Tuesday, August 31, 2021

Afternoon Lions Links for Tuesday 8-31-21

Articles:

With no trade suitors, Jahlani Tavai reaches fitting end with Lions:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/jahlani-tavai-sees-lions-career-come-to-fitting-end



Detroit Lions Trinity Benson NFL Scouting Report Denver Broncos:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/what-lions-are-getting-in-wide-receiver-trinity-benson


Pros and Cons of Lions Bringing Back RB Jason Huntley:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/pros-and-cons-of-lions-bringing-back-jason-huntley



NFL: Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions
Report: Detroit Lions waiving Jahlani Tavai, Craig Reynolds, Bruce Hector:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/31/22650070/detroit-lions-waiving-jahlani-tavai-craig-reynolds-bruce-hector


Posted by LionsFan at 1:30 PM 0 comments

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 8-31-21

Articles:

‘Why not us:’ Jared Goff shrugs off concerns about offense, Detroit Lions’ fate:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/why-not-us-jared-goff-shrugs-off-concerns-about-offense-detroit-lions-fate.html

Lions’ Trey Flowers feeling more natural in evolving role on new-look defense:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/lions-trey-flowers-feeling-more-natural-in-evolving-role-on-new-look-defense.html




Dan Campbell: 'There’s gonna be some guys that are gonna be on our team that aren’t even in the building yet”:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/30/detroit-lions-dan-campbell-roster-decisions-looking-for-players-outside-the-team/

Decker on Sewell’s struggles: He’s going to be ‘really good,’ just needs reps:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/30/22649030/taylor-decker-penei-sewell-struggles-really-good-just-needs-reps

Trey Lance has small “chip” in his finger, will miss about a week:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2021/08/30/trey-lance-has-small-chip-in-his-finger-will-miss-about-a-week/

NFL Preseason Week 3 Rookie Report: Grades, snaps, game takeaways and more (PENEI SEWELL AND JA’MARR CHASE BOTH FAILED TO IMPROVE:  Both Sewell and Chase were widely considered “generational” talents at their respective positions, but they played far below expectations this preseason.  The Lions’ tackle earned a 35.3 PFF grade against the Colts, bringing his grade for the preseason to 38.6 — 175th of 183 rookie tackles in exhibition games since 2015 and the worst mark among first-rounders.  It’s clear the 20-year-old is rusty after not playing in 20 months. Don’t panic yet, but don’t expect Sewell to have a fantastic rookie campaign.  The yips also continued for the Bengals receiver. After dropping all three of his targets in preseason Week 2, Chase dropped the one target he saw in Week 3.  Similar to Sewell, it’s nowhere near the time to panic. He didn’t run even a dozen routes in the preseason and also hasn’t played in a game since LSU’s national title game in January of 2020. It’s clearly not ideal to have your No. 5 overall pick going through something like this, but as Chase said himself, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-preseason-week-3-rookie-report-grades-snaps-game-takeaways-and-more

2022 NFL Draft:

Highest-graded players through Week 0 of the 2021 college football season:  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-highest-graded-players-week-0-2021-season

Top 5 HBCU performances from Week 0 of the college football season:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-5-hbcu-performances-cfbwk-0/

Video:


Lions make cuts; Campbell on tough decisions:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/972549
Posted by LionsFan at 4:16 AM 0 comments

Monday, August 30, 2021

Afternoon Lions Links for Monday 8-30-21

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: Boyle requires surgery on broken thumb:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-boyle-requires-surgery-on-broken-thumb-crosby-perriman

Ex-lacrosse pro Tom Kennedy has ‘inside track’ on Detroit Lions roster spot:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/wr-tom-kennedy-has-inside-track-on-detroit-lions-roster-spot.html

Lions QB Tim Boyle to undergo surgery for broken thumb: ‘He may be out a little while’:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/lions-qb-tim-boyle-to-undergo-surgery-for-broken-thumb-he-may-be-out-a-little-while.html

Tyrell Crosby among 9 players cut by Detroit Lions: ‘We didn’t feel like he was one of the best guys’:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/tyrell-crosby-among-latest-wave-of-players-cut-by-detroit-lions.html





Lions roster cutdowns: Breaking down the decisions to cut Breshad Perriman and Mike Ford:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/30/lions-roster-cutdowns-breaking-down-decision-cut-breshad-perriman-mike-ford/

Cornerback Jeff Okudah Limited at Monday Practice:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jeff-okudah-limited-monday-practice


The Detroit Lions are in receiver hell; how do they get out?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/30/22647593/detroit-lions-wide-receiver-problem


VIDEO:

Posted by LionsFan at 1:30 PM 0 comments

Morning Lions Links for Monday 8-30-21

Articles:

