoulder catch for 34 yards to set up Brett Maher's game-winning field goal as time expired. With apologies to pocket-crashing pass rusher Demarcus Lawrence's three sacks, Elliott was the best player on the field, leading Dallas in rushing (152 yards on 25 carries) and receiving (88 yards and a touchdown on four receptions). This was arguably the finest performance ever produced by the All-Pro running back, who leads the NFL in rushing yards (3,040) and 100-yard rushing games (14) since entering the league as the No. 4 overall pick in 2016. The bar is so low for Dak Prescott's attack that this also stands as the quarterback's finest outing of the season, leading the Cowboys to their most points (26) and passing yards (255) since early December of last year. 2. For all of the chatter about the Lions finding their long-lost ground attack last week, their porous run defense has garnered nary a mention. Coach Matt Patricia gathered his troops at halftime to emphasize that their performance was unacceptable on defense. It's worth nothing that Elliott's 38-yard touchdown via screen pass came one play after Romeo Okwara lost a sack to an unnecessary roughness penalty on a confusing play in which no whistle appeared to blow the play dead. In need of a stop after Golden Tate's 38-yard touchdown gave Detroit a one-point lead with two minutes remaining, second-year linebacker Jarrad Davis was beaten by Elliott for the downfield strike that led to the Lions' loss. 3. One of the NFL's most dangerous run-after-catch threats, Tate had his way with a Dallas secondary that has shown a disturbing penchant for surrendering big plays over the past two weeks. After embarrassing Jourdan Lewis and Jeff Heath on a 45-yard score, Tate gave the Lions a momentary 24-23 lead with a 38-yard touchdown against an overmatched Anthony Brown. As well as Byron Jones has played in his conversion from safety to No. 1 corner, the rest of Dallas' secondary is hit-or-miss on a weekly basis.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000968150/article/what-we-learned-so-far-from-sundays-week-4-games

Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott lead Cowboys to last-second win: https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/09/30/dak-prescott-ezekiel-elliott-lead-cowboys-to-last-second-win/

Ezekiel Elliott over 100 yards rushing as Cowboys lead 20-10: https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/09/30/ezekiel-elliott-over-100-yards-rushing-as-cowboys-lead-20-10/

Cowboys lead Lions 13-10 at intermission: https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/09/30/cowboys-lead-lions-13-10-at-intermission/

Golden Tate scores on 45-yard reception, giving Lions 7-3 lead: https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/09/30/golden-tate-scores-on-45-yard-pass-giving-lions-7-3-lead/

T.J. Lang leaves with concussion as Cowboys lead 3-0: https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/09/30/t-j-lang-out-with-a-concussion-as-cowboys-take-3-0-lead/

Grades:

Lions-Cowboys grades: Low marks across the board defensively: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/30/detroit-lions-dallas-cowboys/1481935002/

Justin Rogers' Lions grades: Offense sparkles, defense falters: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/30/justin-rogers-detroit-lions-grades-offense-sparkles-defense-falters/1481891002/

CBS Week 4 Grades (Detroit Lions: B-: It's not easy to make the Cowboys offense look good, but that's exactly what the Lions did in this game, especially in the fourth quarter. The Lions gave up two long scoring drives in the game's final quarter, which probably had to do with the fact that their defense was on the field for 10:48 of the fourth quarter. The defense looked worn out and it showed as the couldn't generate a pass rush late in the game and they couldn't stop Ezekiel Elliott.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-4-grades-resurgent-patriots-get-an-a-rest-of-the-afc-east-fails-miserably/

Video:

Lions vs. Cowboys highlights | Week 4: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000968303/Lions-vs-Cowboys-highlights-Week-4

Patricia on team performance: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/patricia-on-team-performance-x4830

Stafford on loss to Cowboys: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/stafford-on-loss-to-cowboys

Tate on performance against Dallas: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/tate-on-performance-against-dallas

Quin on loss to Cowboys: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/quin-on-loss-to-cowboys

Lawson on loss: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/lawson-on-loss

Week 4 Lions Live Postgame Show: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/week-4-lions-live-postgame-show

Articles from Opposing Teams Media:

Dak Prescott vs. an old teammate is just one of the key Cowboys-Lions matchups: https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-cowboys/cowboys/2018/09/29/three-key-matchups-watch-cowboys-lions

Five keys for Dallas Cowboys to take down Detroit on Sunday: https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/five-keys-for-dallas-cowboys-to-take-down-detroit-on-sunday/287-599359570

Saturday, September 29, 2018

Afternoon Lions Links for Saturday 9-29-18

Articles:

Ask Kyle: On Bob Quinn, Ezekiel Ansah and the best road trips in the NFL: https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/ask_kyle_detroit_lions_40.html

Lions vs. Cowboys: Players to watch, key matchups, prediction: https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/09/c6b90e4f043046/lions-vs-cowboys-players-to-wa.html

Lions RB Johnson isn't looking for more carries: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/29/detroit-lions-kerryon-johnson/1459326002/

Rookie Da'Shawn Hand's 1st tattoo: A lion: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/29/detroit-lions-dashawn-hand/1441202002/

In XBox and on field, Kerryon Johnson is going to try to beat you: http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/34427/in-xbox-and-on-field-kerryon-johnson-is-going-to-try-to-beat-you

