Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Week 4 Power Rankings

USA Today (19. Lions (28): What a difference WR Kenny Golladay makes, finding the end zone in his 2020 debut ... which coincided with Detroit's first win in 11 months.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/columnist/nate-davis/2020/09/29/nfl-power-rankings-week-3-ravens-chiefs-packers-seahawks/3569252001/

SN Iyer (19. Detroit Lions 1-2 (31):  The Lions got into the win column after fast starts but sluggish finishes against both the Packers and Bears. Kenny Golladay made a big difference to their offense and the defense finally got to making critical plays for Matt Patricia.):   https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-power-rankings-cowboys-patriots-49ers-bears/2ztqkisair9t1aiyvib6lo05o

Fox News (19. Lions:  Kicker Matt Prater booted a 39-yard field goal as time expired to lift the Lions over the Arizona Cardinals, snapping an 11-game losing streak dating back to last season. Quarterback Matt Stafford threw for 270 yards and two touchdowns in the win.):  https://www.foxnews.com/sports/nfl-power-rankings-2020-season

CBS (20. Lions:  Winning on the road against the Cardinals could have saved their season. The offense is going to be tough to stop when healthy.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-4-power-rankings-chiefs-solidify-no-1-spot-patriots-climb-into-top-10-panthers-take-big-leap/


AP Pro32 (20. Lions):  https://apnews.com/hub/pro-32

Yahoo (21. Detroit Lions (1-2, LW: 29):  The Lions offense could be close to a real breakout. If they operate with a little more tempo, are more efficient in the red zone and Kenny Golladay stays healthy, they might be on to something. A comeback win Sunday at Arizona gives the Lions hope to turn things around.):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-power-rankings-the-chiefs-are-no-1-and-everyone-else-is-miles-behind-them-033742251.html

Athlonsports (21. Detroit Lions:  Matthew Stafford outplayed his hot-shot, young counterpart and the defense came through to get several short fields. There's still a lot of work left to be done but a step in the right direction for a franchise that took a few on the chin the first few weeks.):  https://athlonsports.com/nfl-power-rankings

NFL.com (22. Lions:  Hoo boy, did Matt Patricia need that. The Lions and their head coach won for the first time in nearly a year on Sunday, a performance that should lower the heat under Patricia's seat, if only temporarily. Matthew Stafford and Matt Prater deserve credit for closing out the Cardinals on the game's final drive, but let's give some love to Detroit's oft-maligned defense, which intercepted three Kyler Murray passes and kept the dynamic QB from running wild. Rookie cornerback Jeff Okudah did get posterized by Murray on a TD scamper, but the No. 3 overall pick exacted revenge with an interception and runback to set up a field goal. Resilience is an important character trait in this sport.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-power-rankings-week-4-chiefs-take-back-throne

Walterfootball (22. Lions:  Detroit Lions (1-2) - Previously: 23.  Underrated NFL Team: See why the Lions are an underrated NFL team in our Overrated-Underrated page.):  https://walterfootball.com/nflpowerrankings.php

ESPN (23. Detroit Lions - What we got wrong: The Lions would be a breakout team. Yes, there's still time for this to happen and for the first time in 11 months, Detroit is coming off a win instead of a loss. But the Lions' defense is still largely inconsistent and the offense, loaded with potential, too often settles for field goals and has drives stalled by poorly timed penalties. The Lions have something to build on after a come-from-behind win against Arizona -- only the second in Matt Patricia's tenure -- but this team is still making too many mistakes at this point to be a true playoff contender. -- Michael Rothstein):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29995194/week-4-nfl-power-rankings-1-32-poll-plus-2020-preseason-predictions-got-wrong

SI (23. Detroit Lions (1-2):  Just as Matt Patricia’s seat was close to its flashpoint, the Lions broke through with a surprise win over the surging Cardinals, sparked by three (and nearly four) interceptions of Kyler Murray. But Patricia, and his defense, still have much to prove after club ownership made clear when retaining him last season that they expect to be a playoff contender.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/09/29/nfl-week-4-power-rankings-bills-packers-seahawks

PFT (23. Lions (No. 30; 1-2): The win in Arizona won’t solve all their problems, but a loss would have made things a lot worse.):  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2020/09/29/pfts-week-four-power-rankings-3/


FTW (24. Detroit Lions (1-2) — I'm a firm believer that the win over the Cardinals will be detrimental to Detroit, because it will allow Matt Patricia to stick around a few weeks longer.):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/gallery/nfl-week-4-power-rankings-eagles-patriots-bills

Touchdown wire (25. Lions:  Over the last two seasons, Matt Patricia’s Lions have played the most man coverage of any NFL team, and they’ve been the worst at it by a pretty wide margin. So, the prospect of facing Kyler Murray and his ability to not only torch man coverage as a thrower but also as a rusher… well, it didn’t look good.  Give the Lions credit for a nice rebound, though. In their 26-23 win over the Cards, Detroit picked off three of Murray’s passes and limited him to 29 rushing yards on five carries. It’s not like the Lions are going to use this as a springboard for contention in the NFC North, but at least they can take a week-long break from their primary schematic embarrassment. Detroit did play a bit more zone on Sunday, which seems like the right call.):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-power-rankings-week-3-patrick-mahomes-lamar-jackson-aaron-rodgers-russell-wilson/