O'HARA: What we learned from Preseason Week 3:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-what-we-learned-from-preseason-week-3-campbell-blough-jefferson


Why the Lions winless preseason shouldn't worry fans (too much):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/29/lions-winless-preseason-fan-concerns-regular-season/


Columnist Ponders Bold, Wild Lions Trade Ahead of 2021 Season:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/detroit-news-columnist-ponders-wild-detroit-lions-trade


Lions vs. Colts report card: Grading the defensive depth ahead of roster cuts:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/29/22647185/detroit-lions-report-card-defense-indianapolis-colts-preseason-week-3



Lions roster cuts mailbag: How will the Lions handle their surplus of DL talent?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/29/22646981/detroit-lions-roster-cuts-mailbag-surplus-defensive-line-talent

Biggest snubs, most overrated and underrated players from the NFL’s 2021 Top 100 players (Most Overrated - TE T.J. Hockenson, Detroit Lions (Rank: 93):  This ranking places Hockenson as the fourth-best tight end in the league in the players’ eyes. While Hockenson made strides in his 2020 sophomore season, he didn't play at a top-100 level from start to finish. He finished ninth at the position in PFF grade (75.5) and tied for 12th in yards per route run generated (1.57). When lined up in the slot or out wide, Hockenson’s play took an even steeper hit, as his 67.2 receiving grade fell short of the 50th percentile at the position and was double-digits lower than Kelce, Kittle and Darren Waller — the only other tight ends to make the top 100.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-biggest-snubs-most-overrated-and-underrated-players-from-the-nfls-2021-top-100-players

2022 NFL Draft:

Which 2022 quarterback prospects could break out in the 2021 college football season?:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/which-2022-quarterback-prospects-could-breakout-in-the-2021-college-football-season/

Posted by LionsFan at 4:20 AM 0 comments

Sunday, August 29, 2021

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 8-29-21

Articles:

TIM AND MIKE: Preseason Week 3 observations:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/tim-and-mike-preseason-week-3-observations-sewell-parker-boyle

Snap counts: LB Anthony Pittman leads defense, special teams in reps to end preseason:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/snap-counts-lb-anthony-pittman-leads-defense-special-teams-in-reps-to-end-preseason.html



Lions top performers from PFF vs Colts and preseason recap:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/28/lions-top-performers-pff-vs-colts-preseason-grades/


Lions roster bubble watch: 5 players who revamped their roster stock:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-roster-bubble-watch-5-players-helped-roster-stock/


Lions Penei Sewell Lowest PFF Graded Offensive Player in Preseason Finale:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/penei-sewell-lowest-graded-offensive-player-pff


David Blough: 'It’s Frustrating When You Can’t Lead Team to Victory':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-david-blough-frustrated-he-couldnt-lead-team-to-victory

Dan Campbell Reveals Where Lions' Defense Is Lacking:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/dan-campbell-reveals-biggest-concerns-in-secondary

Lions vs. Colts report card: Grading the offensive depth ahead of roster cuts:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/28/22645849/detroit-lions-report-card-offense-indianapolis-colts-preseason-week-3

Detroit Lions Bubble Watch: Predicting the final roster spots on offense:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/28/22645270/detroit-lions-bubble-watch-predicting-final-roster-spots-offense



Lions vs. Colts preseason stock report: The running back battle heats up:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/28/22645068/lions-colts-preseason-stock-report-running-back-battle-heats-up

Video: 

Posted by LionsFan at 4:33 AM 0 comments

Saturday, August 28, 2021

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 8-28-21

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: Campbell talks roster decisions, Boyle injury:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-campbell-talks-roster-decisions-boyle-injury

Stock report: Who’s trending up, who’s not for Detroit Lions ahead of final roster cuts:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/stock-report-whos-trending-up-whos-not-for-detroit-lions-ahead-of-final-roster-cuts.html

With roster cuts looming, Detroit Lions could lose QB Tim Boyle to thumb injury for ‘some time’:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/with-roster-cuts-looming-detroit-lions-could-lose-qb-tim-boyle-to-thumb-injury-for-some-time.html

Lions’ Austin Bryant ready to put injury history in the past after strong finish to preseason:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/lions-austin-bryant-ready-to-put-injury-history-in-the-past-after-strong-finish-to-preseason.html

Boyle injures throwing thumb, paving way for Blough to be Lions' backup QB:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2021/08/28/detroit-lions-qb-tim-boyle-injury-david-blough/5628327001/

Lions preparing to potentially be without backup QB Boyle:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2021/08/27/lions-preparing-potentially-without-backup-qb-boyle/5628377001/