Video:

Opposing View: Cowboys: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/opposing-view-cowboys

Week 4 Picks

NFL.com Harrison (Lions 23 Cowboys 17:  Picking the Lions to win. While I trust the Cowboys' defense ... for some reason, Dallas has never played well against Detroit. There was a thriller at the Silverdome in 1981, when Eddie Murray delivered a game-winner at the gun for the underdog Lions. Or the 1991 playoff matchup, when Barry Sanders made Ken Norton (now the Seahawks' DC) do a 180 on a spectacular touchdown run. Or the time the Cowboys blew a huge second-half lead in 2011, highlighted by a Bobby Carpenter pick-six (ooh, now that is insulting). What about the Calvin Johnson 300-yard game in 2013? Sure, Tony Romo and the Cowboys bested Detroit in the 2014 playoffs. But unlike Dallas' current QB, Romo could throw for 200 yards in a game, so it's not a fair comparison. Matthew Stafford can also hit that mark -- and will. Lions win.):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000967039/article/nfl-week-4-game-picks-pats-over-dolphins-browns-win-again

Game Theory: Week 4 win probabilities, score predictions (Lions are picked to win 24-21): http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000967055/Game-Theory-Week-4-win-probabilities-score-predictions

CBS Wilson's Picks (Detroit at Dallas: A week ago, the Lions looked more likely to win the No. 1 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft than win a football game. And then they went out and embarrassed the Patriots on national television. Detroit may have finally found a running game with rookie Kerryon Johnson and veteran LeGarrette Blount, and Kenny Golladay may be the best wide receiver no one is talking about. The Cowboys, meanwhile, have limped through the first three weeks of the season, beating a bad Giants team in Week 2 before looking completely lost against the Seahawks last Sunday. The offense is in shambles. Dak Prescott more resembles a replacement-level backup than franchise talent in line for a huge payday; the offensive line hasn't been good, and viable receiving options have yet to reveal themselves. So yeah. Pick: Lions 35, Cowboys 14):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-4-odds-picks-baker-mayfield-wins-in-first-nfl-start-titans-beat-eagles-lions-destroy-cowboys/

SN's Week 4 Picks (Detroit Lions (1-2) at Dallas Cowboys (1-2): It’s hard to trust any NFL team from week-to-week, and the Lions are living proof. Are they the team that got embarrassed on the biggest of stages by the Jets … or the one that sowed seeds of doubt into the Patriots two weeks later … or the one that woke up nearly in time in San Francisco after sleepwalking through three quarters? The Cowboys, though, are proving to be what we thought they were: an offense with one threat, Ezekiel Elliott, who hasn’t been enough. Prediction: Lions, 16-14): http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/week-4-nfl-picks-predictions-browns-raiders-ravens-steelers-saints-giants/kr10goge5vzq1vp7zn6al2bct

NFL RealGM (Detroit Lions at Dallas Cowboys (-3): Expect some sacks. Detroit and Dallas rank 2nd and 3rd in sack percentage through three games, a stat which likely surprises casual fans of both teams, let alone the general NFL fan. The difference in the game, and the reason why I like the Lions to pull off the road upset, is the offensive line discrepancy. Believe it or not, Detroit’s has been significantly better at protecting Matthew Stafford than Dallas’ vaunted line has at keeping Dak Prescott upright. Stafford is the least-sacked QB in the league per dropback; he goes down on just 2 percent of his dropbacks. Prescott is in the bottom five for sack percentage, going down on over 10 percent of his pass sets. Lions 33, Cowboys 31):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3071/Football-Meteorology-NFL-Picks-For-Week-4

Detroit News predictions: Lions vs. Cowboys (Lions, 23-20; Cowboys, 20-13; Lions, 24-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/28/detroit-news-predictions-detroit-lions-vs-dallas-cowboys/1447205002/

Freep Picks (Lions 23, Cowboys 17; Lions 20, Cowboys 16; Cowboys 16, Lions 13; Cowboys 21, Lions 17): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/29/lions-cowboys-predictions/1460098002/

CBS Breech's Picks (Cowboys 20-17): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-4-picks-rams-steamroll-vikings-steelers-win-afc-north-shootout-over-ravens/

CBS Prisco's Picks (The Lions are coming off an impressive showing against the Patriots last Sunday night, a game they hope to build on going forward. But this is a tough spot on the road against a Cowboys defense that can get after the quarterback. Look for that defense to get after Matt Stafford. Cowboys take it at home. Pick: Cowboys 23, Lions 18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/pete-priscos-nfl-week-4-picks-vikings-rams-a-nail-biter-broncos-upset-chiefs-juggernaut/

PFT’S WEEK FOUR PICKS (Lions at Cowboys: MDS’s take: Are the real Lions the team that got blown out by the Jets, or the team that dominated the Patriots? I’m betting on the former. MDS’s pick: Cowboys 24, Lions 17. Florio’s take: It’s destined to be an up-and-down year for Dallas, and they’re due to put enough together defensively to end up doing just enough offensively to win. Florio’s pick: Cowboys 17, Lions 13.): https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/09/27/pfts-week-four-picks-9/