PFN (26. Detroit Lions (1-2):  The Lions intercepted Kyler Murray three times and won the game on a Matt Prater field goal as time expired. Detroit didn’t have a lot of success running the ball, but Matthew Stafford had a very solid and efficient outing. Jeff Okudah flashed superstar potential.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-power-rankings-week-4/


Average Power Rankings (370/17):  22
Posted by LionsFan at 6:04 PM 0 comments

Afternoon Lions Links for Wednesday 9-30-20

Articles:


Lions hopeful for more after TE Jesse James makes most of first targets of season:   https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/lions-hopeful-for-more-after-te-jesse-james-makes-most-of-his-first-targets-of-season.html

Lions’ Jayron Kearse eligible to come off suspension today, creating a logjam at safety:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/lions-jayron-kearse-eligible-to-come-off-suspension-today-creating-a-logjam-at-safety.html

Detroit Lions work out ex-Giants QB Kyle Lauletta with 2 wide receivers:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/detroit-lions-work-out-ex-giants-qb-kyle-lauletta-with-2-wide-receivers.html

Lions’ Matt Prater named NFC special teams player of the week for 11th time:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/lions-matt-prater-named-nfc-special-teams-player-of-the-week-for-11th-time.html

Despite sitting atop most NFL punting categories, Jack Fox and Brayden Coombs want to 'keep raising the bar':  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/30/detroit-lions-jack-fox-brayden-coombs-keep-raisinig-the-bar/

Lions protect same four practice squad players in Week 4: David Blough, Kerrith Whyte, Isaac Nauta, and Dee Virgin:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/30/detroit-lions-protect-four-practice-squad-players-week-4-david-blough-kerrith-whyte-isaac-nauta-dee-virgin/

Drew Brees Is Next 'Short' QB on Schedule for Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-saints-drew-brees-short-quarterback



Video:


Interview: Dave Birkett talks Matthew Stafford’s Hall of Fame chances, Lions first win:   https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2020/9/30/21494768/interview-dave-birkett-matthew-stafford-hall-of-fame-chances-lions-first-win
Posted by LionsFan at 1:07 PM 0 comments

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 9-30-20

Articles:

10 takeaways from Bevell, Undlin & Coombs:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-takeaways-from-bevell-undlin-coombs-peterson-oruwariye-okudah

Expect the Detroit Lions to continue to tinker with LB Jarrad Davis' role:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/expect-the-detroit-lions-to-continue-to-tinker-with-lb-jarrad-davis-role.html







Evaluating Upcoming Lions Roster Decisions:   https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-upcoming-roster-decisions

Evaluating Upcoming Lions Roster Decisions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-week-3-penthouse-doghouse

Darrell Bevell Says Adrian Peterson Wants Even More Carries:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/adrian-peterson-wants-more-carries

Grading all 32 first-round picks after Week 3 of the 2020 NFL season (PICK NO. 3: CB JEFFREY OKUDAH, DETROIT LIONS
2020 overall grade: 28.2.  There have been few careers off to rockier starts than that from the No. 3 overall pick this year. Okudah missed Week 1 with a hamstring injury before being schooled by Davante Adams and the Packers' offense in Week 2. This week, he was left grasping at air by the elusive Kyler Murray near the goal line and also struggled to contend with DeAndre Hopkins in coverage.  Overall, he allowed a catch on five of the six passes thrown his way for 79 receiving yards. He earned an ugly overall PFF grade (35.7), but he did at least get himself back in the positive column with an interception later in the game.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-grading-32-first-round-picks-week-3-2020-nfl-season

Rookie rankings: Burrow claims No. 1 (12.  Jonah Jackson:  Jackson is just a rock at left guard for Detroit. His ability to get to the second level has been noteworthy. At one point, he showed an impressive vertical pass set.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/week-4-nfl-rookie-power-rankings-joe-burrow-steals-top-spot-from-sidelined-chase-young/

NFL Coach Hot Seat Rankings 2020 (4. Matt Patricia - Lions.  This isn't going as planned.  When the Detroit Lions hired Patricia as their head coach in 2018, they did so under the guise of him having been born of the Bill Belichick tree of coaching. Well, two years in, there's nothing Belichickian about his reign quite yet. As a matter of fact, it's been the opposite, as the Lions moved in the wrong direction the past couple of years. They went an uninspiring 6-10 in Year 1 under Patricia and then finished 2019 with a 3-12-1 mark. Granted, they were without Matthew Stafford for eight games, but they were 3-4-1 with their franchise QB on the field. And that record was despite Stafford having thrown for 2,499 yards along with 19 touchdowns to only five interceptions in those eight starts.  In other words, the QB is not the issue, which leaves the bullseye on the front office and coaching, but the former isn't going to fire themselves. Patricia is going to have to really show something in 2020 for Lions fans to buy in, because they're nowhere near doing so just yet. He'll presumably have Stafford for the full ride this coming season, and there's no shortage of offensive weapons surrounding him, with future Hall of Fame running back Adrian Peterson now joining the fold as well.  That only leaves the defense to get back to shutting down opponents, something it has not been able to do. Allowing an average of more than 26 points per game in 2019 doesn't look good for a coach who hangs his hat on defense, and who's been a defensive coordinator before heading to Detroit. Sure, they held the hapless Giants (who are averaging fewer than 13 points per game in 2020) to just that -- 13 points -- but two of their first three defensive outings have no impressed, making it no surprise they're 1-2 right now.  That win over the Cardinals in Week 3 feels good in the moment, but tick tock.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-4-coach-hot-seat-rankings-2020-dan-quinn-at-top-matt-nagy-buys-time-with-qb-change/