Studs and Duds from Detroit Lions' 2021 Preseason Finale:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/lions-studs-and-duds-preseason-finale


Lions backup QB Tim Boyle suffers injury in preseason finale, expected to miss time:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/27/22645464/detroit-lions-qb-tim-boyle-suffers-injury-preseason-finale

Unsung hero of the week: Jermar Jefferson jumps into RB3 spot:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/27/22645521/unsung-hero-jermar-jefferson-jumps-into-rb3

NFL Preseason Week 3 Game Recap: Indianapolis Colts 27, Detroit Lions 17:  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-preseason-week-3-game-recap-indianapolis-colts-27-detroit-lions-17

What we learned from Friday's preseason games (Colts at Lions: 1.  Colts cashing in. Excellent last season, the Colts' defense is going to get a boost up front with the addition of rookie first-rounder Kwity Paye. The 21st overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft zoomed past Lions left tackle Tyrell Crosby on the fourth play from scrimmage Friday for a strip sack. Paye's a playmaker who forecasts to be an instant impact-maker for Indy. In 17 plays, he had three tackles and his second sack in as many preseason outings. Plenty of Paye days and questionable puns such as that lie ahead for the Colts.  2.  Forgettable preseason for Perriman. Long handcuffed by problems dropping the ball, Lions wide receiver Breshad Perriman had a couple passes he likely should've hauled in Friday. Instead, over two preseason outings, he's caught just one ball for 6 yards (which came against the Colts) on five targets in 45 plays. With the dearth of talent at wide receiver for the Lions, it would seem unlikely that Perriman, who was signed to a one-year deal this offseason, would be cut, but stranger things have happened.
NFL.  Research: In the competition for the Colts' QB2 spot, Jacob Eason finished the preseason completing 41 of 62 passes (66%) for 389 passing yards, no passing touchdowns or interceptions and an 83.3 passer rating. Sam Ehlinger, who left Friday's game with a knee injury, was 21 for 31 (67.7%) for 288 passing yards, no TDs, 3 INT and a 57.6 passer rating.): https://www.nfl.com/news/2021-nfl-preseason-week-3-what-we-learned-from-friday-s-games

NFL preseason Week 3 takeaways from every game (Colts 27, Lions 17:  Indianapolis trailed 17-9 through three quarters before rallying to defeat the Lions in Detroit, 27-17. Deon Jackson scored two fourth quarter touchdowns that included a 42-yard run serving as the game's final touchdown. Jackson's first touchdown plus his two-point conversion run tied the score with 11:32 remaining. Curtis Bolton's interception interception moments later set up Rodrigo Blankenship's go-ahead field goal. Colts quarterback Jacob Eason went 10-of-14 for 74 yards, while Lions quarterback David Blough went 13-of-21 for 117 yards with an interception. Indy also lost QB Sam Ehlinger, who showcased play-making ability on a scramble and deep ball, to a potentially serious knee injury.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-preseason-week-3-takeaways-deon-jacksons-two-touchdowns-lift-colts-derrick-gore-makes-case-for-chiefs/

Six NFL teams headed for ugly 2021 season: Giants, Texans among those with suspect rosters, rough offseasons (Detroit Lions:  Several evaluators pointed to Detroit as the next-worst roster going right now. One front office exec whose team faced the Lions this preseason told me the competition was so poor it was hard to draw conclusions from it. "They don't have players," he said. "It's bad. Good thing (coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes) got six-year deals. It'll take three years just to dig out of this." There is no history of this team sustaining any real measure of success for ages, primary ownership keeps getting shuffled around and game-management could prove to be a problem for this group, too. They are going to give up a ton of points and offensive coaches who I trust believe Jared Goff is really going to struggle without Sean McVay in his ear. "They will be in the market for a QB in 2022," as one exec put it.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/six-nfl-teams-headed-for-ugly-2021-season-giants-texans-among-those-with-suspect-rosters-rough-offseasons/

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE
TOP MOMENTS: NFL PRESEASON (Colts at Lions - Fighting back:  The Lions' offense was not deterred by the early turnover, responding with a 14-play, 75-yard drive that ended with a touchdown.  The score came courtesy of a 15-yard Quintez Cephus reception.  Magic act:  Is that Sam Ehlinger at quarterback for the Colts, or is that Houdini?  This disappearing act to avoid the sack and set up a long completion makes you wonder.  Quarterback swap, same results:  The Colts switched to Brett Hundley at QB in the fourth quarter, and he produced highlight plays just like Ehlinger before him.  Hundley rolled outside the pocket to complete a touchdown pass before the Colts converted their two-point attempt to tie the game 17-17.  Closing the door:  The Colts then ran off 10 more points to seal a 27-17 lead with this 41-yard touchdown run by Deon Jackson.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/preseason-top-moments-indianapolis-colts-detroit-lions-philadelphia-eagles-new-york-jets-minnesota-vikings-kansas-city-chiefs-pittsburgh-steelers-carolina-panthers

