Pride Of Detroit - Full coverage of the Lions' crazy overtime win over Vikings, 22-16A Detroit Lions blog by Lions fans, for Lions fans.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/51601/pod-fav.png2016-11-09T12:00:06-05:00http://www.prideofdetroit.com/rss/stream/133044212016-11-09T12:00:06-05:002016-11-09T12:00:06-05:00Corey Robinson was nearly perfect in pass protection vs. Vikings
<figure>
<img alt="NFL: Preseason-New York Jets at Detroit Lions" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/J7tfVAykXoNbi-LIiu6ArVMw8x4=/0x530:2785x2387/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/51751909/usa_today_8745555.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Corey Robinson’s first career start was a good one. </p> <p id="8O9pfl">One of the biggest concerns for the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> heading into Week 9 against the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> was their offensive line. Through eight weeks, the Vikings led the league in sacks from defensive linemen, while Detroit was going through some last-minute shuffling of their starting O-line. <span>Riley Reiff</span> was downgraded to out on Saturday because of an illness, meaning <span>Corey Robinson</span> was due for his first career start. Robinson had played in only seven career games before Sunday, mostly as an injury replacement or a sixth lineman. His first start was not going to be an easy one.</p>
<p id="EvRslX">But Robinson met the challenge—especially in pass protection—and did all he could possibly do to help the offense succeed. Pro Football Focus had Robinson as <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fpro-nfl-det-min-grades-stafford-excels-in-another-lions-comeback%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prideofdetroit.com%2F2016%2F11%2F9%2F13574046%2Ffilm-breakdown-corey-robinson-pass-protection-vikings-perfect" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">the third-highest rated player on offense</a> for the Lions, and the tape seems to agree.</p>
<p id="PyORkG">I charted every single passing play from the Lions and recorded whether Robinson gave up a pressure, QB hit or kept the pocket clean. Here are the results:</p>
<div id="YWeaI0">
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<table class="tableizer-table">
<thead><tr class="tableizer-firstrow">
<th></th>
<th>Pocket</th>
<th>Play</th>
<th>Help from others?</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>3-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>WR screen</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>near pressure</td>
<td>thrown before pressure got there</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>WR screen</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>WR screen</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>play-action rollout</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>play action INT</td>
<td>help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>WR screen</td>
<td>double team</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>3 step drop, no immediate throw</td>
<td>no help, stunt picked up nicely</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>play-action pass</td>
<td>double team</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>play-action pass, no immediate throw</td>
<td>LB duties no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>stunt, no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>3-step drop</td>
<td>no help </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>RB help, not used</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>near pressure</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>WR screen</td>
<td>LB duties no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>5 step drop</td>
<td>RB chip</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>quick toss</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>WR screen</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20</td>
<td>near pressure</td>
<td>bomb - threw before pressure came</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>3-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>22</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>screen to other side</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>5-step drop BOMB, needed time</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>24</td>
<td>QB hit</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>26</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>3-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td>near pressure</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>28</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>rollout pass</td>
<td>RB help (didn't need it)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td>pressure</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>RB help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>30</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>6 step</td>