2021 NFL Draft:

2021 NFL Draft Stock - Week 4 (9-29-20):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2021stock_04.php


Top 10 performances from 2021 NFL Draft prospects in Week 4:  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-top-10-performances-2021-nfl-draft-prospects-week-4

Alabama vs Texas A and M Prospect Preview: Skill positions shine (Waddle, Smith, Jones, O'Neal, Mond, Jones, Harris, Moses, Barmore, Brown) (9-29-20):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/alabama-football-prospect-preview-vs-texas-am/
Posted by LionsFan at 5:05 AM 0 comments

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Afternoon Lions Links for Tuesday 9-29-20

Articles:

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

Detroit Lions are 4-point underdogs in Week 4 matchup with New Orleans Saints:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/detroit-lions-are-4-point-underdogs-in-week-4-matchup-with-new-orleans-saints.html

By the numbers: Examining the Lions Week 3 victory over the Cardinals:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/29/by-the-numbers-examining-the-lions-week-3-victory-over-the-cardinals/

Detroit Lions Jayron Kearse, Bo Scarbrough, and Mike Ford are eligible to return in Week 4:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/29/detroit-lions-jayron-kearse-bo-scarbrough-and-mike-ford-are-eligible-to-return-in-week-4/

Week 3 outcomes rocket the Lions out of a top-10 draft pick in 2021:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/29/2021-nfl-draft-order-after-week-3-detroit-lions/

Jamie Collins was PFF's top-graded LB in the league in Week 3:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/29/lions-jamie-collins-pff-grade-best-of-week-3/


Defensive Trends Lions Must Keep against Saints:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-defensive-trends-to-keep-saints



NFC North Week 3 recap: Is the division becoming a two team race?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2020/9/29/21459699/nfc-north-week-3-recap-two-team-race-packers-bears
Posted by LionsFan at 1:50 PM 0 comments

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 9-29-20

Articles:

KEY QUESTIONS: What's next for Lions after notching first win of the season?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/key-questions-what-s-next-for-lions-after-notching-first-win-of-the-season

Lions ride defensive adjustments to fluster Cardinals QB Kyler Murray in team’s first win:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/lions-ride-defensive-adjustments-to-fluster-cardinals-qb-kyler-murray-in-teams-first-win.html




Lions Week 3 snap counts: Jarrad Davis sees career low in snaps, Tracy Walker takes every snap:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-week-3-snap-counts-jarrad-davis-sees-career-low-in-snaps-tracy-walker-takes-every-snap/


9 biggest heroes from Week 3: MVP favorite leads pack (8.  Matt Stafford and Matt Prater
The Lions win! The Lions win! This is not a drill, people! Detroit handed the upstart Cardinals their first defeat of the season in a 26-23 result.  Matthew Stafford is a great player and has always deserved better. His calm during the game-winning drive -- a 10-play, 70-yard trek that ended with a 39-yard field goal as time expired -- was perfect. Matt Prater, who hit all six of his kicks on Sunday (four field goals, two PATs), is clutch. He wasn't going to miss.  Detroit had lost 11 straight. Matt Patricia is rightly on the hot seat, still 14 games under .500 (10-24-1) as head coach of the Lions. Detroit should've beat Chicago in Week 1. The Lions were actually up double-digits on Green Bay in Week 2. And entering Week 3, Arizona was flying high, with a ton of talent coming into its own under Kliff Kingsbury. This was a great and needed win, thanks to the Matts.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/russell-wilson-kyle-shanahan-nick-foles-among-nfl-heroes-of-week-3

MMQB: The Four Motives That Power Russell Wilson, Inside Chicago's QB Change (LIONS LIVE IN THE MOMENT:  Matt Patricia was pretty aware of the fact that the old narratives were being fed going into this week—The Lions blew a big lead in the opener against the Bears, then went up 14-3 before being blown off the field in Green Bay, and that meant that the ghosts of Detroit’s NFL past were going to be resurrected ahead of his team’s trip to Arizona.  “In Detroit, that’s something that we deal with, that we battle, that sort of, 'Here we go again' mentality,” Patricia said to me, from the team hotel postgame. “We talked about it this week. … What I said is we've got to stay in the moment. We can't make the moment bigger than it is. Because if you do that, then it's almost like it becomes too much for you to handle. It becomes bigger than what it actually is. And all it actually is, is the next play.  “That's all it is. We've just got to do a great job on that play, we've got to stay in the moment and do a great job of doing our job on that play and not tying in everything else to it.”  And in doing so, the Lions may have saved their season—one that was flagging going into the game against the previously unbeaten Cardinals. Five first-half lead changes led into a nip-and-tuck second half. A big stop with five minutes left with the game tied at 23 set up the Lions for a game-winning drive, and a point where Patricia would prove prophetic.  On a second-and-5, under duress, Matthew Stafford uncorked as beautiful a throw as you’ll see at any level, one that landed 52 or 53 yards down field in the waiting arms of Marvin Hall for what appeared to be a game-winning touchdown. One problem: There was a flag down. And the call was holding on Halapoulivaati Vaitai, a tackle who was filling in at guard. That made it second-and-15 and created a very real Here We Go Again moment.  Instead, it just became a new starting point. T.J. Hockenson drew a pass interference call to score a first down on the next play, and then Stafford threw to Kenny Golladay for 11 yards, and Marvin Jones for 20 put the team well within Matt Prater’s range.  Soon thereafter, Prater split the uprights on a 39-yarder to give the Lions their first win.  For now, it’s something for the Lions to build off of coming out of a rough couple weeks—and proof that the experience of the spring and summer bonded a group that won’t go in the tank so easy. Detroit, you’ll remember, went through the same stuff every NFL team did, but may have felt it a little more acutely, because COVID-19 hit Michigan fairly hard pretty early on, and the social justice protests locally were fairly intense.  The result was the team working together on a ton of stuff. The Lions, in fact, were the first team to cancel a practice or a game (before even the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks) in the aftermath of the Jacob Blake shooting, and before that were among the more aggressive with their community efforts the last few months.  “I think that these guys truly feel that their teammates listen and respect them because of the things that we've been through,” Patricia said. “So when now we have to get to this week and we have to start having really tough conversations with each other about things we need to do better, I think they'll really listen to each other. As opposed to sometimes you have teams that don't. They just kind of move on. I think these guys respect each other so much that it's just like, 'Man, I've really got to do this better.'”  In picking Kyler Murray off three times and rallying in the end, the Lions did do better on Sunday. We’ll see where they take it from here.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/09/28/mmqb-week-3-seattle-seahawks-russell-wilson

