The Lions improved to 9-1 yesterday after a 52-6 route over the 2-9 Jaguars.
This was the Lions’ 30th win in 3 seasons, a franchise best. It was also the first time the team had won 8 straight games since 1934, the Lions’ first year in Detroit!
This is the second game in a row that the Lions did not allow a score in the second half. The offense scored on 7/8 drives and had 7 consecutive touchdown drives. They have scored with their last 11 possessions. The Jaguars never had a chance despite scoring first. Every stat line displayed the Lion’s domination. There could not have been enough praise for this team and the show they put on today.
There is much more to today’s win than watching the Lions score 52 points, earn 38 first downs, or drive 645 yards. How does their performance today show their caliber for the rest of this year?
What Did They Show Us Today?
Sonic can move!
Sonic the Hedgehog can run 6,051,022,551 mph. Although Jahymr Gibbs ran at 21.8 mph today, that’s closer than most. His display was not just of speed, but maneuverability. He could run through or around the defense seemingly effortlessly. He would often hardly stumble from initial or secondary contact. Something special is going to happen when Gibbs is given the ball.
An O-Line is key.
You might as well hand them some shovels. The Lion’s offensive line, comprised of Taylor Decker, Graham Glasgow, Frank Ragnow, Kevin Zeitler, and Penei Sewell, enabled every play for the Lions. They gave Goff the time he needed and protected the ball. Goff needed just a little time to allow his receivers to run their routes and shake off the secondary, and the boys provided. Their ability to protect Goff and open up the line of scrimmage for Gibbs and Montgomery allows this offense to be the best it can be. When they can do their job, it enables Ben Johnson to call a larger variety of plays throwing off the defense even more.
The E in defense stands for “everyone”
Kerby Joseph headlined the defense with his interception and the Lions’ 14th straight game with a takeaway. Alex Anzalone was also a key player today despite his injury. After he left, Jack Campbell fulfilled his role and stepped up leading the defensive pressure. He split a sack with the new Lion, Za’Darius Smith. Carlton Davis III played through a broken thumb today, displaying his dedication to the team and game. Aaron Glenn‘s defense allowed only 170 yards and has not allowed a touchdown since halftime of week 10. This defense has been on lockdown all season and keeps looking better.
Looking Forward
The Lions are down another defensive player. Anzalone is expected to be out for 6-8 weeks with a broken forearm.
The Lions will travel to Indianapolis next to play the Colts. The Colts managed to hold off the New York Jets today and are 5-6 on the season. Kickoff is 1 p.m. ET Sunday on Fox.
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