:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/55248339/usa_today_9724354.0.jpg)
We’re still a long ways away from the 2017 regular season, but Tuesday marked the two month mark until the Detroit Lions open up their preseason schedule against the Indianapolis Colts.
There may be a lot to learn about every team and their respective quests to raise the Lombardi Trophy at U.S. Bank Stadium next February, but the time of making predictions is drawing nearer. Who are we to fight against the overpowering conventional norms of the offseason? As someone who has to come up with a question of the day every single day of the year, I welcome premature prediction season like a wool coat on winter day. So today’s Question of the Day is:
Who will lead the Detroit Lions in touchdowns in 2017?
My answer: First, let’s be clear: Quarterbacks do not count here. Last season, Anquan Boldin was the led the team with eight total touchdowns, just barely ahead of Theo Riddick, who finished with seven (five receiving, two rushing).
This year, give me Ameer Abdullah. Abdullah also brings the dual threat of rushing and receiving, and he’s currently lined up to be Detroit’s clear No. 1 back. Though the Lions are very likely to spread out their snaps among several different running backs, I still see Abdullah getting around 15-20 touches per game. In other words, outside of Matthew Stafford and Travis Swanson, no one is going to touch the ball more than Abdullah this season.
It’s quite possible that one of the bigger backs could poach some goal line touchdowns from Abdullah in 2017, but I think his receiving skills—which are quite underrated—will more than make up for it. I think Abdullah will finish the season with 10 touchdowns. I know that sounds a bit ridiculous for someone that only has four career touchdowns, but check back with me in January.
Your turn.
Poll
Who will lead the Detroit Lions in touchdowns in 2017?
This poll is closed
-
25%
Ameer Abdullah
(167 votes) -
13%
Golden Tate
(92 votes) -
6%
Marvin Jones Jr.
(40 votes) -
14%
Kenny Golladay
(99 votes) -
17%
Eric Ebron
(115 votes) -
4%
Michael Roberts
(32 votes) -
9%
Theo Riddick
(60 votes) -
6%
Zach Zenner
(43 votes) -
1%
Other
(13 votes)