2020 NFL Draft:

NFL Draft Stock Report: Kyle Pitts highlights Pauline’s Week 4 Risers:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-stock-week-4-risers-sliders-kyle-pitts/

NFL draft winners and losers: The Mississippi State prospect whom Mike Leach's arrival can help most:  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-winners-and-losers-the-mississippi-state-prospect-whom-mike-leachs-arrival-can-help-most-181118102.html



Video:


3 and Out with Chris Spielman: Week 3 vs Cardinals:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/3-out-with-chris-spielman-week-3-vs-cardinals


Posted by LionsFan at 5:38 AM 0 comments

Monday, September 28, 2020

Afternoon Lions Links for Monday 9-28-20

Articles:

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

O'HARA'S MONDAY COUNTDOWN: Stafford keeps his cool on final drive:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-monday-countdown-stafford-keeps-his-cool-on-final-drive

Jeff Okudah joins Lions' interception hat trick against Kyler Murray:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/jeff-okudah-joins-lions-interception-hat-trick-against-kyler-murray.html

Snap counts: Former first-round Lions LB Jarrad Davis falls to bottom of rotation in win:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/snap-counts-former-first-round-lions-lb-jarrad-davis-falls-to-bottom-of-rotation-in-win.html

Top free-agent signing Halapoulivaati Vaitai struggles in surprise move to guard for Lions:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/top-free-agent-signing-halapoulivaati-vaitai-struggles-in-surprise-move-to-guard-for-lions.html

The Lions say they are tired of being disrespected. Finally they played like it.:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/the-lions-say-they-are-tired-of-being-disrespected-finally-they-played-like-it.html



For the first time in a while, Detroit Lions' defense offers a glimmer of hope for the future:  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36893/for-the-first-time-in-a-while-detroit-lions-defense-offers-a-glimmer-of-hope-for-the-future



Matt Patricia Says Lions' Battling 'Here We Go Again' Mentality:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/matt-patricia-says-team-needs-new-mentality

Rookie Snap Count Observations: D'Andre Swift Barely Plays:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-rookie-snap-count-observations

Okudah Admits Cardinals' 'High-Octane' Offense Exhausted Him:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jeff-okudah-admits-cardinals-offense-exhausted-him

'We Set Our Bar High': Players on Lions' Defense Demanding Respect:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-defense-demands-respect


Snap counts: Tracy Walker doesn’t leave the field, Jarrad Davis barely sees it:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2020/9/28/21459593/detroit-lions-week-3-snap-counts-tracy-walker-jarrad-davis-arizona-cardinals



Jack Fox is a punting samurai, slaying foes with precision and honor:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2020/9/28/21459264/jack-fox-punter-punting-all-star-detroit-lions

Grades:

Week 3 report card: Lions coaches have much-needed, bounce-back game:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2020/9/28/21459408/detroit-lions-week-3-report-card-arizona-cardinals-grades

Detroit Lions' Week 3 Offensive Grades:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-week-3-offensive-grades

Detroit Lions' Defensive Grades: Jarrad Davis' Role Decreased:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onepride-plus/detroit-lions-week-three-grades-defense
Posted by LionsFan at 2:58 PM 0 comments

Morning Lions Links for Monday 9-28-20

Articles:

FOUR DOWNS: Defense picks off Murray three times in win over Cardinals:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/four-downs-defense-picks-off-murray-three-times-in-win-over-cardinals

Inside the locker room: Kenny Golladay thankful for chance on top-shelf touchdown catch in return:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/inside-the-locker-room-kenny-golladay-thankful-for-chance-on-top-shelf-touchdown-catch-in-return.html

Headbutts and blackouts: Matt Prater celebrates another game-winner for Detroit:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/headbutts-and-blackouts-matt-prater-celebrates-another-game-winner-for-detroit.html





Lions go ‘Dagger Time’: 5 late plays that sealed Detroit’s victory over Arizona:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2020/9/27/21459263/5-late-plays-sealed-detroit-lions-victory-over-cardinals

Lions able to execute in 'Dagger Time' for first win of season:  https://www.wxyz.com/sports/lions-able-to-execute-in-dagger-time-for-first-win-of-season

