Lions Blog: 2019

Tuesday, December 31, 2019

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 12-31-19

Monday, December 30, 2019

Morning Lions Links for Monday 12-30-19

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: Golladay leaves season finale with concussion:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-golladay-leaves-season-finale-with-concussion

FOUR DOWNS: Johnson & Scarbrough a nice duo for Lions:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/four-downs-johnson-scarbrough-a-nice-duo-for-lions

Lions 2020 NFL Draft pick set:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-2020-nfl-draft-pick-set

Lions trailed Green Bay for 0 seconds this season. Mason Crosby swept them anyway.:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/lions-trailed-green-bay-for-0-seconds-this-season-mason-crosby-swept-them-anyway.html

Inside the locker room: How the Packers beat the Lions with crucial screen pass on final drive:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/inside-the-locker-room-how-the-packers-beat-the-lions-with-crucial-screen-pass-on-final-drive.html

Pending Lions free agent Graham Glasgow: I would like to feel like I’m wanted:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/pending-lions-free-agent-graham-glasgow-i-would-like-to-feel-like-im-wanted.html

Detroit Lions DT Snacks Harrison is mulling retirement:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/detroit-lions-dt-snacks-harrison-is-mulling-retirement.html

Darius Slay knows he’s one of best, won’t lose sleep over where he’s playing next season:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/darius-slay-knows-hes-one-of-best-wont-lose-sleep-over-where-hes-playing-next-season.html

What they’re saying nationally after Lions lose to Packers as time expires in Week 17:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/what-theyre-saying-nationally-after-lions-lose-to-packers-as-time-expires-in-week-17.html

Here's where things stand with Lions' big offseason decisions:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-graham-glasgow-free-agency/2772062001/

Lions heartbroken by death of Marvin Jones' son: 'Definitely playing inspired':  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-marvin-jones-son-death/2772368001/

Aaron Rodgers tells Darius Slay in jersey swap: 'You're one of the greatest':  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-darius-slay-aaron-rodgers-jersey-swap/2771595001/

Mercifully, the Lions' 2019 season is over:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-lose-ninth-straight-insist-theres-lots-hope/2768694001/

Niyo: Last-minute kick in the teeth fitting end to dreadful Lions' season:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/john-niyo/2019/12/29/niyo-last-minute-kick-teeth-fitting-end-dreadful-lions-season/2769295001/

Lions’ Prater passes Hanson among all-time leaders of 50-plus-yard field goals:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/lions-prater-passes-hanson-among-all-time-leaders-50-plus-yard-field-goals/2771250001/

Lions’ trick touchdown play had been in the works since training camp:  https://lionslowdown.com/2019/12/29/lions-trick-touchdown-play-had-been-in-the-works-since-training-camp/

Five keys to Detroit Lions’ 23-20 loss to Green Bay Packers:  https://lionslowdown.com/2019/12/29/five-keys-to-detroit-lions-23-20-loss-to-green-bay-packers/

Lions Week 17 Player of the Game for the last time in 2019:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-player-of-the-game-week-17/

Kerryon Johnson honors Marvin Jones with touchdown celebration:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/29/kerryon-johnson-honors-marvin-jones-with-touchdown-celebration/

Watch: Lions execute a beautiful trick play against the Packers:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/29/watch-lions-execute-a-beautiful-trick-play-against-the-packers/

Emotional day following death of Marvin Jones' son:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/sports/emotional-day-following-death-of-marvin-jones-son

NFL Week 17 PFF ReFocused: Green Bay Packers 23, Detroit Lions 20:  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-week-17-pff-refocused-chicago-bears-21-minnesota-vikings-19

What we learned from Sunday's Week 17 games (Green Bay Packers 23, Detroit Lions 20 - 1. It wasn't especially pretty, but Green Bay sealed up a first-round bye in the NFC and can still grab the No. 1 seed away from San Francisco if the Niners stumble in Seattle. The Packers hit the scene lifeless and sleepy on offense with an ice-cold Aaron Rodgers throwing for 29 air yards over the first 27 minutes. Aa-Rod pulled Green Bay out of a 17-3 hole, though, with gorgeous scoring darts to Davante Adams and Allen Lazard. Rodgers also tossed a pick with the game notched at 20-20 inside the two-minute warning, but returned one drive later to fling the ball to Aaron Jones, who weaved deep into Lions territory to set up Mason Crosby's game-winning field goal as time expired. The second-half surge looks more impressive considering right tackle Bryan Bulaga was lost to a concussion while center Corey Linsley left with a back injury. Still, the ugly first half raises concerns about this offense. 2. Detroit's final tilt in a lost campaign started with a dash of sizzle as wideout Danny Amendola flung a trick-play touchdown rope to signal-caller David Blough. The Matthew Stafford fill-in did just enough to help the Lions build that 17-3 advantage, but also tossed a killer fourth-quarter pick that set up Green Bay's game-tying march. Chalk it up as another problematic crumbling for coach Matt Patricia, whose club has led the league in blown leads over the past two seasons. -- Marc Sessler):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001092693/article/what-we-learned-from-sundays-week-17-games