2022 NFL Draft:


10 NFL draft prospects you need to know: Liberty QB Malik Willis:  https://sports.yahoo.com/10-nfl-draft-prospects-you-need-to-know-liberty-qb-malik-willis-200835030.html

Top wide receivers in the 2022 NFL Draft include Garrett Wilson, David Bell:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-top-wide-receivers-justyn-ross-chris-olave/

Top defensive ends in the 2022 NFL Draft include Kayvon Thibodeaux, George Karlaftis:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-top-defensive-ends-drake-jackson-kayvon-thibodeaux/

Top tight ends in the 2022 NFL Draft include Isaiah Likely, Jalen Wydermyer:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-top-tight-ends-isaiah-likely-jalen-wydermyer/

Video:






Posted by LionsFan at 4:26 AM 0 comments

Friday, August 27, 2021

Evening Lions Links for Friday 8-27-21

Articles:


Instant observations: Detroit Lions go winless in preseason, lose QB Tim Boyle to injury too:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/instant-observations-detroit-lions-go-winless-in-preseason-lose-qb-tim-boyle-to-injury-too.html

Detroit Lions lose 27-17 to Indianapolis Colts to finish preseason winless: Live updates recap:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/live-updates-detroit-lions-host-indianapolis-colts-in-preseason-finale.html

Lions collapse in fourth vs. Colts, go winless in Dan Campbell's first preseason:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2021/08/27/detroit-lions-score-indianapolis-colts-preseason/5626087001/



Detroit Lions Indianapolis Colts Takeaways NFL Preseason:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/lions-lose-preseason-finale-to-colts

Detroit Lions Indianapolis Colts Halftime Observations:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-colts-preseason-halftime-observations



Lions backup QB Tim Boyle suffers injury to throwing hand in preseason finale:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/27/22645464/detroit-lions-qb-tim-boyle-suffers-injury-preseason-finale

Colts beat Lions 27-17, but lose QB Sam Ehlinger to injury:  https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401333581

Video:

Colts vs. Lions highlights | Preseason Week 3:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/colts-vs-lions-highlights-preseason-week-3

Godwin Igwebuike's Herculean effort nets fourth-down TD:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/highlight-igwebuike-s-second-effort-nets-fourth-down-td


David Blough or David Blaine? QB magically escapes potential TFL:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/david-blough-or-david-blaine-qb-magically-escapes-potential-tfl

Jermar Jefferson takes flight on epic hurdle in red zone:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/highlight-jefferson-takes-flight-on-epic-hurdle


Corn Elder lays out for scooping INT of Brett Hundley:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/corn-elder-lays-out-for-scooping-int-of-brett-hundley
Posted by LionsFan at 10:29 PM 0 comments

Pre-Lions Links for Friday 8-27-21

Articles:


5 bubble players to watch in Detroit Lions’ preseason finale against Colts:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/5-bubble-players-to-watch-in-detroit-lions-preseason-finale-against-colts.html


Lions' Levi Onwuzurike and Alim McNeill rank high among rookie defensive linemen:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/27/lions-levi-onwuzurike-alim-mcneill-rank-high-rookie-defensive-linemen/

5 Lions players with the most to gain in the preseason game vs. the Colts:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/5-lions-players-with-most-to-gain-preseason-colts/







Mailbag: How is the Lions’ wide receiver room going to shake out?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/27/22641498/detroit-lions-mailbag-wide-receiver-room-cuts

Reviewing all 32 first-rounders through NFL preseason Week 2 (7. OT PENEI SEWELL, DETROIT LIONS (48.3 overall | 43 snaps):  Sewell has looked nothing short of uncomfortable after switching to the right side this preseason; the depth of his sets and his hand usage are all over the place. Sewell has allowed three pressures on 27 pass-blocking snaps and just needs more reps.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-32-first-rounders-rookies-nfl-preseason-week-2-2021

Preseason Week 3: What to watch for (Colts at Lions:  Carson Wentz's health situation has raised the significance of the Colts' competition as it relates to the No. 2 quarterback. Jacob Eason will get the start on Friday night after going 16 of 27 for 132 yards in the Colts' second preseason game, a 12-10 win over the Vikings. Sam Ehlinger, who directed a game-winning drive in the Colts' preseason opener against Carolina, is also expected to get significant playing time against Detroit.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-preseason-week-3-one-thing-to-watch-in-each-game-including-joe-burrows-debut-and-ravens-run-at-history/