The MMQB Week 4 Picks (6 pick the Lions to win, 1 picks the Cowboys to win): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/expert-game-picks-football-sports-illustrated-mmqb-staff

Pro Football Weekly's Week 4 predictions (2 pick the Lions; 2 pick the Cowboys): https://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/09/28/pro-football-weeklys-week-4-predictions/a6bg2tw/

ESPN Picks (7 pick the Cowboys to win, 4 pick the Lions): http://www.espn.com/nfl/picks

CBS Expert picks (5 pick the Cowboys, 3 pick the Lions): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/features/writers/expert/picks/straight-up/4

USA Today Picks (4 pick the Cowboys to win, 1 picks the Lions): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2018/09/27/usa-today-week-4-nfl-picks-steelers-ravens-afc-north/1443008002/

Average Prediction (329-311/16): Lions win 21-19. 25 experts pick the Cowboys, 23 experts pick the Lions to win.

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 9-29-18

Articles:

How Lions RBs fared after rushing for 100 yards:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/28/detroit-lions-kerryon-johnson/1462077002/

To beat Cowboys, Lions must solve biggest weakness: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/28/beat-cowboys-lions-must-solve-biggest-weakness/1458680002/

Lions still working out kinks on special teams:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/28/lions-still-working-out-kinks-special-teams-strategy/1460151002/

3 things to watch for in Detroit Lions-Dallas Cowboys game: https://www.clickondetroit.com/sports/3-things-to-watch-for-in-detroit-lions-dallas-cowboys-game

NFL Week 4: Preview and Analysis for Each Sunday Game (LIONS AT COWBOYS: Thanks to Sean Lee’s ailing hamstring, Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch is making his first NFL start. One thing the first-round rookie must be prepared for are “counter” runs out of shotgun from Lions rookie tailback Kerryon Johnson. Those runs tend to keep Johnson on his original side in the formation. In other words, if he’s aligned left of the QB, the run will go left. It’s a subtly unusual look that a linebacker, paradoxically, must diagnose both quickly and patiently.): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/09/28/nfl-week-4-preview-analysis-news

Early NFL Draft regrets: Seahawks picked wrong RB; Cowboys missed their WR (This article mentions that Kerryon Johnson looks to be a better pick than 1st rounder Penny. Also discusses other players the Lions were interested in.): http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2018-regrets-bad-picks-grades-cowboys-calvin-ridley-seahawks-steelers/y3nqtod8cx4h180ds389eh9hm

Articles from Opposing Teams Media:

Final Thoughts: New Challenges For The Defense: https://www.dallascowboys.com/news/final-thoughts-new-challenges-for-the-defense

Gut Feeling: Predictions For Cowboys-Lions: https://www.dallascowboys.com/news/gut-feeling-predictions-for-cowboys-lions

Three key matchups to watch between the Cowboys and Lions: https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-cowboys/cowboys/2018/09/28/three-key-matchups-watch-cowboys-lions

Dallas Cowboys vs. Detroit Lions preview:  https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/nfl/dallas-cowboys/article219165290.html

NFL Draft Prospects:

Five possible Lions draft prospects: Week 5:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/28/five-possible-lions-draft-prospects-week-5/1448997002/

Scout's Eye: Top NFL Prospects to Watch in Week 5: https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-top-nfl-prospects-to-watch-in-week-5-zCGKvpEfcUuKhH3mGo08mA/

Video:

Lions Lowdown: On to Dallas: https://www.detroitnews.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/28/lions-lowdown-wojo-rogers-talk-upcoming-game-against-dallas/1457955002/

Friday, September 28, 2018

Afternoon Lions Links for Friday 9-28-18

Talkin' with T.J.: Luke Willson: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/talkin-with-t-j-luke-willson

Coach's Scouting Report: Week 4: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/coach-s-scouting-report-week-4

Morning Lions Links for Friday 9-28-18

Articles:

Lions say Frank Ragnow suffered knee injury: https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/lions_say_frank_ragnow_suffere.html

T.J. Lang impressed by Kerryon Johnson's skill set after 100-yard performance: https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/tj_lang_impressed_by_kerryon_j.html

Lions haven't had issues with new 'body weight on the quarterback' rule -- yet:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/lions_dont_have_issues_with_th.html

How Lions' Matthew Stafford has become the NFL's least sacked QB:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/28/detroit-lions-matthew-stafford/1449215002/

Lang on Dallas D: Full of 'Studs,' 'playmakers': https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/27/detroit-lions-tj-lang-cowboys-defense/1449020002/

Examining Jarrad Davis and Lions LB coverage stats from Week 3:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/28/examining-jarrad-davis-and-lions-lb-coverage-stats-from-week-3/

Da'Shawn Hand off to a great start with Lions: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/DaShawn-Hand-Lions-rookie-off-to-a-great-start-122566722/

Breaking down the match-up: Lions vs. Cowboys: https://www.wxyz.com/sports/football/lions/breaking-down-the-match-up-lions-vs-cowboys