<td>no real help 3-man rush</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>no help good pickup of stunt</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>32</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>3-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>33</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>screen to other side</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>34</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>quick out</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>quick out</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>36</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>37</td>
<td>clean</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>38</td>
<td>near pressure</td>
<td>5-step drop</td>
<td>no help</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p id="xVegjO">First, it’s important to note that the Lions, as usual, had a very quick-paced passing game. <span>Matthew Stafford</span> had the ball out of his hand quickly on about 42.1 percent of passes. Here, I’m defining “quickly” as a three-step drop, any kind of screen or a quick out by a wide receiver. So for much of the day, Robinson’s duties as a pass blocker were minimal.</p>
<p id="zqkN3n">However, when Stafford needed to sling it, Robinson was called upon and he was mostly left to his own devices. Robinson received help, via tight end, chipping running back or extra lineman, just seven times in 38 drop-backs and several times he didn’t even need the help. </p>
<p id="Gm1yFi">In all, Robinson allowed just one quarterback hit, one pressure, and five what I call “near-pressures,” which were basically plays where Stafford got the ball out just before pressure was coming. That’s not a perfect day from Robinson, but considering the circumstances, that’s just about as good as anyone can expect. But let’s look at the tape to show you what I saw.</p>
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</figure>
<p id="vtNsaS">The first thing I want you to notice is the formation: The Vikings defensive end is lined up in the wide-nine technique, while Robinson is essentially left on an island. For Robinson to recover in time, it takes a lot of speed and athleticism. But Robinson shields <span>Danielle Hunter</span> off perfectly, giving Stafford the proper pocket to step into. </p>
<p id="ECwtiK">Robinson’s athleticism was on display there, but he also flexed his muscles a bit when the Vikings tried to throw power his way:</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/O_YO3WvcDXtxVwn6qV8U6Ci_gGo=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7437905/insta.gif">
</figure>
<p id="khB7tp">Once again, <span>Hunter</span> is lined up in the wide-nine against Robinson on an island. This time, Hunter tries to bull-rush Robinson. And while he succeeds in driving Robinson back, Corey is able to re-anchor himself and keep Hunter at bay. The key here is that he never loses balance while falling forward. This may not look like a successful block, but it absolutely is. </p>
<p id="qPBaDz">As for the pressures he gave up, there was a common link between most them: Robinson’s use of his hands. Take a look:</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/e8UlDd9pUhnvXrwd27wY2Xe-y1c=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7438027/insta.gif">
</figure>
<p id="j2KDLi">The Vikings’ defensive end is slow to get off the snap, yet he still manages to beat Robinson off the edge. Part of the reason is because of Robinson’s hand work. He reaches a little too far, and Hunter is able to easily slap them away. This was Robinson’s one quarterback hit allowed, but it exposes a problem he had on at least four different occasions. To be fair to Robinson on this play, much of the blame goes to <span>Travis Swanson</span>, who also allows a pressure leading Stafford right into Hunter. But this remains a good example of what Robinson needs to work on.</p>
<p id="db6NXi">Overall, though, you cannot be disappointed with Robinson’s first career start. Though he didn’t face the likes of <span>Everson Griffen</span>, he did face Hunter and Brian Robison, who have combined for 8.0 sacks this year. Robinson didn’t allow one sack, and was barely responsible for Stafford getting hit a single time. Compare that to last year’s disaster in Minnesota and you have to feel pretty good about this offensive line right now.</p>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/9/13574046/film-breakdown-corey-robinson-pass-protection-vikings-perfectJeremy Reisman2016-11-07T13:00:06-05:002016-11-07T13:00:06-05:00Notes: Two coaching decisions proved vital in Lions’ comeback win
<figure>
<img alt="NFL: Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/dbvueJsXq3rnq5u0EUBfdE93MLo=/0x0:3138x2092/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/51717651/usa_today_9659367.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Give the coaching staff credit because they made some huge decisions down the stretch.</p> <ul><li id="iyp9EA">
<a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/11/06/lions-caldwell-argued-key-time-added-back-clock/93410434/">As first pointed out by Justin Rogers</a> of The Detroit News and further detailed <a href="http://mmqb.si.com/mmqb/2016/11/07/oakland-raiders-dallas-cowboys-super-bowl-nfl-houston-week-9">by Peter King of MMQB</a>, on the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a>’ final offensive drive, Jim Caldwell argued for and was awarded two extra seconds after calling his final timeout. The <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Lions</a>’ game-winning field goal came with just two seconds left. </li></ul>