2021 NFL Preseason Week 3: Schedule, rookies to watch, game storylines and more:  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-players-teams-to-watch-nfl-preseason-week-3-2021

VIDEO:



Posted by LionsFan at 6:04 PM 0 comments

Morning Lions Links for Friday 8-27-21

Articles:

Lions eager to usher in new era with fans back at Ford Field: ‘I will be crawling out of my skin’:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/lions-eager-to-usher-in-new-era-with-fans-back-at-ford-field-i-will-be-crawling-out-of-my-skin.html

Ask Kyle: Thoughts on Lions’ rookies, roster cuts, greatest improvements, biggest concerns heading into finale:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/ask-kyle-thoughts-on-lions-rookies-roster-cuts-greatest-improvements-biggest-concerns-heading-into-finale.html


Dan Campbell wants to 'reward' players who both do it the right way and produce:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/26/lions-coach-dan-campbell-reward-productive-players-roster-bubble-decisions/


Campbell says Ford Field can be 'every bit of' the SuperDome – 'and then some':  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/dan-campbell-ford-field-can-be-even-better-than-superdome


Let's Be Real, How Good Will the Detroit Lions Actually Be This Year?:  https://thegame730am.com/how-good-will-detroit-lions-be/

2021 NFL Preseason, Week 3: 1 thing to watch for from all 32 teams (Colts at Lions:  The holes on the Colts' offensive line are finally starting to get filled in, a welcome sight for an offense that's also been without QB Carson Wentz in the preseason. C Ryan Kelly and G Quenton Nelson, one of the NFL's best interior tandems, returned to practice this week. Kelly could be more ready to play than Nelson, whose injury required surgery. If either of them takes the field against the Lions, expect it to be Kelly. ... A lot of eyes will be on Lions rookie Penei Sewell, who has struggled, albeit in limited action, through two preseason games. He's moving from left tackle, where he anchored the Oregon line in college, to right tackle. He opted out of the 2020 season, which could be another factor in his slow start. Coach Dan Campbell wants Sewell to get as much seasoning as possible, so don't be surprised if Sewell sees more extensive playing time against the Colts.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2021-nfl-preseason-week-3-1-thing-to-watch-for-from-all-32-teams

Predictions:

NFC North (Detroit Lions - Head Coach: Dan Campbell.  Key Man: A key man will emerge from this intriguing group during the season, but for now let's focus on second-year runner D'Andre Swift. While everything around him on offense has changed, Swift remains the constant from last season. A 2020 third-round pick, Swift provided some excitement with 10 total touchdowns and just under 900 scrimmage yards - but he has special talent and could be primed to break out.  Major Additions: Campbell made headlines with his quote: "when you knock us down, we're going to get up and on the way up, we're going to bite a kneecap off" this summer, so he and his coaching staff will certainly be in the spotlight...  On the field, it's all change. New quarterback (Jared Goff), new backfield mate for Swift (Jamaal Williams), new receiving group (Breshad Perriman, Tyrell Williams, Kalif Raymond, and fourth-round pick Amon-Ra St. Brown). It may take some time for this group to gel. It helps that they added highly-regarded offensive tackle Penei Sewell with the seventh pick in this year's draft.  NFL 2021 build-up: Injuries, trades & gossip
Trying to find 2021's NFL rookie stars
As on offense, the defense looks different too with free-agent Michael Brockers joining the interior defensive line alongside rookie third-rounder Alim McNeill, while former Saints linebacker Alex Anzalone will play.  Last Season: In their third and final season under Matt Patricia, the Lions went 5-11 (Patricia went 4-7 before he was fired in November). The experiment didn't work, as they missed the playoffs for a fourth straight year. The defense had one of the worst seasons ever - they set a franchise record for points and yards allowed (both were the third-worst marks in NFL history). It was unpleasant.  Prospects: Between a complete change of coaching staff, an overhaul of the offense, a likely downgrade at quarterback from Matthew Stafford to Goff, it's hard to see much room for improvement. Detroit need to rebuild both the roster and the culture, and that takes time.  Prediction: 4th (4-13)):  https://www.skysports.com/nfl/news/12118/12390878/nfc-north-preview-chicago-bears-detroit-lions-green-bay-packers-minnesota-vikings

2022 NFL Draft:

2022 NFL Draft: OSU WR duo sticks out in loaded Big Ten:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-big-ten-prospect-preview-ohio-states-receivers-george-karlaftis-lead-historic-conference/

VIDEO:

Inside the Den: Behind the Scenes with the Detroit Lions - Episode 6:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/inside-the-den-behind-the-scenes-with-the-detroit-lions-episode-6
Posted by LionsFan at 4:30 AM 0 comments

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Afternoon Lions Links for Thursday 8-26-21

Articles:


Detroit Lions fantasy preview and predictions: All eyes on T.J. Hockenson and D’Andre Swift:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/detroit-lions-fantasy-preview-and-predictions-all-eyes-on-tj-hockenson-and-dandre-swift.html

Lions and Colts will both sit out most starters in preseason finale:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/26/nfl-preseason-lions-colts-starters-sitting-out/

4 potential trade targets for the Lions before roster cutdowns:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/26/detroit-lions-potential-trade-targets-roster-cutdowns/

Three Players Who Impressed Dan Campbell at Training Camp:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/three-players-who-impressed-dan-campbell-training-camp



Lions vs. Colts preview: Which roster spots are up for grabs Friday night?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/26/22642586/lions-colts-preview-which-roster-spots-positional-battles
Posted by LionsFan at 12:40 PM 0 comments

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 8-26-21

Articles:

7 takeaways from OC Anthony Lynn's media session:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/7-takeaways-from-oc-anthony-lynn-s-media-session-swift-hockenson-perriman


Receiver job remains up for grabs heading into Lions’ preseason finale against Colts:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/receiver-job-remains-up-for-grabs-heading-into-lions-preseason-finale-against-colts.html


Detroit Lions to use preseason finale to take long look at running back depth:   https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/detroit-lions-to-use-preseason-finale-to-take-long-look-at-running-back-depth.html

Lions No. 1 receiver Tyrell Williams (groin) expected to be ready for Week 1:   https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/lions-no-1-receiver-tyrell-williams-groin-expected-to-be-ready-for-week-1.html

They call him 'Netflix,' now Detroit Lions RB Craig Reynolds chasing Hollywood ending:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2021/08/25/how-detroit-lions-rb-craig-reynolds-got-his-unique-nickname/5595052001/






2021 NFL season preview: Ranking all eight divisions (6. NFC North - THE GOOD: The Green Bay Packers found a way to get star quarterback Aaron Rodgers back into their building. We spent the entire offseason wondering if Rodgers would retire, force a trade or ultimately return to that franchise. Now that he's back -- and playing on a reworked contract that could offer him his chance to go elsewhere after this season -- the Packers can rest a little easier. This is still a team that won 13 games and reached the NFC title game in both 2019 and 2020. It certainly feels like another run at a Super Bowl appearance is a real possibility for Green Bay. The Minnesota Vikings were disastrous on defense last season, but those issues also had plenty to do with injuries to key players like Danielle Hunter and Anthony Barr. They've had a huge makeover on that side of the ball and it's hard to imagine head coach Mike Zimmer putting a similar product on the field this fall.  THE BAD: Dan Campbell seems like a great guy, the kind of dude you'd like to grab a beer with and hear him tell stories. The problem is he's coaching the Detroit Lions, not running for public office. This is a franchise that has had three playoff appearances in the last 21 years and it's hard to see Campbell changing that culture anytime soon. The Chicago Bears were good enough to make the postseason with an 8-8 record in 2020, but their hopes this year really come down to whether Justin Fields can succeed in his first season. They're already trying to sell people on the idea that Andy Dalton can manage that offense effectively until Fields matures, which sounds like a recipe for disaster. When it comes to Minnesota and Green Bay, it's all about minimizing drama. Kirk Cousins made headlines in training camp with his comments about the COVID-19 vaccine after landing on the reserve/COVID-19 list. If he winds up on that list again, it could badly hurt the Vikings' hopes in 2021. As for Rodgers and the Packers, any lingering drama between him and the front office could roil under the surface and undermine their championship dreams. It's one thing to renew your wedding vows. But when you stay together for the kids, that kind of dynamic rarely works out in the end.  THE BOTTOM LINE: The Packers will determine how good this division is by season's end. If they end up being a 13- or 14-win team, the NFC North will look much better.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2021-nfl-season-preview-ranking-all-eight-divisions

2021 NFL roster bubble: Notable players who could be traded or cut (NOTABLE PLAYERS WHO COULD BE CUT - Breshad Perriman:  Projected as a starter and possibly the Lions' No. 1 receiver earlier this offseason, Perriman might not even make the team, according to The Athletic. The Lions would have to swallow $2 million in wasted guarantees. Perriman reportedly struggled before injuring his hip.  Dan Campbell made it clear the receiver room is "up for grabs," but Detroit may as well stash Perriman on injured reserve since his salary is a sunk cost.  Jahlani Tavai - Taken at No. 43 overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, Tavai was reportedly a favorite of the Patriots during the pre-draft process, too. Patriots assistant Matt Patricia will likely get the chance to reunite with his draft pick in Foxborough if he is interested.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2021-nfl-roster-bubble-notable-players-who-could-be-traded-or-cut