$.10 After 2020 NFL Week 3 (Detroit broke into the win column in Arizona thanks to a terrible game from both Cardinals QB Kyler Murray (3 INTs) and coach Kliff Kingsbury. Force-feeding KeeSean Johnson instead of throwing to Larry Fitzgerald (1 catch, 0 yards) or DeAndre Hopkins in the fourth quarter was a baffling course of events from Arizona’s offense. This outcome made the Lions fan in me extremely happy but did wipe out my survivor fantasy team. I’m okay with that):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3284/$10-After-2020-NFL-Week-3

Video:

SportsWorks - 9-27-20 -- Dan, Wojo & Birchie talk Lions win, Tigers end of season, Wings trade & college football:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/855108
Posted by LionsFan at 5:39 AM 0 comments

Sunday, September 27, 2020

Evening Lions Links for Sunday 9-27-20

Articles:

O'HARA'S BURNING QUESTIONS: How important was Golladay's return?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-burning-questions-how-important-was-golladay-s-return

RECAP: Lions at Cardinals:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/recap-lions-at-cardinals-prater-stafford-okudah

Quick observations: Lions bend, finally don’t break in buzzer-beating win against Arizona:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/quick-observations-lions-bend-finally-dont-break-in-buzzer-beating-win-against-arizona.html




Finally! Lions edge Cards, 26-23, to snap 11-game skid:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/09/27/detroit-lions-score-arizona-cardinals/3553907001/



Five things to know about Lions’ 26-23 win at Arizona:  https://lionslowdown.com/2020/09/28/five-things-to-know-about-lions-26-23-win-at-arizona/



Lions snap 11-game losing streak, beat Cardinals 26-23:  https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401220343

Mike Rothstein's Halftime Observations (The Lions have shown some life in the middle of the desert. Linebacker Jamie Collins, in particular, has been active with a pressure to force one Kyler Murray interception and intercepting Murray himself, helping Detroit to a 17-13 lead over Arizona at halftime. The offense has also looked largely in rhythm with WR Kenny Golladay back. Golladay has a touchdown and Detroit has relied on Adrian Peterson, who is the only Detroit running back with a carry so far. D'Andre Swift has one reception.):  https://www.espn.com/espn/now?nowId=21-41100501-4

Lions break a big slump with two INTs in the 1st half vs. the Cardinals:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/27/detroit-lions-interceptions-kyler-murray-week-3/

Watch: Jeff Okudah gets his first career INT on a great play:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/27/lions-cb-jeff-okudah-first-career-interception-video/


Lions' 11-Game Losing Streak Ends with 26-23 Victory over Cardinals:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-defeat-cardinals


Despite Calls for Demise, Lions Show Resilience in Arizona:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-show-grit-in-victory-over-cardinals




NFL Week 3 PFF ReFocused: Detroit Lions 26, Arizona Cardinals 23:  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2020-week-3-pff-refocused-detroit-lions-26-arizona-cardinals-23


NFL Week 3: What we learned from Sunday's games (Detroit Lions 26, Arizona Cardinals 23: 1) What a showing by Detroit's defense against one of the NFL's hottest teams. After failing to record a takeaway in the first two weeks, DC Cory Undlin's group came away with three and provided the spark that helped Detroit snap an 11-game losing streak. The first came on the Cardinals' opening drive after linebacker Jamie Collins pressured Kyler Murray to fling an errant pass that landed in safety Duron Harmon's hands. Collins recorded a pick of his own in the second quarter after jumping the route on a short pass intended for Larry Fitzgerald, who finished with zero receiving yards for the first time since 2004. Rookie CB Jeff Okudah also played well in his second start and earned his first career pick.  2) A career-high tying three INTs provided the biggest blemish on Murray's box score, but his never-quit attitude shined through. He managed to keep Arizona competitive, completing 65.7% of his passes for 270 yards and two TDs, one of which gave the Cardinals the lead going into the fourth. He also rushed five times for 29 yards and a shifty one-yard scamper into the end zone. Tough games like this are par for the course for young QBs still learning the league, but it'll be interesting to see how he recovers now that the hype train has lost a little steam. Save for the game's final drive, the defense also deserves a mention for its effort. The solid play continued with four sacks and six tackles for a loss while holding Detroit to 2-of-6 in the red zone.  3) After missing the first two weeks with a hamstring injury, Kenny Golladay (6/57/1) made his long-awaited return a triumphant one. The 6-foot-4 wideout came up big for Matthew Stafford numerous times, including on the game's final series. Stafford went 4-for-4 to end the game with his biggest completions going to Golladay for 11 yards and Marvin Jones for 20 to set up Matt Prater's 39-yard game-winner as the clock expired. Although the Lions had trouble punching the ball into the end zone, Stafford turned in a fine day and earned the 'W,' as he finished 22-of-31 (71%) for 270 yards and two scores.  -- Jelani Scott):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-week-3-what-we-learned-from-sunday-s-games

Takeaways: Eagles pass on FG try, settle for tie (Lions Get Takeaway! No, Lions Get Takeaways!: It was their second taste of Kyler Murray, and they had his number with three interceptions and a potential fourth that hit safety Duron Harmon in the chest. Detroit didn’t have a takeaway in their first two games of 2020, and before Sunday had only one multi-takeaway game in their last 13.  Regrets - D’Andre Swift: Among the rookie running back’s limited snaps was a Matthew Stafford pass hitting him in the back because he didn’t realize he was hot. One day he’ll look back on his first three NFL games and laugh. Maybe.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/09/27/week-3-takeaways-josh-allen-wild-ride-foles-in-trubisky-out-falcons-blow-it-again