Insider Notes: Six hot seats for 2020 (Detroit Lions: Their results have gone backwards, fast, after firing Jim Caldwell despite a winning record in a place where no one has a winning record. Keeping Matt Patricia for a third year seemed a stretch to some around the league, but ownership has made it clear this had better be a playoff team in 2020 … but even with a healthy Matthew Stafford that might be a stretch in that division. The Lions haven't been able to sustain anything positive under this regime and seem to still have their share of issues along the offensive and defensive lines. Big gains will be required of this group.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-17-insider-notes-six-teams-with-coaches-already-on-2020-hot-seat-philip-rivers-next-stop-and-more/

NFL Week 17 Takeaways: Pats Run Out of Time, Chiefs Get the Bye (Things that make me giddy - David Blough’s First Career Touchdown Catch: Well, of course it was his first. Blough, the Lions’ rookie quarterback, only has four touchdown passes. Trick plays are always great, and this one was a beauty. Blough faked the handoff to the RB and flipped it to Danny Amendola, who was motioning across. Blough, totally unaccounted for by the Packers defense, then slips up the field to make the catch on the throw by Amendola. Blough did also make a throw on the play—he launched the football into the stands after he crossed the goal line.  Mason Crosby’s Bye-Clinching Kick: The Packers kicker has had a challenging year, personally. His wife, Molly, had surgery to remove a rare tumor in her right lung days before the season started. His sister-in-law, Brittany, passed away after a years-long battle with ovarian cancer the day after Thanksgiving. In the context of difficult news at home, the game of football is very small. But it has been nice to see Crosby experience professional joy this year, making a career-best more than 90 percent of his field goals, including the 33-yarder that clinched the first-round bye.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/12/29/nfl-week-17-takeaways-analysis-scores

NFL Winners and Losers: Packers eke out a key win to clinch bye, but nobody will fear them or Aaron Rodgers (The Green Bay Packers’ path looked easy. They just had to beat the Detroit Lions to clinch a first-round bye, with a good chance at the No. 1 seed in the NFC. The Lions had lost 11 of 12 games and eight in a row. Their defense was near the bottom of the NFL in every important statistical category, and dead last in passing yards allowed. And in a hugely important game for the Packers that meant nothing for the Lions and their awful defense, Aaron Rodgers’ line at one point was 2-of-12 for 29 yards. The Packers trailed 14-0. Rodgers will be credited for a second-half rally, but the truth is if the Lions had a remotely competent quarterback, the Packers would have lost. Green Bay needed every second against a putrid Lions team to squeeze out a 23-20 win and clinch a first-round bye. Rodgers threw a pair of second-half touchdowns and Mason Crosby hit a game-winning field goal as time expired. The Packers were even alive for the No. 1 seed, just needing a Seahawks win over the 49ers on “Sunday Night Football.” It might be the least intimidating 13-3 team we’ve seen in a long time. Part of that is the quarterback, who might have moved from all-time great to currently good. No matter if Rodgers doesn’t have a lot to work with outside of Davante Adams, if Matt LaFleur’s scheme is new and maybe not fitting, Rodgers shouldn’t have let the Lions hang around that long on Sunday. The Rodgers of five or 10 years ago would have buried the Lions by halftime. It’s not that Rodgers is bad. And he’s still capable of moments where he looks great, like some plays in the second half Sunday. But it’s hard to see the Packers rolling through the playoffs if they can barely beat the Lions. Rodgers couldn’t get anything going on a possession at the two-minute warning and threw an interception on third-and-20, but the Lions were so bad they gave it right back with plenty of time to get a field goal. While it seemed that injuries the past couple years, or Mike McCarthy’s coaching, were holding back Rodgers, maybe the decline was already happening. Rodgers has been healthy this season. He had a new coach who was supposed to bring creative offensive ideas. And while the Packers have had a good season, it was clear all year they were over their skis a bit as their record kept improving. The Packers rarely looked like a 12-3 team. And even when they did, it was because Aaron Jones was dominating or the defense was on a hot streak. Rodgers has been good. Not great. When the playoffs start, you’ll hear about the Packers being dangerous because of Rodgers. And prime Rodgers was one of the best quarterbacks ever, so it’s hard to rule out him having a great playoff run. Being in Lambeau Field in January is a tremendous equalizer. But a few years ago, the thought of having to face Rodgers and a 13-3 Packers team in Green Bay for the playoffs would have been frightening. Not so much anymore.):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-winners-and-losers-packers-eek-out-a-key-win-to-clinch-bye-but-nobody-will-fear-them-or-aaron-rodgers-213516544.html