32 potential trade targets, one from every NFL team (Detroit Lions: DE Da’Shawn Hand. The Lions bolstered the defensive line with two high draft picks and veteran Michael Brockers, leaving little room for Hand. The fourth-year vet has flashed starter-level skill when he’s been healthy enough to stay on the field and can play multiple positions along the defensive line. — Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-trade-targets-every-team-roster-cuts-week-1-jaylon-smith-gardner-minshew/


Video:

Posted by LionsFan at 4:27 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Afternoon Lions Links for Wednesday 8-25-21

Articles:

O'HARA: Okudah learning the value of having a short memory on the field:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-okudah-learning-the-value-of-having-a-short-memory-on-the-field





Da'Shawn Hand Injury 'More Than We Thought It Would Be':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/dashawn-hand-injury-more-severe-than-originally-expected

'Short Memory': Campbell Wants Lions to Be Like Michael Jordan:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/dan-campbell-wants-lions-to-act-like-michael-jordan


Posted by LionsFan at 1:53 PM 0 comments

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 8-25-21

Articles:

7 takeaways from DC Aaron Glenn's media session:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/7-takeaways-from-dc-aaron-glenn-s-media-session-onwuzurike-barnes-parker


Detroit Lions CB Jeff Okudah continues to show progress, mistakes and all:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/detroit-lions-cb-jeff-okudah-continues-to-show-progress-mistakes-and-all.html

Lions RB Craig Reynolds making most of chances in surprise push for roster spot:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/lions-rb-craig-reynolds-making-most-of-chances-in-surprise-push-for-roster-spot.html



Glenn defends Okudah from scrutiny, as Okudah explains 'self-inflicted' mistake:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/lions-dc-aaron-glenn-defends-jeff-okudah-from-scrutiny

Detroit Lions training camp observations defense knocked football loose:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-tuesday-nfl-training-camp-observations-defense

Detroit Lions training camp observations: Swift looks fine; still searching for WRs:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/24/22640080/detroit-lions-training-camp-observations-swift-looks-fine-still-searching-for-wrs


Top 10 rookie performances in NFL preseason Week 2 (6. CB A.J. PARKER, DETROIT LIONS:  If you don’t recognize the name, don’t fret. Parker was an undrafted free agent from Kansas State, but he’s quickly ascended on the depth chart and started over veteran Nickell Robey-Coleman. On seven targets, Parker allowed five catches for 16 yards and added a pass breakup. He finished the day with three coverage stops as well as two run stops for a 90.8 overall grade. The rookie didn’t play slot until his final year at Kansas State and already looks extremely confident.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-top-10-rookie-performances-nfl-preseason-week-2

Power Rankings:

Preseason NFL Power Rankings: 1-32 poll, plus who's on the hot seat for every team (31. Lions:  The 2021 season will be huge for Perriman, who agreed to a one-year deal in the offseason with the same franchise for which his father, Brett, starred in the 1990s. There is a big opportunity for Breshad, but he must seize the moment as a 2015 first-round pick. He isn't necessarily in jeopardy of not making the team, but his long-term future could be at stake depending on how this year pans out. -- Eric Woodyard):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32051371/nfl-power-rankings-2021-preseason-1-32-poll-plus-players-coaches-general-managers-hot-seat

Video:



Posted by LionsFan at 4:01 AM 0 comments

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

Afternoon Lions Links for Tuesday 8-24-21

Articles:

Detroit Lions concerned about D’Andre Swift’s availability for opener against 49ers:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/detroit-lions-concerned-about-dandre-swifts-availability-for-opener-against-49ers.html

Former lacrosse pro Tom Kennedy making push for Detroit Lions roster job:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/former-lacrosse-pro-tom-kennedy-making-push-for-detroit-lions-roster-job.html

O'HARA: Reeves-Maybin getting an opportunity to expand his role:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-reeves-maybin-getting-an-opportunity-to-expand-his-role



Lions coaches trust Tom Kennedy but is it enough to make the roster?:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/24/lions-tom-kennedy-roster-bubble-training-camp-decisions/

Rookie LB Derrick Barnes is the 'truth' for the Detroit Lions defense:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/24/derrick-barnes-lions-defense-truth-training-camp-rookie-report/

NFC North watch: Bears coach Matt Nagy keeps Andy Dalton installed as starting QB:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/24/nfc-north-bears-andy-dalton-justin-fields-starting-qb-competition/