NFL Winners and Losers: Dave Gettleman, Joe Judge, Daniel Jones already under pressure after Giants' loss (WINNERS - Detroit Lions: The Lions’ season would have been on life support at 0-3. And they had to travel to take on the red-hot Arizona Cardinals.  The Lions got it done. Matthew Stafford shook off a holding penalty that wiped out a pretty touchdown in the final two minutes, and drove his team back into Cardinals territory to set up a game-winning field goal as time expired for a 26-23 victory. The Lions haven’t figured everything out, but 1-2 is a lot better looking than 0-3.  Detroit still has talent and their offense looks a lot better with Kenny Golladay back from injury. They might have saved their season with an upset win on Sunday.):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-winners-and-losers-dave-gettleman-joe-judge-daniel-jones-already-under-pressure-after-giants-loss-201948349.html


Grades:


CBS Grades (Lions - Grade:  A-.  Going on the road and beating one of the hottest teams in football isn't easy, but that's exactly what the Lions did in this game. This win happened because the Lions defense was able to get the best of Kyler Murray by forcing him into throwing three interceptions. Although Murray was still able to put up big numbers, the turnovers ended up being the difference in the game as they led to 10 points for Detroit. Offensively, the Lions didn't do anything flashy, but they also didn't make any mistakes. The return of Kenny Golladay was big for Detroit as he caught six passes for 57 yards and a touchdown.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-3-grades-bears-get-an-a-for-benching-trubisky-in-win-eagles-get-f-for-tie-with-bengals/

Video:

Lions vs. Cardinals highlights | Week 3:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/lions-vs-cardinals-highlights-week-3

Matt Prater drills 39-yard FG for walk-off win:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/matt-prater-drills-39-yard-fg-for-walk-off-win

Lions regain lead as Golladay elevates for acrobatic TD in season debut:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/lions-regain-lead-as-golladay-elevates-for-acrobatic-td-in-season-debut

Lions rub routes to free up Jesse James for fourth-down TD:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/lions-rub-routes-to-free-up-jesse-james-for-fourth-down-td

T.J. Hockenson carves up Cards' secondary with 27-yard catch and run:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/t-j-hockenson-carves-up-cards-secondary-with-27-yard-catch-and-run

Golladay reaches back to corral tough third-down catch for 19 yards:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/golladay-reaches-back-to-corral-tough-third-down-catch-for-19-yards

Stop, spin and sprint! Vintage AP shows up on impressive 27-yard burst:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/stop-spin-and-sprint-vintage-ap-shows-up-on-impressive-27-yard-burst

Jeff Okudah gets payback on Kyler by undercutting throw for first career INT:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/jeff-okudah-gets-payback-on-kyler-by-undercutting-throw-for-first-career-int

Jeff Okudah picks up TFL as Lions sniff out Cards' trick play:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/jeff-okudah-picks-up-tfl-as-lions-sniff-out-cards-trick-play

Romeo Okwara bull rushes off edge for sack on Kyler Murray:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/romeo-okwara-bull-rushes-off-edge-for-sack-on-kyler-murray

Jamie Collins swipes Kyler Murray's pass for Detroit's second INT of day:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/jamie-collins-swipes-kyler-s-pass-for-detroit-s-second-int-of-day

Duron Harmon locates Kyler's pass for his first Lions INT:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/duron-harmon-locates-kyler-s-pass-for-his-first-lions-int
Posted by LionsFan at 9:39 PM 0 comments

Afternoon Lions Links for Sunday 9-27-20

Articles:




5 Questions with Howard Balzer of SI AllCardinals:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/5-questions-howard-balzer-si-all-cardinals


What you need to know for the Detroit Lions at Arizona Cardinals in Week 3:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/27/what-you-need-to-know-detroit-lions-arizona-cardinals-week-3/

Updating Vegas Watch: Lions hold steady as 5.5-point underdogs at Cardinals in Week 3:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/27/updating-vegas-watch-detroit-lions-underdogs-arizona-cardinals-week-3/

Week 3 Preview: The Josh Allen Way vs. the Goff Formula, Lamar’s Arm Can Beat K.C. (4. The Lions’ media darlings-ish status this summer was due to three factors: (1) The underappreciated greatness of Matthew Stafford, (2) the anticipated crappiness of the NFC North, and (3) the fact that, in Year 3 of the Matt Patricia era, there’s no way the defense could be any worse than it was in 2019. Or so we thought.  Two games into the 2020 season, there are alarming signs that a further regression of the Lions defense could be unfolding. The pass rush remains, in the words of Clay Aiken, invisible (that’s just one word, but it’s the song title, so according to my lawyer the reference still counts). Detroit seemed to finally catch a break last week in Green Bay when the Packers lost top weapon Davante Adams to a hamstring injury. Instead, it became a showcase for the Lions’ inability to tackle, as they allowed 248 rushing yards and 8.0 per carry on 31 designed Packers runs (even if you take out Aaron Jones’s 75-yard TD run to open the second half—and that’s a heck of a thing to take out—they still allowed 5.8 per attempt). The Packers had scoring drives of 69 and 74 yards in their only two meaningful possessions after losing Adams.  The Lions might have been a rookie RB’s drop away from beating Chicago in the opener. But even if D’Andre Swift hangs onto that ball, it’s impossible to ignore the defense’s culpability in allowing three fourth-quarter touchdowns to a Mitchell Trubisky-led offense, the kind of thing that should immediately trigger a point-shaving investigation.  For Patricia and GM Bob Quinn, the past calendar year has been defined by the GM bringing in the coach’s “guys.” That’s how you end up dealing Quandre Diggs for pennies on the dollar and trading a No. 1 corner in Darius Slay for two mid-round draft picks. But instead of those guys starting to turn things around, they’re finding new ways to fail on a weekly basis.  On Sunday, the Lions travel to Arizona, site of last year’s opener, to face a Cardinals offense that is very good. But it’s also one they prepared for in the past, and one that they held in check until they let a lead slip away late in a season-opening tie.  If top receiver Kenny Golladay is back, Stafford no longer has to drag this offense to respectability, and this Cardinals secondary is ripe for the picking downfield. If the Lions aren’t competitive for a second straight week, and/or the defense finds new ways to embarrass itself, what’s the point in continuing to take the franchise down this path?):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/09/27/week-3-preview-josh-allen-jared-goff-contrasts-lamar-better-equipped-for-chiefs