Aaron Rodgers: Too many missed throws on Sunday:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/12/29/aaron-rodgers-too-many-missed-throws-on-sunday/

FMIA Week 17: Game 256’S Thrilling Finish Sets Table For NFL Playoffs (Detroit has announced Matt Patricia is back, and I don’t suppose the Lions will reconsider. But he’s a lucky man. The Lions are 6-19-1 in Patricia’s last 26 games, allowing a defensively generous 24.0 points per game and ending this season on a nine-game losing streak. Patricia, of course, is a defensive coach, and he hasn’t build a strong defense, or even close to one. The Lions in 2019 allowed less than 19 points in one game all season. Patricia’s fortunate he went to work for a patient organization.):  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/12/30/nfl-playoff-preview-49ers-fmia-peter-king/

Grades:

Grading Detroit Lions' 23-20 loss to Green Bay Packers:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-grades-green-bay-packers/2768703001/

Justin Rogers' Lions grades: Detroit holds up well before injuries torpedo effort:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/justin-rogers-lions-grades-detroit-holds-up-well-before-injuries-torpedo-effort/2771325001/

2020 NFL Draft:

2020 NFL Draft: Detroit Lions team needs, draft picks, prospects to watch:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-team-needs-draft-picks-prospects-to-watch/

What players have stood out so far in College Football's Bowl Season? (12-29-19):  https://www.nfldraftdiamonds.com/2019/12/bowl-season/

Video:

Patricia on Week 17 loss to Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/patricia-on-week-17-loss-to-packers

Lions react to Week 17 loss to Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/lions-react-to-week-17-loss-to-packers

Wrapping up the Lions' 9th straight loss, the 2019 season and a look at offseason:  https://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/30/detroit-lions-game-packers/2772609001/

Video: Breaking down Lions' loss to the Packers:  https://www.detroitnews.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/30/video-breaking-down-lions-loss-packers/2771874001/

Sunday, December 29, 2019

Evening Lions Links for Sunday 12-29-19

Articles:

O'HARA'S BURNING QUESTIONS: What was the bottom line in loss to Packers?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-burning-questions-what-was-the-bottom-line-in-loss-to-packers

RECAP: Lions vs. Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/recap-lions-vs-packers-blough-johnson-golladay

Observations: Lions wrap up worst season since 2010 with ninth straight loss:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/observations-lions-wrap-up-worst-season-since-2010-with-ninth-straight-loss.html

Lions WR Kenny Golladay knocked out of finale with brain injury:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/lions-wr-kenny-golladay-knocked-out-of-finale-with-brain-injury.html

Watch: David Blough becomes first Lions QB to catch TD pass since 1984:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/watch-david-blough-becomes-first-lions-qb-to-catch-td-pass-since-1984.html

As Lions show grit and spirit, the Packers show them how to win (again):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/shawn-windsor/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-score-green-bay-packers/2769540001/

Lions wrap up 2nd or 3rd pick in draft with loss to Packers,:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-pick-green-bay-packers/2768689001/

After Lions' final crushing loss, here's a reason for hope next season:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-score-green-bay-packers/2769817001/

Lions cough up another lead, end season with loss to Packers:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-cough-up-another-lead-end-season-loss-green-bay-packers/2769355001/

Recap: Packers' Crosby kicks field goal as time expires to hand Lions 23-20 loss:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/live-updates-detroit-lions-vs-green-bay-packers/2769077001/

Trick play a treat for Lions as David Blough catches TD pass vs Packers:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/trick-play-treat-lions-as-david-blough-catches-td-pass-vs-packers/2769571001/

Pat Caputo - Lions end season with symbolic loss:  https://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/pat-caputo---lions-end-season-with-symbolic-loss/article_ea5e3750-2a82-11ea-b1c6-3ff4dc148367.html

NFL season wrap: What went wrong, what's next for non-playoff teams (Lions - What went wrong: The Lions' defense struggled all year long on defense, allowing quarterback after quarterback to shred them. The defense has been almost historically awful, giving up an average 400 yards per game -- close to the average Detroit allowed in its winless 2008 season. Offensively, the Lions found something until quarterback Matthew Stafford suffered a season-ending back injury against Oakland on Nov. 3. Detroit, which had hovered around .500 with Stafford playing at a Pro Bowl level, gradually fell apart and didn't win a game in November or December. Coach Matt Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn will return for 2020, but expect other staff changes to be coming as early as this week. Biggest offseason question: There are a few, starting with who will be running Detroit's defense, but the underlying pressing question is where does cornerback Darius Slay play in 2020? Slay had been a possible trade candidate earlier this season. With one year left on his contract, do the Lions try to move him or keep him with a new deal? What makes this more intriguing is the reality Patricia and Quinn have of needing to win in 2020 -- Lions ownership said Detroit must be a playoff contender next season -- and Slay, a three-time Pro Bowler, is one of the better corners in the league. There's much to be sorted between now and the draft in April, and what the Lions choose to do with Slay could dictate a lot of Detroit's offseason. -- Michael Rothstein):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28224206/nfl-season-wrap-went-wrong-next-non-playoff-teams