Week 3 NFL defensive line rankings (DEFENSIVE LINE RANKING, WEEK 3: 19th - Detroit’s defensive line has undoubtedly struggled to create pressure on the quarterback, as the unit ranks 28th in pressure percentage (6.9) through Week 3. Edge defender Ezekiel Ansah has played just 19 total snaps due to injury, and the team’s remaining edge defenders, Romeo Okwara and Devon Kennard, have failed to fill his shoes with just nine pressures between the two of them. Third-year defensive interior A’Shawn Robinson has been a bright spot with his 84.1 overall grade and 84.5 run-defense grade, but he’ll need some help from his teammates and a healthy Ansah to lead a formidable defensive front.): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-week-3-nfl-defensive-line-rankings

32 NFL Observations, Week 3 (Detroit Lions: Safety Glover Quin has lined up within eight yards of the line of scrimmage on 40.3 percent of his run defense snaps so far this year. On those snaps, he’s produced four tackles, all of them being defensive stops, and currently ranks first among safeties with a run stop percentage of 14.8 percent.): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-32-nfl-observations-week-3

NFL Week 4 FOX Detroit Lions at Dallas Cowboys Preview: https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-nfl-week-4-fox-detroit-lions-dallas-cowboys-preview

Lions, Cowboys take different vibes into battle of 1-2 teams:  http://www.fox2detroit.com/sports/lions-cowboys-take-different-vibes-into-battle-of-1-2-teams

Articles from Opposing Teams Media:

Cowboys could face trouble with the Lions newfound rushing attack: https://cowboyswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/27/dallas-cowboys-vs-detroit-lions-rushing-game-legarrette-blount-theo-riddick-kerryon-johnson/

Video:

Watch: Previewing Lions vs. Cowboys showdown: https://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/28/detroit-lions-vs-dallas-cowboys-previewing-and-predicting-week-4-showdown/1450071002/

Reggie Bush shouts out Kerryon Johnson for carrying the 100-yard rushing mark torch: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000967162/Reggie-Bush-shouts-out-Kerryon-Johnson-for-carrying-the-100-yard-rushing-mark-torch

Thursday, September 27, 2018

Afternoon Lions Links for Thursday 9-27-18

Articles:

Lions at Cowboys practice report: Sept. 27: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-at-cowboys-practice-report-sept-27

NOTEBOOK: Offensive line hoping to build off strong performance: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-offensive-line-hoping-to-build-off-strong-performance

NFC NORTH: The good and the bad for all four teams:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfc-north-the-good-and-the-bad-for-all-four-teams

O’HARA’S SCOUTING REPORT: Dallas Cowboys:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-scouting-report-dallas-cowboys

Lions' Ameer Abdullah doesn't let demotion get him down:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/27/detroit-lions-ameer-abdullah-kerryon-johnson/1441485002/

Detroit Lions mailbag: Frank Ragnow's rise, Teez Tabor's tumble: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/27/detroit-lions-mailbag-frank-ragnow-rise-teez-tabor-tumble/1439924002/

Detroit Lions must corral these 2 Dallas Cowboys to win: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/27/detroit-lions-dallas-cowboys-matchup/1444831002/

Jamie: Body weight rule is NFL's latest gaffe:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/27/nfl-body-weight-rule/1437831002/

Still no return in sight for injured Lions DE Ezekiel Ansah: https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/still_no_return_in_sight_for_i.html

Lions RB Kerryon Johnson is gaining a ton of yardage after contact:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/kerryon_johnson_detroit_lions.html

Lions 'D' ranks first vs. the pass and last vs. the run as Ezekiel Elliott looms:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/lions_d_ranks_first_vs_the_pas.html

Cowboys run game presents formidable foe for Lions last-ranked rush defense:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/27/cowboys-run-game-presents-formidable-foe-for-lions-last-ranked-run-defense/

Breaking down Dallas vs. Detroit with Cowboys Wire: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/27/breaking-down-dallas-vs-detroit-with-cowboys-wire/

Kerryon Johnson wants Lions run game consistent: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Kerryon-Johnson-Lions-running-game-needs-consistency-122562912/

Lions offensive line gets high marks for dominating Patriots: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-offensive-line-high-marks-dominating-Patriots-122549418/

Lions-Cowboys Capsule: https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/lions-cowboys-capsule-092718

The small change Matthew Stafford made hoping for more success: http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/34421/the-small-change-matthew-stafford-made-hoping-for-more-success

Articles from Opposing Teams Media:

Flip Side: Crawford Draws Big Rookie Matchup:  https://www.dallascowboys.com/news/flip-side-what-to-know-about-2018-lions

Here's where Cowboys have biggest advantages Sunday vs Lions:  https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-cowboys/cowboys/2018/09/27/cowboys-biggest-advantage-sunday-vsdetroit?tab=conversation

Cowboys must move on to Week 4 matchup at home against Detroit: https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/cowboys-must-move-on-to-week-4-matchup-at-home-against-detroit/287-598855372

Video:

Stafford on importance of run game: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/stafford-on-importance-of-run-game

Lang on Cowboys defense: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/lang-on-cowboys-defense

X's and O's with Dan Orlovsky: Week 4:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/x-s-o-s-with-dan-orlovsky-week-4

Plenty of positive to build off of heading to Dallas: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/plenty-of-positive-to-build-off-of-heading-to-dallas

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 9-27-18

Articles:

Lions vs. Cowboys Week 4 preview | NFL Playbook: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000966940/Lions-vs-Cowboys-Week-4-preview-NFL-Playbook

Wednesday, September 26, 2018

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 9-26-18

Articles:

STATS PACK: Lions' wide receiver trio getting it done:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/stats-pack-lions-wide-receiver-trio-getting-it-done

Detroit Lions' Matt Patricia took the heat, now he deserves the credit:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/26/detroit-lions-matt-patricia/1424857002/

Film review: Examining Lions' red-zone woes: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/detroit-lions-new-england-patriots-film-review-red-zone/1425961002/

Lions film review: 5 observations vs. Patriots: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/detroit-lions-film-review-5-observations-vs-patriots/1425452002/

It took a village to snap Lions' 100-yard rushing drought: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/took-village-snap-detroit-lions-kerryon-johnson-100-yard-rushing-drought/1424557002/

Lions' Diggs surprises 7-year-old with toy Polaris Slingshot: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/detroit-lions-quandre-diggs-surprises-7-year-old-replacement-stolen-toy-polaris-slingshot/1419652002/

What Patriots and Brady fans are saying after beat down by Lions:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/what_patriots_and_brady_fans_a.html

Jim Bob Cooter loved seeing 'five guys playing together' on OL in win over Patriots: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/25/jim-bob-cooter-loved-seeing-five-guys-playing-together-on-ol-in-win-over-patriots/

5 takeaways from the Lions convincing Week 3 win over the Patriots: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/25/5-takeaways-from-the-lions-win-patriots/

Vegas watch: Lions still 3-point underdogs at Dallas even after beating Patriots: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/25/vegas-watch-lions-still-3-point-underdogs-at-dallas-even-after-beating-patriots/

Golden Tate wants Lions hungry after win: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Golden-Tate-Lions-need-hunger-after-win-122499258/

The emergence of RB Kerryon Johnson: https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-the-emergence-of-rb-kerryon-johnson

Lions' Frank Ragnow shakes off rough start, shines bright in Week 3: https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-lions-frank-ragnow-shakes-off-rough-start-shines-in-week-3

Hall of Fame RB Barry Sanders enjoying new role with Lions: https://sports.yahoo.com/hall-fame-rb-barry-sanders-enjoying-role-lions-232905769--nfl.html

Video:

Sights and Sounds: Week 3 vs New England:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/sights-and-sounds-week-3-vs-new-england

Top 5 Rookie Performances Week 3 (5 is Kerryon Johnson): http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000966706/Top-5-Rookie-Performances-Week-3

7 things that made Week 3 AWESOME (The 5th one is the Lions beating the Patriots): http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000966537/7-things-that-made-Week-3-AWESOME

Best sound bites from the NFL in Week 3 (Lions stuff at around the 2:30 Mark):  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000966647/Best-sound-bites-from-the-NFL-in-Week-3

Tuesday, September 25, 2018

Week 4 Power Rankings

CBS Power Rankings (17. Detroit Lions: That was an impressive defensive showing against the Patriots. Can they duplicate it against a struggling Cowboys team this week?): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-4-power-rankings-rams-chiefs-take-top-spots-thanks-to-high-octane-offenses/

NFL.com Power Rankings (21. Lions: The Lions turned on the power boosters in the fourth quarter of their Week 2 loss in San Francisco, and it spilled over into Sunday night. Over the past five quarters, Detroit has outscored the opposition 40-13, moving the ball with ease -- this after looking completely dysfunctional for the first seven quarters of the season. As of late, the Lions are getting the ball into Golden Tate's hands, so as to set up easy second or third downs. OC Jim Bob Cooter is also firing up the running game in the Motor City, as the Lions enjoyed their first individual 100-yard rushing performance in years (a factoid the broadcast mentioned 85 times, but not 86). Kerryon Johnson carried on past the 100-yard mark, making him the first Lion to do so since Billy Sims in 1982. OK, it hadn't been that long.):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000966398/article/nfl-power-rankings-week-4-rams-chiefs-rise-above-chaos

Freep Power Rankings (22. Lions (1-2) | Last game: Defeated the Patriots, 26-10 | Previous ranking: 30 | The buzz: Sunday’s win against the Patriots was one of the best games by the Lions I’ve ever seen.): https://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/nfl-power-rankings-where-detroit-lions-after-upset-win/1420536002/

PFT Power Rankings (22. Lions (1-2; No. 29): There’s nothing like a win over the Patriots to get players to fully buy in to The Patriot Way.): https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/09/25/week-four-power-rankings-8/

SI Power Rankings (22. Detroit Lions):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/09/25/nfl-power-rankings-2018

USA Today's Power Rankings (23. Lions (30): On pace to finish middling 16th league-wide in rushing ... yes, it would be their best rank since Barry Sanders' final year in 1998.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2018/09/25/week-4-nfl-power-rankings-rams-chiefs-statistical-projections/1407622002/

AP Pro32 (23. Detroit Lions): https://www.pro32.ap.org/poll

NFL RealGM Power Rankings (23. Detroit Lions): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3069/NFL-Team-Rankings-Week-3