<p id="ATsvHr"></p>
<ul><li id="rhx3yd">The other major coaching decision came from Jim Bob Cooter. Apparently the Detroit Lions used a brand new play to get the team in field goal position at the end of regulation. <a href="http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/11/lions_oc_jim_bob_cooter_outdue.html">Kyle Meinke of MLive.com has the details</a>. </li></ul>
<p id="o7P0op"></p>
<ul><li id="BcEvCU">The Lions comeback may have been even more improbable than we originally thought: </li></ul>
<div id="GK7OlN">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Perspective on Matthew Stafford's latest miracle: <a href="https://t.co/EUfgO45XJw">pic.twitter.com/EUfgO45XJw</a></p>— Chris Sprow (@SprowESPN) <a href="https://twitter.com/SprowESPN/status/795651543408246785">November 7, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
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<p id="OHP8xw"></p>
<ul><li id="4lgJYQ">How does this keep happening? </li></ul>
<div id="Iv6NGk">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Matthew Stafford is the first QB since the <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL">@NFL</a> merger with 5 game-winning drives in the team's first 5 wins of the season. <a href="https://t.co/FBzeCt2zyA">pic.twitter.com/FBzeCt2zyA</a></p>— Detroit Lions (@Lions) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lions/status/795449016272166913">November 7, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
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<p id="VIYV7z"></p>
<ul><li id="xle4bd">Buttality: </li></ul>
<div id="LDioYG">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Golden Tate has the best special attack in Mortal Kombat <a href="https://t.co/mhl5dFnPgo">https://t.co/mhl5dFnPgo</a></p>— The Cauldron (ICYMI) (@CauldronICYMI) <a href="https://twitter.com/CauldronICYMI/status/795437704871903232">November 7, 2016</a>
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<p id="Fxxuic"></p>
<ul><li id="rgVjVB">The internet was not nice to Vikings safety <span>Harrison Smith</span> after <span>Golden Tate</span> wrestled him to the ground on his game-winning touchdown: </li></ul>
<div id="jQ4xAR">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Someone changed Harrison Smith's Wikipedia page <a href="https://t.co/QqSPpueF9M">pic.twitter.com/QqSPpueF9M</a></p>— Lions Insider (@Lions_Insider) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lions_Insider/status/795387171133800449">November 6, 2016</a>
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<p id="5c7G7G"></p>
<ul><li id="1HVH1w">The Lions’ offensive line, Tate and <span>Nevin Lawson</span> <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fpro-nfl-det-min-grades-stafford-excels-in-another-lions-comeback%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prideofdetroit.com%2F2016%2F11%2F7%2F13551516%2Flions-notes-coaching-decisions-proved-vital-comeback-win-jim-caldwell-two-seconds" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">all earned high marks from Pro Football Focus</a> on Sunday. </li></ul>
<p id="nTsSTb"></p>
<ul><li id="RZ1VhM">I like bananas: </li></ul>
<div id="rwXdlx">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The ending in Lions-Vikings was absolutely <a href="https://t.co/xttwO2zOnS">pic.twitter.com/xttwO2zOnS</a></p>— SB Nation (@SBNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/SBNation/status/795420563648823296">November 7, 2016</a>
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<p id="pjo4gB"></p>
<ul><li id="khj5cH">Vikings fans were mad on Sunday: </li></ul>
<div id="lpnZ7D">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Found on the Vikings subreddit and posted without further context <a href="https://t.co/pv6EMLCt8c">pic.twitter.com/pv6EMLCt8c</a></p>— moscow cocaine mule (@DetroitSouthern) <a href="https://twitter.com/DetroitSouthern/status/795403635593244677">November 6, 2016</a>
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https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/7/13551516/lions-notes-coaching-decisions-proved-vital-comeback-win-jim-caldwell-two-secondsJeremy Reisman2016-11-07T11:00:05-05:002016-11-07T11:00:05-05:00Snap counts: Lions 2016 draft class is taking over
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/t5nlKbmrVtONodtwksLVoU9HE4c=/0x0:2704x1803/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/51715011/usa-today-9659097.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Detroit Lions are continuing to get more out of their rookies.</p> <p>Here's a look at the snap counts for the Detroit Lions from their Week 8 game against the Minnesota Vikings.</p>
<h3>Offense:</h3>
<h3></h3>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="652">
<colgroup> <col width="181"> <col width="148"> <col width="87"> <col width="148"> <col width="88"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20" width="181"><b>QUARTERBACK</b></td>
<td align="center" width="148"><b>OFFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center" width="87"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center" width="148"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center" width="88"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Matthew Stafford</td>