Packers barely beat Lions 23-20 to earn first-round bye:  https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127983

Lions WR Danny Amendola throws 19-yard TD pass to QB David Blough:  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28388883/lions-wr-danny-amendola-throws-19-yard-td-pass-qb-david-blough

Mike Rothstein's thoughts on game:  http://www.espn.com/espn/now?nowId

Mike Rothstein's first half thoughts:  http://www.espn.com/espn/now?nowId

Tracy Walker breaks the century mark in tackles:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/29/tracy-walker-breaks-the-century-mark-in-tackles/

Contract status of every Lions player heading into the 2020 offseason:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/29/contract-status-of-every-lions-player-heading-into-the-2020-offseason/

Packers come back to beat Lions, claim a playoff bye:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/12/29/packers-come-back-to-beat-lions-claim-a-playoff-bye/

Lions go to their bag of tricks, take early lead over Packers:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/12/29/lions-go-to-their-bag-of-tricks-take-early-lead-over-packers/

Video:

Can't-Miss Play: 'Dola' Dimes! Amendola wows on TD throw to Blough:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001092132/Can-t-Miss-Play-Dola-Dimes-Amendola-wows-on-TD-throw-to-Blough

Kerryon Johnson caps Lions' 83-yard drive with physical TD run:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001092288/Kerryon-Johnson-caps-Lions-83-yard-drive-with-physical-TD-run

The Golladays continue! Kenny G gets open for 42-yard deep catch:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001092257/The-Golladays-continue-Kenny-G-gets-open-for-42-yard-deep-catch

Ty Johnson shocks Packers' D with 40-yard dash to set up FG attempt before half:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001092324/Ty-Johnson-shocks-Packers-D-with-40-yard-dash-to-set-up-FG-attempt-before-half

Can't-Miss Play: Amani Oruwariye soars into rafters to pick Rodgers' deep bomb:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001092569/Can-t-Miss-Play-Amani-Oruwariye-soars-into-rafters-to-pick-Rodgers-deep-bomb

Will Harris charges through for HUGE sack on Rodgers:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001092217/Will-Harris-charges-through-for-HUGE-sack-on-Rodgers

Packers vs. Lions highlights | Week 17:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001092612/Packers-vs-Lions-highlights-Week-17

Wilson on improving in the offseason:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/wilson-on-improving-in-the-offseason

Harrison on competing hard all season:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/harrison-on-competing-hard-all-season

Slay on loss to Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/slay-on-loss-to-packers

Pre-Game Lions Links for Sunday 12-29-19

Articles:

INACTIVES: Lions vs. Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/inactives-lions-vs-packers-x2307

5 things to watch: Lions vs. Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/5-things-to-watch-lions-vs-packers-x4356

O'HARA'S FINAL THOUGHTS: Johnson & Scarbrough competing to lead Lions in rushing:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-final-thoughts-johnson-scarbrough-competing-to-lead-lions-in-rushing

Lions OT Rick Wagner wraps up season with third straight missed start:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/lions-ot-rick-wagner-wraps-up-season-with-third-straight-missed-start.html

The 2010s sucked for Detroit sports, but here's why it will get better in 2020s:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-tigers-red-wings-pistons/2756552001/

Lions vs. Packers predictions: Any chance the losing skid ends?:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-green-bay-packers-predictions/2758157001/

Five things to watch: Packers at Lions:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/29/five-things-watch-packers-lions/2766280001/

Five things to watch as Lions face Packers to wrap up the season:  https://lionslowdown.com/2019/12/28/five-things-to-watch-as-lions-face-packers-to-wrap-up-the-season/

Packers can earn No. 1 seed in NFC with win and 49ers loss:  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28378519/packers-earn-no-1-seed-nfc-win-49ers-loss

Final game of the season provides big opportunity for Lions rookies:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/29/final-game-of-the-season-provides-big-opportunity-for-lions-rookies/

Breaking down the Lions draft pick scenarios for Week 17:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/29/breaking-down-the-lions-draft-pick-scenarios-for-week-17/

Lions Week 17 comprehensive depth chart:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/29/detroit-lions-week-17-comprehensive-depth-chart/

Updating Vegas Watch: Lions now 12.5-point underdogs vs Packers in Week 17:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/29/updating-vegas-watch-lions-now-12-5-point-underdogs-vs-packers-in-week-17/

2020 NFL Draft:

NFL Draft: What we learned from the College Football Playoffs:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-what-we-learned-from-the-college-football-playoffs/

LSU WR Justin Jefferson catches 4 1st-half touchdowns in Peach Bowl:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/28/justin-jefferson-nfl-draft-peach-bowl-college-football-playoff-lsu-oklahoma/