ESPN Power Rankings (25. Detroit Lions: The Lions have an unbalanced defense. They ranked 31st in rushing yards allowed per game (149.3) and last in yards per rush (5.4) but have the best pass defense in the league (152.0 yards per game). -- Clawson):  http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/24785984/nfl-power-rankings-fatal-flaws-all-32-teams-2018-week-4

Yahoo Power Rankings (25. Detroit Lions (1-2, LW: 29): Only 13 days passed between the Lions getting blown out by the Jets on the opening Monday night, and them pounding the Patriots on Sunday. We’re reminded over and over and over: Don’t ever think you have the NFL figured out because it will change without warning.):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-power-rankings-annual-end-patriots-question-043907531.html

SN Power Rankings (26. Detroit Lions 1-2 (last week: 29): The Lions suddenly found a defense and a running game at an opportune time against the Patriots. The bad vibes from the first two weeks are quickly fading.):  http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-power-rankings-week-4-saints-panthers-packers-patriots/1g5xeop2mibss176t2or2x95lm

PFW Power Rankings (27. Lions (1-2) — The type of team we expected out of Patricia showed up Sunday): https://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/09/25/6cc8eab74abb461a8bd7224f3bf74c45/index.xml

Average Power Ranking (276/12): 23

Afternoon Lions Links for Tuesday 9-25-18

Articles:

10 takeaways from Cooter & Pasqualoni:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-takeaways-from-cooter-pasqualoni-x5505

The Lions offensive line dominated New England, led by a resurgent Frank Ragnow: https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/offensive_line_really_comes_to.html

Matt Patricia doesn't sleep much, especially after losses:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/matt_patricia_doesnt_sleep_muc.html

Lions figured out run game. Will it continue?:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/detroit-lions-running-game/1418363002/

'Body weight' rule changing NFL as we know it: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/nfl-body-weight-rule/1420991002/

Cowboys' Sean Lee likely to miss another showdown with Lions' Matthew Stafford:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/cowboys-sean-lee-likely-miss-another-showdown-lions-l

Lions avoiding flags under tougher roughing-the-passer rules: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/lions-avoiding-flags-under-tougher-roughing-passer-rules/1423018002/

Detroit Lions’ offensive line plays best game in win over Patriots:  https://lionslowdown.com/2018/09/25/detroit-lions-offensive-line-plays-best-game-in-win-over-patriots/

Who was that?!? Unheralded ballers who shined in Week 3 (Eli Harold, LB, Detroit Lions (Two sacks in 26-10 win over Patriots): Why it matters: The San Francisco 49ers essentially gave up on Harold -- trading him for a 2020 conditional seventh-round pick last month -- and the trade was hard on him. He opened up about mental health struggles. He's balled out since he got to Detroit, adding a much-needed pass rush in the form of three sacks in his last two games.):  http://www.espn.com/blog/miami-dolphins/post/_/id/27692/who-was-that-unheralded-ballers-who-shined-in-week-3

5 takeaways from the Lions convincing Week 3 win over the Patriots:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/25/5-takeaways-from-the-lions-win-patriots/

Matt Patricia trying to maintain normal routine despite Lions odd schedule:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/25/matt-patricia-trying-to-maintain-normal-routine-despite-lions-odd-schedule/

Lions reportedly work out linebacker Brandon Spikes:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Brandon-Spikes-Lions-work-out-linebacker-122489177/

Fix a flaw: Five Week 3 mistakes Lions must correct:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-flaws-fixes-for-Week-3-mistakes-122479636/

Kenny Golladay becoming focal point of Lions offense:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Kenny-Golladay-Lions-wide-receiver-a-focal-point-122482863/

Cowboys open as favorites over Lions:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-Cowboys-line-open-Dallas-favored-122480954/

Columnist: Lions found 'new hope' with Patriots win: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-win-over-Patriots-gives-new-hope-for-2018-122495113/

Cowboys sign Caraun Reid, place Datone Jones on IR: https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/09/25/cowboys-sign-caraun-reid-place-datone-jones-on-ir/

Video:

Conference call: Patricia on Week 4 prep:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/conference-call-patricia-on-week-4-prep

Conference call: Pasqualoni on growth of defense:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/conference-call-pasqualoni-on-growth-of-defense

Conference call: Cooter on Lions offense:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/conference-call-cooter-on-lions-offense

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 9-25-18

Articles

FILM REVIEW: Play action sets up Jones Jr.'s 33-yard touchdown:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/film-review-play-action-sets-up-jones-jr-s-33-yard-touchdown

O’HARA: What we learned from Week 3:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-what-we-learned-from-week-3

KEY QUESTIONS: What does a win do for the team's confidence?: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/key-questions-what-does-a-win-do-for-the-team-s-confidence

Barry Sanders shouts out Kerryon Johnson for 100-yard rushing game: https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/barry_sanders_shouts_out_kerry.html

SNF on NBC ratings boosted by ... the Lions?: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/24/detroit-lions-sunday-night-football-ratings/1413718002/

Detroit Lions' rare dominating win was special and rekindles hope:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/detroit-lions-patriots/1416104002/

Lions' spirits lifted: 'It’s a sigh of relief': https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/25/detroit-lions-golden-tate/1416502002/

Lions' Francois hopes Patricia slept after win
Lions: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/24/detroit-lions-new-england-patriots/1416608002/

