The Detroit Lions lost in a nail-bitting finish in their first road game of the season on Sunday. The Minnesota Vikings scored with 45 seconds left in the fourth quarter to take the lead and end the game with a final score of 28 to 24.
Here are my takeaways:
Ben Johnson’s Play Calling
Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson crafted several drives for the Lions that were pristine. His ability to adjust and overcome is impressive. All of his plays are calculated and articulate. Johnson said earlier this week that he wasn’t satisfied with the Lions’ offensive despite their hot start. It’s going to be a fun year to watch him, alongside Dan Campbell, manage this offense.
Aggressive Play
The Lions went for it on fourth down six times and were able to convert four times. While it didn’t work every time, this shows aggressiveness and mostly trust in these players to get the job done.
Injuries
Injuries were looming throughout this game. Three big ones, Tracy Walker, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and D’Andre Swift. Walker went down in the first quarter with an ankle injury and did not return. It was a non-contact injury that happened about 10 yards away from the play. St. Brown was slow to get up after being tackled in the second quarter.
He limped off the field, was looked at and taped up by medical staff, then went right back out onto the field. Swift hobbled off of the field early in the third quarter. He has a known ankle injury that he’s been suffering with since week 1. He also returned to the game.
These three players are key players for Detroit. These injuries are definitely something to keep your eye out on.
Defensive Stars
Alex Anzalone had a major day today tallying 10 tackles and adding on a sack for a loss of 10 yards.
Jeff Okudah is an elite cornerback. He is showing no signs of lingering injury after tearing his achilles and proving why he was the third overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Okudah’s coverage is insane.
Malcolm Rodriguez also had a great day today recording eight tackles.
Jamaal Williams Has a Day
Jamaal Williams showed out today. He had 20 carries for 87 yards and two touchdowns. He became the fourth player in franchise history to produce two multi-rushing touchdown games within the first three games of the season. His ability to find the holes and use his strength to run through tackles was on point today.
Another Record-Breaking Game
The Lions may have ended their streak at 18 consecutive quarters with a touchdown, but they set a new NFL record for the season. By scoring in the first three quarters today, they opened the 2022 season with a touchdown in all 11 quarters. This established a record for the most consecutive quarters with a TD scored to begin a season in NFL history.
The Lions will head home for their week 4 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday at 1pm ET.