Joe Burrow throws for 403 yards, 7 touchdowns in 1st half of Peach Bowl:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/28/joe-burrow-college-football-playoff-peach-bowl-justin-jefferson-lsu-oklahoma/

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 12-29-19

Articles:

Ask Kyle: Thoughts on the Lions’ win-now mandate, Darius Slay, and the future of T.J. Hockenson:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/ask-kyle-thoughts-on-the-lions-win-now-mandate-darius-slay-and-the-future-of-tj-hockenson.html

Lions vs. Packers: Matchups to watch, key questions heading into regular-season finale:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/lions-vs-packers-matchups-to-watch-key-questions-heading-into-regular-season-finale.html

Lions WR Marvin Jones' infant son, Marlo, dies suddenly:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/28/marvin-jones-son-dies-marlo-detroit-lions/2766583001/

Lions vs. Packers: Scouting report, prediction:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/28/detroit-lions-green-bay-packers-scouting-report-prediction/2754578001/

Lions season hits its merciful end vs. Packers: 'Our issue is finishing':  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/28/detroit-lions-2019-season/2762197001/

These Lions share their New Year's resolutions: Yes, more wins:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/28/detroit-lions-new-years-resolutions-2020/2754483001/

Board games, 'Friends' and Twitter blocks: How Lions cope with a lost season:  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36203/board-games-friends-and-twitter-blocks-how-lions-cope-with-a-lost-season

2020 NFL Draft:

Temple C Matt Hennessy declares for 2020 NFL draft:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/27/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-matt-hennessy-temple-declares/

2020 NFL draft: Travis Etienne scouting report:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/28/2020-nfl-draft-travis-etienne-scouting-report/

Appalachian State RB Darrynton Evans declares for 2020 NFL draft:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/28/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-darrynton-evans-appalachian-state-declares/

2020 NFL draft: Jalen Hurts scouting report:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/28/2020-nfl-draft-jalen-hurts-scouting-report/

2020 NFL draft: A.J. Epenesa scouting report:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/27/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-scouting-report-a-j-epenesa-iowa/

Boise State EDGE Curtis Weaver declares for 2020 NFL draft:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/28/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-curtis-weaver-boise-state-declares/

TCU DT Ross Blacklock declares for 2020 NFL draft:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/28/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-ross-blacklock-tcu-declares/

Saturday, December 28, 2019

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 12-28-19

Articles:

Lions vs. Packers injury report: Dec. 27:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-vs-packers-injury-report-dec-27

NOTEBOOK: Blough, Lions looking to play spoiler to Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-blough-lions-looking-to-play-spoiler-to-packers

O’HARA’S WEEK 17 CHECKLIST: Lions vs. Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-week-17-checklist-lions-vs-packers-kennard

Lions QB Matthew Stafford restructures contract to free up cap space:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/lions-qb-matthew-stafford-restructures-contract-to-free-up-cap-space.html

Lions WR Kenny Golladay could land big extension next offseason:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/lions-wr-kenny-golladay-could-land-big-extension-next-offseason.html

Lions sign LB Anthony Pittman to 53-man roster:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/lions-sign-lb-anthony-pittman-to-53-man-roster.html

Final score predictions for Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers in Week 17:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/final-score-predictions-for-detroit-lions-vs-green-bay-packers-in-week-17.html

Lions' Jamal Agnew finding his groove again as return man:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/27/detroit-lions-jamal-agnew-return-man/2759156001/

Graham Glasgow's final game as a Lions could be Sunday:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/27/detroit-lions-graham-glasgow-free-agency/2758120001/

This is what Lions' Darius Slay has to say about team, coach, Detroit:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/27/darius-slay-wants-stay-detroit-lions-fine-matt-patricia/2753579001/

Lions-Packers: Keys to victory, matchups to watch:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/27/detroit-lions-green-bay-packers-cheatsheet-darius-slay-davonte-adams/2756254001/

Detroit Lions: Solving the greatest 'What ifs' of the decade:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/27/detroit-lions-worst-decisions-biggest-mistakes/2746448001/

Lions vs. Packers scouting report: Matchups, trends, players to watch:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/27/lions-vs-packers-scouting-report-zadarius-smith-menace-green-bay-d/2750415001/

Graham Glasgow 'open' to return but isn't feeling the love from Lions:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/27/graham-glasgow-open-return-but-isnt-feeling-love-detroit-lions/2758170001/

Detroit Lions wrap up yet another losing decade:  https://lionslowdown.com/2019/12/27/detroit-lions-wrap-up-yet-another-losing-decade/

2020 NFL Draft:

TWENTYMAN: 10 players to watch in national semifinal games:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-10-players-to-watch-in-national-semifinal-games

Draft prospects for Lions fans to watch in college football selection committee, playoff games:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/draft-prospects-for-lions-fans-to-watch-in-college-football-selection-committee-playoff-games.html