Lions' Golladay, Johnson: Budding superstars?: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/24/detroit-lions-kerryon-johnson-kenny-golladay/1412115002/

Lions' confidence swells after upset over Patriots:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/24/detroit-lions-confidence-swells-after-upset-over-new-england-patriots/1416649002/

What they're saying after the Lions upset of the Patriots:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/2018/09/24/what-national-media-saying-after-detroit-lions-upset-new-england-patriots/1417354002/

Snap observations: Full day's work pays off for Lions' O-line: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/24/full-days-work-pays-off-detroit-lions-offensive-line/1411140002/

NFL Team Grades - Week 3: What's Wrong With The Patriots? (Lions 26, Patriots 10 - Detroit Lions: A-, The death march has been canceled, as Matt Patricia gets a win over his old boss Belichick. The Lions found a running game, and their pride returns. New England Patriots: D+, The Pats were supposed to bounce back after their Week 2 loss to the Jaguars. Instead, they got handled by Lions, allowing struggling team to look good.): https://detroit.cbslocal.com/2018/09/24/nfl-team-grades-week-3/

Lions' postgame reaction to Matt Patricia should silence rumors of players disliking him: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/24/lions-postgame-reaction-to-matt-patricia-should-silence-rumors-of-players-disliking-him/

Jean-Francois: 'I take my hat off to every last person (fan) in the building': https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/24/jean-francois-i-take-my-hat-off-to-every-last-person-fan-in-the-building/

Eli Harold, Matt Patricia perfect fit with Lions: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Eli-Harold-Matt-Patricia-perfect-fit-with-Lions-122453485/

Lions offensive line rising to challenge this season: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-offensive-line-rising-to-challenge-this-season-122457755/

The 2018 NFL offensive scoring rankings (Lions tied with GB for 13th): https://247sports.com/nfl/tennessee-titans/ContentGallery/The-2018-NFL-offensive-scoring-rankings-121722415

Week 3 NFL Team of the Week (LEFT GUARD Frank Ragnow, Detroit Lions – 82.5: After struggling in the opening two weeks of the season, Ragnow put forth the type of performance we saw from him at Arkansas on Sunday Night Football this week. He didn’t allow a single sack, hit or hurry, giving him a 100.0 pass-blocking efficiency rating, and was impressive in the run game too.):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-week-3-nfl-team-of-the-week

NFL Week 3 Sunday Standouts: Offense (G Frank Ragnow, Detroit Lions, 82.5 Overall Grade: After a rough start to the season, the Lions first-round selection appeared to settle in against the New England Patriots. Frank Ragnow was a force in the run game, finishing a 75.5 run blocking grade. He also went 37 pass-blocking snaps without allowing a pressure after allowing 13 pressures in the first two games.):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-nfl-week-3-sunday-standouts-offense

Debrief, Week 3: New hope for Lions; Le'Veon Bell landing spots (Five new teams with hope - 1) Detroit Lions: Coach Matt Patricia and the Detroit secondary made Jimmy Garoppolo and Tom Brady look uncomfortable in successive weeks. Both of Patricia's former co-workers were forced to hold the ball far longer than desired while absorbing far too many hits. The focus after the game was understandably on Brady's lack of weapons, but Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is usually able to scheme guys like Chris Hogan open. The Patriots' running game is usually able to pick up first downs in short-yardage situations. Detroit's defense prevented both from happening, and Patricia deserves credit for doing everything possible to help the Lions avoid an 0-3 death sentence.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000966195/article/debrief-week-3-new-hope-for-lions-leveon-bell-landing-spots

The 10 Most Important Stats From Week 3 in the NFL (101: Kerryon Johnson became the 1st Detroit Lions running back to go over 100 yards in over four years when he rushed for 101 yards on 16 carries in a stunning win over the Patriots.):  https://thebiglead.com/2018/09/24/dak-prescott-pat-mahomes-deshaun-watson-calvin-ridley/4/

Kerryon Johnson didn’t let pressure of streak bother him:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/09/24/kerryon-johnson-didnt-let-pressure-of-streak-bother-him/

How the 3–0 Dolphins Are Making It Work, Rosen the Latest Rookie Starting QB, More NFL Notes (10. It’s worth taking a look at the video of how the Lions welcomed Matt Patricia into the locker room after Detroit upended the Patriots on Sunday night. I’m not saying things haven’t been rocky—in fact, I know there’s been bellyaching from players over how demanding the schedule is. But there are certainly signs that he’s reaching at least some of his players. That much was evident in how Detroit controlled the line of scrimmage against New England, which you could correlate to the physical camp that Patricia ran.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/09/24/nfl-news-notes-rumors-dolphins-albert-wilson-jakeem-grant-josh-rosen-sam-bradford-leveon-bell

Strong defensive effort carries to Lions to 1st win:  https://sports.yahoo.com/strong-defensive-effort-carries-lions-1st-win-005943640--nfl.html

Giants, Bills, Seahawks, Lions fans are breathing easier: https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/giants-bills-seahawks-lions-fans-are-breathing-easier-092418

Real Life Headline: Detroit Lions Dominate New England Patriots: https://thebiglead.com/2018/09/24/detroit-lions-new-england-patriots/