Articles from Opposing Teams Media:

As Lions Visit, Undefeated Cardinals Refuse To Be Crowned:  https://www.azcardinals.com/news/as-lions-visit-undefeated-cardinals-refuse-to-be-crowned


Cardinals Need to Cut Turnovers, Penalties to Avoid Trap-Game Loss:  https://www.si.com/nfl/cardinals/news/avoid-turnovers-penalties-win-trap-game

2021 NFL Draft:

K.J. Costello makes SEC history as Mississippi State upsets LSU:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/09/26/k-j-costello-mississippi-state-lsu-upset-nfl-draft/
Posted by LionsFan at 3:21 PM 0 comments

Saturday, September 26, 2020

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 9-27-20

Articles:

Lions CB Jeff Okudah likely heading for another start after Desmond Trufant ruled out:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/rookie-cb-jeff-okudah-likely-heading-for-another-start-after-desmond-trufant-ruled-out-by-lions.html

Lions LB Jamie Collins reportedly fined $35,096 for making contact with referee in Week 1:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/lions-lb-jamie-collins-reportedly-fined-35096-for-making-contact-with-referee-in-week-1.html

Lions have no choice: They must beat the Cardinals:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/09/26/detroit-lions-arizona-cardinals-kickoff-kyler-murray/3524214001/


Five things to watch as Lions face Cards, look for first win:  https://lionslowdown.com/2020/09/26/five-things-to-watch-as-lions-face-cards-look-for-first-win/


All Lions Mailbag: Best-Case Scenarios, Reasons for Hope:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-mailbag-best-case-scenarios-reasons-for-hope


Through Two Games, Stafford Has Only Completed Two Deep Pass Attempts:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/stafford-completed-two-deep-passes-this-season

Detroit Lions will not elevate any practice squad players for Week 3:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/26/lions-elevate-active-roster-week-3/

The Honolulu Blueprint: Keys to a Lions victory over the Cardinals in Week 3:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/the-honolulu-blueprint-keys-to-a-lions-victory-over-the-cardinals-in-week-3/

Lions vs. Cardinals series has produced some memorable games:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-vs-cardinals-series-has-produced-some-memorable-games/

Behind Enemy Lines with Cardinals Wire to break down Week 3:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/26/lions-cardinals-matchup-week-3-behind-enemy-lines/

Articles from Opposing Teams Media:

Running With Kyler Murray, And Friday Before The Lions:  https://www.azcardinals.com/news/running-with-kyler-murray-and-friday-before-the-lions

Andy Isabella Gets His Chance As Christian Kirk Out Against Lions:  https://www.azcardinals.com/news/andy-isabella-gets-his-chance-as-christian-kirk-out-against-lions


Devon Kennard Settles In With Cardinals After Lions Let Him Go:  https://www.azcardinals.com/news/devon-kennard-settles-in-with-cardinals-after-lions-let-him-go

High Alert: Cardinals Prepping For Strong Lions Passing Game:  https://www.azcardinals.com/news/high-alert-cardinals-prepping-for-strong-lions-passing-game

Cardinals, Kyler Murray Have Come Far As Rematch With Lions Looms:  https://www.azcardinals.com/news/cardinals-kyler-murray-have-come-far-rematch-with-lions-looms



Arizona Cardinals WR KeeSean Johnson Hopes for Big Role Sunday:  https://www.si.com/nfl/cardinals/news/keesean-johnson-big-role-sunday

Two Areas Where the Cardinals are Different This Time Against Detroit:  https://www.si.com/nfl/cardinals/news/arizona-vs-lions-two-ways-different-from-2019

'Like Warp Speed': Kelvin Beachum Describes Cardinals' Offense:  https://www.si.com/nfl/cardinals/news/kelvin-beachum-offense-warp-speed

'Amazing': Lions Head Coach Matt Patricia Describes Kyler Murray:  https://www.si.com/nfl/cardinals/news/kyler-murray-amazing-says-matt-patricia

Numbers to Know: History Can be Made When the Cardinals Face Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/cardinals/news/numbers-to-know-history-to-be-made-cardinals-lions

'Competitor' Kennard Relishing Chance to Face Former Lions Team:  https://www.si.com/nfl/cardinals/news/devon-kennard-reflects-detroit-lions-tenure