College Football Playoff Preview: Ohio State vs. Clemson:  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-playoff-preview-ohio-state-vs-clemson

College Football Playoff Preview: LSU vs. Oklahoma:  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-playoff-preview-lsu-vs-oklahoma

Prospects to watch in Music City Bowl:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/music-city-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-mississippi-state-vs-louisville/

Draft prospects in First Responder Bowl:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/first-responder-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-w-kentucky-vs-w-michigan/

Prospects to watch in Orange Bowl:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/orange-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-florida-vs-virginia/

NFL draft: 2020 draft prospects to watch from every college bowl game:  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-2020-draft-prospects-to-watch-from-every-college-bowl-game-175124452.html

Which Michigan prospects will leave early for the 2020 NFL draft?:  https://wolverineswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/26/michigan-football-predicting-2020-returns/

Tony Pauline Mailbag: NFL Draft news on Andrew Thomas, AJ Epenesa and more:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tony-pauline-mailbag-week-17-nfl-draft-news-andrew-thomas-aj-epenesa-and-more/

Quarterbacks NFL Draft: Do not sleep on Hurts and Eason:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/quarterbacks-nfl-draft-do-not-sleep-on-hurts-and-eason/

Video:

Patricia on Week 17 matchup against Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/patricia-on-week-17-matchup-against-packers

Goin' Nuts With T.J.: Season Finale:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/goin-nuts-with-t-j-season-finale

Clay Travis expects the Packers to win big against the Lions:  https://www.foxsports.com/watch/lock-it-in/video/1663664707770?itm_source=parsely-api?utm_campaign=team_page&utm_medium=fscom&utm_source=main_content&utm_content=highlights

Friday, December 27, 2019

Mock Draft Round Up #9

Walterfootball Charlie (5. DT Derrick Brown: Detroit's defense has been a massive disappointment this season. A'Shawn Robinson and Mike Daniels are entering free agency and may not be re-signed. Here's a versatile defender who could dominate between Snacks Harrison and Trey Flowers. Brown has 50 tackles with four sacks, four passes batted and two forced fumbles in 2019. Against Oregon and Texas A&M, he was very disruptive and made a lot of superb plays that showed off his tremendous skill set. Brown totaled 48 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 10.5 tackles for a loss and one forced fumble in 2018. Teams sent consistent double teams at him, but he still managed to stuff runs and cause disruption. Brown also has the quickness to fire into the backfield and pressure the quarterback from the interior. The 6-foot-5, 316-pounder contains a ton of upside and is just scratching the surface of what he is capable of doing. Brown (6-5, 316) had an impressive 2017 season, playing well down the stretch when Auburn made a run into the SEC Championship. He totaled 56 tackles with 3.5 sacks, nine tackles for a loss, one pass broken up and two forced fumbles on the year. 35.  Solomon Kindley, OG, Georgia: The Lions could use more talent on their offensive line. Here's an upgrade at left guard. Kindley is having an excellent 2019 season and has a lot of buzz in the scouting community. Team sources rave about Kindley (6-4, 335), and he could end up being a special guard prospect. Kindley is a big blocker with a thick build, but area scouts are raving about the way Kindley can move and feel his movement skills alone could him a starter in the NFL. On top of Kindley being an easy mover in a big body, he has nastiness to him and really gets after defensive players. Kindley helped pave the way for D'Andre Swift and Elijah Holyfield as Georgia's starting left guard in 2018. He broke into the starting lineup as a redshirt freshman in 2017 and blocked well to help Georgia reach the National Championship. Kindley could be a riser throughout the 2020 NFL Draft process. 69. RB Najee Harris: The Lions could use another running back in case Kerryon Johnson gets hurt again. In 2019, Harris has averaged 5.9 yards per carry for 1,088 yards with 11 touchdowns. He has 27 receptions for 304 yards and seen scores as a receiver. Harris has flashed at times, but some scouts don't feel Harris is the same caliber as other recent Alabama running backs like Josh Jacobs, Damien Harris or Derrick Henry.  Harris (6-2, 230) is a big back who has some quickness and athleticism for the NFL. Over the past few seasons, he has not run to his size and has looked to bounce too many carries to the outside rather than using his power to run behind his pads in a physical manner. Lately and especially against LSU and Mississippi State, Harris has been running aggressively downhill with decisiveness. His tape from the back half of the 2019 season will help his draft grade and definitely makes him look like a better pro prospect compared to how he performed at the beginning of the season.) (12-27-19):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2020charlie.php

CBS Josh Edwards (3. DE AJ Epenesa: Epenesa is a gifted pass rusher. The Lions added Trey Flowers a year ago but he needs a running mate on the other side. NFC North offenses will have to fear the Flowers-Epenesa tandem.) (12-26-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-washington-snatches-chase-young-from-new-york-chargers-replace-rivers/