<td align="center">66</td>
<td align="center">100%</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"><b>RUNNING BACK</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>OFFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Theo Riddick</td>
<td align="center">46</td>
<td align="center">70%</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Dwayne Washington</td>
<td align="center">21</td>
<td align="center">32%</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Zach Zenner</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center">18</td>
<td align="center">69%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"><b>FULLBACK</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>OFFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Michael Burton</td>
<td align="center">7</td>
<td align="center">11%</td>
<td align="center">8</td>
<td align="center">31%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"><b>WIDE RECEIVER</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>OFFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Marvin Jones</td>
<td align="center">62</td>
<td align="center">94%</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Golden Tate</td>
<td align="center">53</td>
<td align="center">80%</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Anquan Boldin</td>
<td align="center">44</td>
<td align="center">67%</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Andre Roberts</td>
<td align="center">20</td>
<td align="center">30%</td>
<td align="center">9</td>
<td align="center">35%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="left" height="20"><b>TIGHT END</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>OFFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Eric Ebron</td>
<td align="center">52</td>
<td align="center">79%</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Matthew Mulligan</td>
<td align="center">18</td>
<td align="center">27%</td>
<td align="center">9</td>
<td align="center">35%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Clay Harbor</td>
<td align="center">3</td>
<td align="center">5%</td>
<td align="center">8</td>
<td align="center">31%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"><b>OFFENSIVE TACKLE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>OFFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Taylor Decker</td>
<td align="center">66</td>
<td align="center">100%</td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">15%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Corey Robinson</td>
<td align="center">66</td>
<td align="center">100%</td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">15%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Cornelius Lucas</td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">6%</td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">15%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"><b>OFFENSIVE GUARD/CENTER</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>OFFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Travis Swanson</td>
<td align="center">66</td>
<td align="center">100%</td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">15%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20">Graham Glasgow</td>
<td align="center">66</td>
<td align="center">100%</td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">15%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Larry Warford</td>
<td align="center">66</td>
<td align="center">100%</td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">15%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Laken Tomlinson</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">15%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<h4>Observations</h4>
<ul>
<li>The most notable change on offense was the swap at running back. Last week, Justin Forsett was active, but did not take a single offensive snap. This week, they pushed Dwayne Washington into the lineup. Washington only managed 26 yards on 10 carries, but 10 carries alone is significant for a guy that was a healthy scratch last week.<br><br> </li>
<li>At tight end, newly-acquired Matthew Mulligan was immediately pushed into the Lions' role as a blocking tight end. <br><br> </li>
<li> <strike>A'Shawn</strike> Corey Robinson took over right tackle duties and played well enough to stay there the entire game. Considering where this team was at right tackle last year, that's an accomplishment worth mentioning. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Defense:</h3>
<p> </p>
<table width="652" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0">
<colgroup> <col width="181"> <col width="148"> <col width="87"> <col width="148"> <col width="88"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="20">
<td width="181" height="20" align="left"><b>DEFENSIVE END</b></td>
<td width="148" align="center"><b>DEFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td width="87" align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td width="148" align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td width="88" align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Ezekiel Ansah</td>