Week 3 Preview: Will Kyler Murray and the Cardinals hold off the Lions and remain undefeated?:  https://cardswire.usatoday.com/lists/arizona-cardinals-detroit-lions-week-3-prevoew/




Cardinals face high-caliber passing attack led by Lions’ Matthew Stafford:  https://arizonasports.com/story/2402849/cardinals-face-high-caliber-passing-attack-led-by-lions-matthew-stafford/

Predictions:

Week 3 (Not quite done.  I still have a couple more to add):  http://captainbluelionslinks.blogspot.com/2020/09/week-3-predictions.html

2021 NFL Draft:

Florida football in fine hands with Kyle Pitts, Kyle Trask in 2020:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/florida-football-in-fine-hands-with-kyle-pitts-kyle-trask-in-2020/

Boston College TE Hunter Long is a top 5 2021 tight end:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/boston-college-te-hunter-long-top-5-2021-tight-end/

Florida TE Kyle Pitts goes off on Ole Miss, catches 4 TD passes:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/09/26/kyle-pitts-florida-ole-miss-highlights-nfl-draft/

Posted by LionsFan at 8:54 PM 0 comments

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 9-26-20

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: Golladay hopes to return, listed as questionable for Sunday:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-golladay-hopes-to-return-listed-at-questionable-for-sunday

WR Kenny Golladay’s potential return could bring back fantasy football relevance to Lions:   https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/wr-kenny-golladays-potential-return-should-bring-back-fantasy-football-relevance-to-lions.html

Lions' Kenny Golladay, Halapoulivaati Vaitai listed as questionable against Cardinals:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/lions-kenny-golladay-halapoulivaati-vaitai-listed-as-questionable-against-cardinals.html

Struggling Lions S Will Harris: ‘I’m trying my best to do what’s asked of me’:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/struggling-lions-s-will-harris-im-trying-my-best-to-do-whats-asked-of-me.html



Which NFL head coaches are on the hot seat in 2020? (Detroit Lions Matt Patricia:  You can bring the talent from New England, but if Belichick isn’t a part of it, game over. The Lions are learning that the hard way as things continue to blow up in their face with Patricia. Granted, Matthew Stafford has been without Kenny Golladay, thus limiting the passing game. What’s the defense’s excuse this time?  The Lions have allowed an average of 425 yards per game, and one game played host to Mitch Trubisky. Their run defense is a league-low after letting Aaron Jones steal the show Sunday afternoon. It’s year three for Patrica, and things aren’t getting better. In fact, they continue to head south. He might not be the first to go, but he’ll likely be heading out no later than Black Monday.  Hot seat meter: 9):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-coaches-hot-seat-meter-top-head-coach-replacements-2020/

QB Index: There's a new No. 1! Plus, Josh Allen hits top 5 (17. Stafford:  Stafford started strong in a ball-control attack, but sorely missed go-to target Kenny Golladay (hamstring) as the offense stagnated over the final three quarters in Green Bay. He sealed his team's fate with an ugly pick-six in the middle of the third quarter, throwing a wayward floater in the shadow of his own goal post. While Detroit's defense has deeply ingrained issues up front and in the secondary, the offense remains a good bet to turn its fortunes around with Golladay trending toward a return.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/qb-index-week-3-russell-wilson-aaron-rodgers-vying-for-no-1-josh-allen-hits-top-

NFL QB rankings 1-32: Carson Wentz, Drew Brees fall; Russell Wilson, Aaron Rodgers, Cam Newton rise into Week 3 (19. Matthew Stafford, Lions (9):  Stafford was having the best season of his career before his back injury cost him the second half of 2019. Unfortunately, without go-to wide receiver Kenny Golladay early, he's had a rough start, down to rating 83.2 at 7.2 yards per attempt. At 0-2, he needs pick up the pace fast for a team that doesn't look like it will give him consistent running game or defensive help.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-quarterback-rankings-carson-wentz-drew-brees-russell-wilson-aaron-rodgers-cam-newton/1v0wk3b5qav5z18cignb717d8c



2021 NFL Draft:


Walker Little eyes NFL Draft despite Pac-12 return, sources tell Tony Pauline:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/walker-little-focused-nfl-draft-despite-pac-12-return-sources-tell-pauline/

Posted by LionsFan at 6:15 AM 0 comments

Friday, September 25, 2020

Afternoon Lions Links for Friday 9-25-20

Articles:

10 QUESTIONS WITH TWENTYMAN: What do Lions need to do to get a win in Arizona?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-questions-with-twentyman-what-do-lions-need-to-do-to-get-a-win-in-arizona

WR Kenny Golladay’s potential return could bring back fantasy football relevance to Lions:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/wr-kenny-golladays-potential-return-should-bring-back-fantasy-football-relevance-to-lions.html

Matt Patricia trying to figure out how to manufacture more pass rush for Lions:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/09/matt-patricia-trying-to-figure-out-how-to-manufacture-more-pass-rush-for-lions.html



Jack Fox is the NFL's top-graded punter through two weeks:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/25/lions-punter-jack-fox-top-pff-grade/

The Vikings have even worse odds to win the NFC North than the Lions:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/09/25/nfl-north-playoff-odds-vikings-lions-cousins/


Predictions:

Week 3 (it's not done.  I still have more to add):  http://captainbluelionslinks.blogspot.com/2020/09/week-3-predictions.html
Posted by LionsFan at 2:02 PM 0 comments
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