Walterfootball (3. Detroit Lions - CB Jeff Okudah: Darius Slay is a terrific cornerback, but the rest of Detroit's secondary has been horrible this season. They've needed an upgrade across from Slay for quite a while. Jeff Okudah is a big, athletic, speedy cornerback with immense upside. 35. RB Najee Harris: Kerryon Johnson hasn't been able to stay healthy, so I wonder if the Lions would be willing to spend a second-day pick on a running back to complement him. Najee Harris was one of the top recruits in the country in 2017, and he showed off his talents as a freshman. He's been tremendous again this season. 67. LB Dylan Moses: Matt Patricia needs a centerpiece for his defense, as the Lions have struggled to cover in space for quite a while. Dylan Moses, a former five-star recruit, missed a chunk of his freshman campaign, but was very productive as a sophomore. Unfortunately, Moses tore his ACL early in 2019.) (12-25-19):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2020.php

Draftwire (5. Detroit Lions - DT Derrick Brown: This defense needs a dominant, disruptive force in the trenches to build around, whether that’s on the edge or along the interior. In this scenario, Brown is the best combination of value, need and fit. He’s got rare athleticism for his size, and all the strength and power you’d expect. 38. Detroit Lions - DE Terrell Lewis.) (12-25-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/25/2020-nfl-mock-draft-christmas-2-rounds-joe-burrow-chase-young-tua-tagovailoa/

CBS Chris Trapasso (3. CB Jeff Okudah: The Lions clearly needs loads of work personnel-wise (and maybe coach-wise?), but the biggest issues are on the defensive side. Okudah is a pretty easy pick here for Detroit, as he's a long, twitchy, ball-hawking outside corner.) (12-25-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-patriots-draft-justin-herbert-jordan-love-goes-in-top-10-to-chargers/

Draft Tek (3. DT Derrick Brown: Have you heard about the Open Letter to the Fans from Lions' Owner Martha Ford? If not, you can check it out here. In summary, Mrs. Ford and her daughter, Sheila Ford Hamp, penned a letter to the Lions' faithful assuring them that they understand the frustration, are aiming towards building a winner, believe in stability of the front office, and that Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia are getting one more season to turn this ship around. In a sense, the letter is an attempt to explain the disappointing season and the decision to bring back a duo that has regressed the Lions' record by 9 games in 2 seasons since Caldwell was fired, where he finished with a 9-7 record in 2017 (Patricia 6-10 in 2018, a 3-game regression). The letter cites injuries to "our best players" despite aforementioning that injuries "happen in the NFL and are not an excuse", uses the word "competitive" on 3 different occasions in 5 paragraphs, and ever-so-eloquently finishes the letter discussing season ticket prices for the 2020 season. Martha, this isn't high school football. Having the competitive spirit is a requirement at this high of a level. The inclusion of ticket prices seeing a reduction or staying the same just feels ...off. It has no place in this letter discussing the decision to keep the GM and Head Coach. Instead, it comes off as an apology, whereas Lions' fans don't want discounted tickets, we want a winner. We want to know what the plan entails, the nitty-gritty details. Additionally, I think we can all find some middle ground about the injuries; it's hard to win without your best players on the field. However, the Steelers this season are without arguably their "best players" and are still in a playoff hunt. This decision should be terrifying to non-believers of Quinn and Patricia. With the Lions projected to have at least $47 million in cap space this offseason along with a top-5 draft selection, the Fords have given the keys to Quinn-Patricia to basically, in a sense, dictate the Lions' future both monetarily and level of talent on the roster. Undoubtedly, it will be interesting to see just exactly what they will do now that they're under the proverbial gun, but on the other side of this coin is something equally disheartening. If they botch this, it could set the organization back even more. - Doug Hyde, Lions Analyst. 35. DE Julian Okwara. 67. ILB Malik Harrison 99. LB Chazz Surratt 131. S K'Von Wallace. 154. WR Aaron Fuller. 162. QB Jordan Love) (12-24-19): https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Mock-Draft/2020-NFL-Mock-Draft-Round-1.asp

CBS Ryan Wilson (3. DT Derrick Brown: GM Bob Quinn and coach Matt Patricia are expected back in 2020 and one of the first orders of business will be shoring up the defensive line, which ranks 24th against the run and 31st in getting after the quarterback. Brown is not only the best D-lineman in this class, he's one of the best players in this class.) (12-24-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-raiders-take-strong-armed-qb-cowboys-get-best-wr-in-class-dolphins-still-wait-for-tua/

PFF Mock Draft (3. CB JEFFREY OKUDAH, OHIO STATE: Okudah isn't as much of a sure thing as Young, but he similarly checks pretty much every box you want to see at the position. Okudah hasn't allowed 50 or more yards in any single game this season.) (12-24-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pff-2020-nfl-mock-draft-chase-young-lands-in-washington-with-the-second-pick