<td align="center">43</td>
<td align="center">63%</td>
<td align="center">3</td>
<td align="center">12%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Devin Taylor</td>
<td align="center">41</td>
<td align="center">59%</td>
<td align="center">2</td>
<td align="center">8%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Kerry Hyder</td>
<td align="center">36</td>
<td align="center">51%</td>
<td align="center">1</td>
<td align="center">4%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Anthony Zettel</td>
<td align="center">28</td>
<td align="center">40%</td>
<td align="center">5</td>
<td align="center">19%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Brandon Copeland</td>
<td align="center">13</td>
<td align="center">19%</td>
<td align="center">18</td>
<td align="center">69%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left"><b>DEFENSIVE TACKLE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>DEFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Haloti Ngata</td>
<td align="center">44</td>
<td align="center">63%</td>
<td align="center">3</td>
<td align="center">12%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">A'Shawn Robinson</td>
<td align="center">32</td>
<td align="center">46%</td>
<td align="center">2</td>
<td align="center">8%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Khyri Thornton</td>
<td align="center">28</td>
<td align="center">40%</td>
<td align="center">2</td>
<td align="center">8%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Stefan Charles</td>
<td align="center">17</td>
<td align="center">24%</td>
<td align="center">2</td>
<td align="center">8%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Tyrunn Walker</td>
<td align="center">16</td>
<td align="center">23%</td>
<td align="center">3</td>
<td align="center">12%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left"><b>LINEBACKER</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>DEFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Tahir Whitehead</td>
<td align="center">70</td>
<td align="center">100%</td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">15%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Josh Bynes</td>
<td align="center">45</td>
<td align="center">64%</td>
<td align="center">9</td>
<td align="center">35%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Antwione Williams</td>
<td align="center">18</td>
<td align="center">26%</td>
<td align="center">18</td>
<td align="center">69%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Thurston Armbrister</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center">22</td>
<td align="center">85%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td align="left" height="20"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left"><b>CORNERBACK</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>DEFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Nevin Lawson</td>
<td align="center">63</td>
<td align="center">90%</td>
<td align="center">8</td>
<td align="center">31%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Johnson Bademosi</td>
<td align="center">54</td>
<td align="center">77%</td>
<td align="center">11</td>
<td align="center">42%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Quandre Diggs</td>
<td align="center">41</td>
<td align="center">59%</td>
<td align="center">8</td>
<td align="center">31%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Adairius Barnes</td>
<td align="center">14</td>
<td align="center">20%</td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">15%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left"><b>SAFETY</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>DEFENSIVE SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>SPECIAL TEAMS SNAPS</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>PERCENTAGE</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Glover Quin</td>
<td align="center">70</td>
<td align="center">100%</td>
<td align="center">4</td>
<td align="center">15%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Tavon Wilson</td>
<td align="center">55</td>
<td align="center">79%</td>
<td align="center">5</td>
<td align="center">19%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Rafael Bush</td>
<td align="center">31</td>
<td align="center">44%</td>
<td align="center">8</td>
<td align="center">31%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Miles Killebrew</td>
<td align="center">11</td>
<td align="center">16%</td>
<td align="center">18</td>
<td align="center">69%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" align="left">Don Carey</td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center"><br></td>
<td align="center">22</td>
<td align="center">85%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<h4>Observations</h4>
<ul>
<li>Kerry Hyder continues to do more with less. Hyder had two huge sacks and added an additional tackle, despite playing just over half of the defensive snaps. With Armonty Bryant suspended, it was rookie Anthony Zettel that took over the extra snaps.<br><br> </li>