Film breakdown: Jeff Okudah’s mistake and why coaches are okay with it... for now:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/24/22639291/film-breakdown-jeff-okudahs-mistake-steelers-why-coaches-are-okay-with-it


Video:



Posted by LionsFan at 1:57 PM 0 comments

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 8-24-21

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: Rookie Parker taking first-team reps at nickel corner:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-rookie-parker-taking-first-team-reps-at-nickel-corner





Lions TE T.J. Hockenson expected to be ready by Week 1 despite injury:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/lions-te-tj-hockenson-expected-to-be-ready-by-week-1-despite-injury.html

Undrafted Lions CB A.J. Parker working way into conversation for team’s nickelback job:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/undrafted-lions-cb-aj-parker-working-way-into-conversation-for-teams-nickelback-job.html




Dan Campbell on Breshad Perriman: 'There just hasn't been enough' from the WR in Lions training camp:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/23/lions-dan-campbell-breshad-perriman-hasnt-been-enough-wr-training-camp-battle/

Predicting the next 5 Lions roster cuts after the second preseason game:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/23/lions-roster-bubble-cuts-projections-preseason-roster/

The Lions' PFF grades from the preseason loss in Pittsburgh are not pretty:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/08/22/lions-preseason-pff-grades-steelers-a-j-parker-onwuzurike-sewell-tavai/

Lions roster bubble watch: 6 players who improved their roster odds:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-roster-bubble-watch-6-players-who-improved-their-roster-odds/

Detroit Lions NFL Training Camp Observations Quick Monday Practice:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-run-crisp-fast-monday-practice-training-camp

'He’s Gonna Do Wonders For Us': T.J. Hockenson Will Be Lions' Offensive Spark:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/tj-hockenson-will-be-detroit-lion

Lions Need More 'Discipline' from Cornerback Jeff Okudah:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-want-more-discipline-from-jeff-okudah

Dan Campbell: 'No Problem' Keeping Three Quarterbacks on Active Roster:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/campbell-says-lions-could-keep-quarte

Lions Flagship Radio: Team 'Screwed Up' Not Drafting QB Justin Fields:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/did-lions-make-mistake-drafting-sewell-over-fields

Lions' Roster Bubble List: Players Who Could Be Cut by Tuesday:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-roster-bubble-list-ahead-of-tuesday-nfl-cuts









NFL Preseason Week 2 Rookie Report: Grades, snaps, game takeaways and more (Penei Sewell is struggling to get acclimated: Sewell underwhelmed in his preseason debut at right tackle, and things got even worse this past weekend against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Melvin Ingram III gave him the business, and the No. 7 overall pick finished with a 13.5 pass-block grade for the game across 13 pass-blocking snaps.  Similar to the Ja’Marr Chase situation, it’s not even close to panic time. Just don’t expect the Lions tackle to put the clamps on every pass-rusher early in his rookie campaign.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-preseason-week-2-rookie-report-grades-snaps-game-takeaways

NFL Preseason Week 2 winners and losers: Whose stock is rising? On the decline? (Penei Sewell: The Lions drafted Sewell No. 7 overall, then made him change positions. I'll never understand that strategy, and the early returns are not positive. You don't need to be Daniel Jeremiah to see that Sewell hasn't looked comfortable at right tackle. Just look at his usage: Some Lions starters rested Saturday, while others came out of the game before Sewell because the rookie needed extra work.  I would push back on the narrative that Sewell and Chase are struggling because they didn't play football last year. While that should be taken into context, every situation is different. Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, Gregory Rousseau, Micah Parsons and Rashawn Slater were opt-outs, as well, yet they're enjoying terrific Augusts. So this is not a one-size-fits-all situation.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-preseason-week-2-winners-and-losers-whose-stock-rising-on-the-decline

2022 NFL Draft:

College Football News: Will Carson Strong emerge as a top QB in the 2022 NFL Draft?:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-news-will-carson-strong-emerge-as-a-top-qb-in-the-2022-nfl-draft/

2022 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 50 prospect rankings heading into 2021 CFB season:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-big-board-top-50-prospects-w0/

10 NFL draft prospects you need to know: Notre Dame S Kyle Hamilton:  https://sports.yahoo.com/10-nfl-draft-prospects-you-need-to-know-notre-dame-s-kyle-hamilton-180243720.html

VIDEO: 



Teams and position groups we'll be most patient with this season (They discuss the Lions WRs):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/teams-and-position-groups-we-ll-be-most-patient-with-this-season-gmfb

SportsWorks - 8-22-21 Woody with Stoney & Wojo talking Miggy, Lions & College Football:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/969625
Posted by LionsFan at 4:23 AM 0 comments
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