Foxsports (3. Detroit Lions — Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn (7) (2019 season stats: 4.0 sacks, 49 total tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 4 passes defended): The Lions are second to last in the NFL in sacks despite adding Trey Flowers in free agency. There are needs in the secondary, but the pass rush has been woeful, and the run defense just pedestrian. Brown, Flowers and Snacks Harrison is a formidable front that is needed when you see Aaron Jones and Dalvin Cook twice a year.) (12-24-19):  https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/gallery/nfl-mock-draft-2020-chase-young-joe-burrow-tua-tagovailoa-draft-order-120719

Sporting News (3. DE Chase Young: Young qualifies as a better prospect than recent Ohio State NFL studs Joey Bosa and Nick Bosa. Matt Patricia and Bob Quinn would jump at the chance to get this cornerstone talent for the team's defensive rebuild. Young (6-5, 265 pounds) is a game-changing disruptor. He has 16.5 sacks in only 11 games as a junior. He's the clear pick for a team that doesn't need a QB or a WR.). (12-23-19): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-giants-redskins-bengals-dolphins/12oemm21zwyjg15txow2ol9hg8

The Big lead Ryan Phillips (5. Detroit Lions: Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State: Detroit's secondary is a mess and this is a spot where they could land a star at cornerback. Okudah is the best corner in the country by a considerable margin. He has the upside of a shutdown guy, which is exactly what the Lions need.) (12-17-19):  https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/nfl-mock-draft-2020-joe-burrow-chase-young-01dv6bsjtpnz

ESPN's McShay Mock Draft 1 (5. CB Jeff Okudah) (12-16-19): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/17/first-mock-draft-espns-todd-mcshay-has-lions-taking-cornerback/2673675001/

SI Mock Draft (5. CB Jeff Okudah: Okudah is a top-five prospect with the size (6' 1", 200), fluidity and athleticism to develop into a true shutdown corner at the next level. Not only would he give Detroit an upgrade opposite Darius Slay, but Slay is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2020 season.) (12-11-19):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/12/11/nfl-mock-draft-2020-jeffrey-okudah-jerry-jeudy

Draftcountdown (6. CB Jeff Odukah: Considering they have one of the leagues worst pass defenses the Lions would be fortunate to find Okudah still on the board at this point. A unanimous five-star recruit coming out of high school, Okudah only had one career start entering his junior season due to the embarrassment of riches the Buckeyes have had at the cornerback position in recent years. Despite that modest experience Okudah was projected to be a Top 10 pick based mostly on potential. Not only did Okudah live up to those lofty expectations, he surpassed them. A big, fast and athletic cover guy, the physical tools were never in doubt with Okudah. Scouts wanted to see him make more plays in the secondary though and Okudah answered those questions in emphatic fashion. Okudah is arguably the first true shutdown corner to come along since Jalen Ramsey and is a better pro prospect than former teammates Marshon Lattimore (#11 overall in 2017) or Denzel Ward (#4 overall in 2018).) (12-4-19): http://draftcountdown.com/mock-draft/2020-mock-draft/round-1-2020-mock-draft-1/

Yahoo Eric Edholm (6. DE A.J. Epenesa: This might feel a skosh early to some, but Epenesa has been on fire of late and is starting to resemble the game-wrecking defender many thought he would be at the start of the season. And besides, doesn’t he look like a Lions defender? That is, of course, if GM Bob Quinn and head coach Matt Patricia are afforded a third year together in Detroit. A top wide receiver also could be an option here.) (12-4-19):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-2020-mock-lands-record-seven-bama-players-including-tua-in-round-1-144935782.html

Tony Pauline (11. Detroit Lions: Isaiah Simmons, OLB, Clemson: Simmons is the off the ball linebacker the Lions need. He brings great athleticism and ball skills, something he showed as a redshirt freshman when he lined up at safety. Simmons will be a top 20 pick if he enters the draft, something I expect he will do if Clemson makes a serious push towards the championship game.) (11-21-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tony-pauline-2020-nfl-mock-draft-v1/

Round 1 Pick (7 CB, 5 DT, 3 DE, 1 LB, 1 OT):

7 CB Jeff Okudah
5 DT Derrick Brown
1 DE A.J. Epenesa
1 LB Isaiah Simmons
1 OT Andrew Thomas
1 DE Chase Young

Round 2 Pick (1 DE, 1 RB, 1 OG, 1 RB):

1 DE Julian Okwara
1 OG Solomon Kindley
1 DE Terrell Lewis
1 RB Najee Harris

Round 3 (2 LB, 1 RB):

1 ILB Malik Harrison
1 LB Dylan Moses
1 RB Najee Harris

Round 4 (1 LB):

1 LB Chase Surratt

Round 5 Pick 139 (1 S):

1 S K'Von Wallace

Round 5 Pick 157 (1 WR)

1 WR Aaron Fuller

Round 6 (1 QB):

1 QB Jordan Love