<li>Huge changes at defensive tackle. With Haloti Ngata's return, it was surprisingly Tyrunn Walker whose snaps took a huge decline. Walker responded nicely with a blocked field goal and a batted pass. Also interesting: after Jim Caldwell praised Stefan Charles for his game against the Texans, he saw the field much less often against the Vikings.<br><br> </li>
<li>Just take a moment to look at the rookies and their playing time on Sunday. Antwione Williams, A'Shawn Robinson, Anthony Zettel and Miles Killebrew have all seen a slow increase in snaps. Combine that with Dwayne Washington, Graham Glasgow and Taylor Decker on offense, and suddenly you have seven of 10 draft picks playing at least 15 percent of snaps. No one expected that out of this draft class. No one. </li>
</ul>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/7/13549664/lions-vikings-snap-counts-lions-2016-draft-class-kerry-hyderJeremy Reisman2016-11-07T09:00:07-05:002016-11-07T09:00:07-05:00Lions players react to their thrilling overtime win over Vikings
<figure>
<img alt="NFL: Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/70hyfeQOB0-pKjNkIBgxK4A-RJM=/0x0:4734x3156/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/51713031/usa_today_9658883.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Detroit Lions were pretty amped after their 22-16 win over the Minnesota Vikings.</p> <p id="edp0v5">The <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> are a team full of personalities. Never was that more clear when <span>Golden Tate</span> butt-butted a <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Vikings</a> defender on his way to the game-winning score on Sunday. But in this day and age, we don’t have to solely rely on what the three hour span of television coverage on game day reveals to us about the players’ personalities. Social media gives us a unique look into the mind and the lifestyle of our favorite athletes. And after a huge, emotional win like that, Lions players were at their best. Let’s check it out.</p>
<h4 id="91qxKO">“Great team win”</h4>
<p id="rHrLqw">It doesn’t matter what happens during a Lions victory, it will always be a “great team win.” So here’s a smattering of tweets with that exact phrase:</p>
<div id="Tg6dF1">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">GREAT TEAM WIN !!!!!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lions?src=hash">#Lions</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DetroitvsEverybody?src=hash">#DetroitvsEverybody</a></p>— Kerry Hyder Jr. (@KerryhyderJR) <a href="https://twitter.com/KerryhyderJR/status/795385135902457856">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="YSj1zj">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Granddad I Love You! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThisWasForYou?src=hash">#ThisWasForYou</a> GREAT TEAM WIN! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a></p>— Eric Ebron (@Ebron85) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ebron85/status/795376890857082880">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="hC0Ayy">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Another great team win!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a></p>— Justin Forsett (@JForsett) <a href="https://twitter.com/JForsett/status/795391751599128581">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="ya6YX1">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great team win today!! For real! Down to the end! Way to come up big!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a></p>— Josh Bynes (@bynestime56) <a href="https://twitter.com/bynestime56/status/795397016058740736">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="JjV6Tz"><strong>Offensive line feeling good</strong></p>
<p id="tdH82W">After arguably their best performance of the season, the offensive line was in full force on Twitter celebrating after the game. The Lions have some characters along that young line:</p>
<div id="UCaIfC">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">How bout those Lions? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a></p>— Graham Glasgow (@gglasgow61) <a href="https://twitter.com/gglasgow61/status/795391056011526146">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="Z2EH7F">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I love football lol <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a></p>— Larry Warford (@wardaddy_75) <a href="https://twitter.com/wardaddy_75/status/795392435371278336">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="oskqu9">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We've got some real special people in that locker room <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2mindrill?src=hash">#2mindrill</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a></p>— Taylor Decker (@TDeck68) <a href="https://twitter.com/TDeck68/status/795394565381488641">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="XnnxOu">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Teamwork is the fuel that allows common people to produce uncommon results." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a></p>— Travis Swanson (@Tswan64) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tswan64/status/795395319550898181">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="a4IR7R"><strong>Let’s give the kicker some love</strong></p>