Video:

Patricia on Lions' strong performance: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/patricia-on-lions-strong-performance

Tate on win against New England: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/tate-on-win-against-new-england

Lions vs. Patriots: Top 5 plays:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/top-5-plays-vs-patriots

Tori's Take: Week 3: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/tori-s-take-week-3

3 & Out with Chris Spielman: Week 3:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/3-out-with-chris-spielman-week-3

WATCH: Miller goes one-on-one with Matthew Stafford: http://www.fox2detroit.com/sports/watch-miller-goes-one-on-one-with-matthew-stafford-2

Shannon Sharpe: ‘The most important thing the Lions did is they kept Brady on the bench': https://www.foxsports.com/watch/undisputed/video/1327753283906

Monday, September 24, 2018

Afternoon Lions Links for Monday 9-24-18

Articles:

TIM AND MIKE: Week 3 observations:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/tim-and-mike-week-3-observations

3 things we learned: Goodness, Frank Ragnow sure knows how to bounce back:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/3_things_we_learned_goodness_f.html

Snap counts: Kerryon Johnson already being used like a No. 1 running back:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/snap_counts_kerryon_johnson_us.html

Matt Patricia pulls off the rare feat of beating the mentor, Bill Belichick:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/matt_patricia_pulls_off_the_ra.html

Lions defense suffocates Tom Brady with some amazing (bleep): https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/lions_defense_suffocates_tom_b.html

Some Lions fans feel like Detroit won the Super Bowl with win over Patriots:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/09/some_lions_fans_feel_like_detr.html

Lions stock watch: These rookies are rising:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/24/detroit-lions-rookies-kerryon-johnson-frank-ragnow/1407927002/

Why Quinn deserves credit for Lions' win Sunday:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2018/09/24/detroit-lions-bob-quinn-offensive-line/1407946002/

How Lions RB Johnson ended 5 years of futility: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/24/detroit-lions-kerryon-johnson-barry-sanders/1407974002/

Lions stymie Brady? 'That (bleep) is amazing!': https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/24/detroit-lions-shut-down-tom-brady-bleep-amazing/1408624002/

Lions run game shows steady gains week to week; Matthew Stafford improves too:  https://lionslowdown.com/2018/09/24/lions-run-game-shows-steady-gains-week-to-week-matthew-stafford-improves-too/

'All gas, no brakes:' How Lions upended Patriots:  http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/34406/all-gas-no-brakes-how-lions-upended-patriots

Lions grades for Week 3 win over Patriots:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/ContentGallery/Lions-grades-Week-3-vs-Patriots-122446548/

Lions Week 3 snap counts: Kerryon Johnson earns trust:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-snap-counts-Week-3-takeaways-122439683/

Lions defense historic in throttling of Patriots:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-defense-dominates-Patriots-Tom-Brady-122449151/

Studs and Duds from Lions 26-10 romp over Patriots:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/24/studs-and-duds-from-lions-26-10-romp-over-patriots/

Lions Week 3 snap counts: 10 observations from their victory over the Patriots:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/24/lions-week-3-snap-counts-10-observations/

Lions Week 3 Player of the Game: Kerryon Johnson:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/24/lions-week-3-player-of-the-game-kerryon-johnson/

Lions' postgame reaction to Matt Patricia should silence rumors of players disliking him:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/24/lions-postgame-reaction-to-matt-patricia-should-silence-rumors-of-players-disliking-him/

Darius Slay thrilled to pick off 'the GOAT' Tom Brady:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/24/darius-slay-interception-lions-the-goat-tom-brady/

Kerryon Johnson puts end to Detroit Lions' 100-yard futility:  https://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2018/09/kerryon_johnson_puts_end_to_de.html

$.10 After NFL Week 3 ($.05-- On Sunday mornings I co-host a radio show here in Grand Rapids on ESPN 96.1. We primarily talk about the Detroit Lions, and our show had a bomb dropped on it just after we started at 10 AM. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the Lions and New England Patriots had “nearly completed” a blockbuster trade which would have sent Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski to Detroit back in draft season. Gronk threatened to retire rather than playing anywhere but New England, though Schefter’s clarification on that point came too late to spare Detroit about 45 minutes of being on the wrong end of the Nelson (from the Simpsons) “Ha-ha” meme. When the two teams met in Ford Field on Sunday Night Football, nobody was laughing at Detroit anymore. The winless Lions dominated the visiting Patriots, 26-10. Detroit’s heretofore dismal defense held Tom Brady, Gronk and 9 guys apparently plucked from a random sidewalk to just 209 total yards and 12 first downs. This is what the Lions had in mind when they hired Matt Patricia away from the Patriots to be the head coach. His defense was phenomenal. Kerryon Johnson broke the 70-game string of no 100-yard rushers in just his third game in the NFL. Matthew Stafford was sharper than he had been in the ugly opening losses, with some help from Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones. Now both teams are 1-2 and suddenly fates are changed. A Lions fan base teetering between anger and apathy as late as 8 p.m. Sunday night is rejuvenated, while a cocksure Patriots nation is suddenly wondering if maybe this is the year it all comes crashing down.):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3068/$10-After-NFL-Week-3

Lions Blog