<p id="0nEwUU"><span>Matt Prater</span> saved the day with one of the most clutch kicks in Detroit Lions history. As a result, he got the recognition he deserved.</p>
<p id="vCnUIY"><span>Sam Martin</span>, in response to <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNStatsInfo/status/795370187369418752">this tweet</a>: </p>
<div id="DbhC0u">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">BEAAAASSSTTTTT!!!!!! <a href="https://t.co/uXNGKRsqlq">https://t.co/uXNGKRsqlq</a></p>— Sam (@SamMartin_6) <a href="https://twitter.com/SamMartin_6/status/795404762745372672">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="D6LyyY">While Eric Ebron simply retweeted this: </p>
<div id="GHGFbL">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Matt Prater: CLUTCH.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DETvsMIN?src=hash">#DETvsMIN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a> <a href="https://t.co/7aXsOJokoS">pic.twitter.com/7aXsOJokoS</a></p>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/795428320087195648">November 7, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="Hwx8zS">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Good stuff Pratt!!!!! </p>— Ameer Abdullah (@Ameerguapo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ameerguapo/status/795369474270564352">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="BFtzp4"><strong>Let the injured have their voices heard</strong></p>
<p id="NBoJ4T">It’s no fun for a Lions player to be watching from at home, so many of them live-tweet the games. Here’s a sampling of that—we included <span>Caraun Reid</span>, even though he’s with the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers">Chargers</a> now:</p>
<div id="kj6lwU">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Let's goooooo! Heck of a way to finish fellas <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a></p>— Ameer Abdullah (@Ameerguapo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ameerguapo/status/795373160078131206">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="JJt9Dy">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">BEAST <a href="https://twitter.com/ShowtimeTate">@ShowtimeTate</a></p>— Cole Wick (@kingcole45) <a href="https://twitter.com/kingcole45/status/795373803442475010">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="jf4oZr">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="und" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/ShowtimeTate">@ShowtimeTate</a> wow</p>— Caraun Akinó Reid (@ChopReid) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChopReid/status/795373022584733696">November 6, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="94o3JI">The really great stuff is on Snapchat, which, unfortunately, cannot be embedded on the site, as the video messages disappear after 24 hours. However, if you’re interested in checking out who to follow on Snapchat, check out <a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/8/9/12406778/detroit-lions-social-media-account-username-twitter-instagram-snapchat">our full Detroit Lions Social Media Master List. </a></p>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/7/13548722/lions-players-react-thrilling-overtime-win-over-vikings-social-media-twitterJeremy Reisman2016-11-07T08:00:09-05:002016-11-07T08:00:09-05:00Lions-Vikings report card: O-line shines, defense improves
<figure>
<img alt="Detroit Lions v Minnesota Vikings" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/I1-Tvs354BdvjP-LZ1FbgZKZNbc=/0x0:4183x2789/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/51712891/621445106.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Lions beat the Vikings with plays from unlikely heroes. </p> <p id="dwqfyL">The <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a>’ Week 9 victory against Minnesota had its ups and downs. For every bright spot, there was a glaring area of concern. For every individual accomplishment, there was an equal and opposite failure. That being said, the team, overall, looked a little better than normal against a decent <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Vikings</a> team. So let’s hand out some grades for the Lions.</p>
<p id="Kbonut"><strong>Quarterback: B</strong></p>
<p id="AEfG7M"><span>Matthew Stafford</span> didn’t have his best game overall. He had a terrible interception that could have proven costly had the defense not bailed them out on the subsequent possession. That play aside, Stafford had an above-average game. He wasn’t helped out by his receivers—who dropped even more passes on Sunday—or the refs—who missed some obvious pass interference calls. But Stafford came alive when the Lions absolutely needed him to. In his final two drives—not including his one spike)—Stafford went 7-8 for 108 yards and one touchdown: A perfect 158.3 passer rating. Against this impressive defense, that is no small accomplishment.</p>
<p id="U6I7h2"><strong>Running backs: C+</strong></p>
<p id="UV5WYz"><span>Theo Riddick</span> may have had the longest run of his career, and <span>Dwayne Washington</span> may have shown some impressively hard rushes throughout the game, but the Lions running game completely failed them in the second half. Toss plays were especially ineffective for Detroit and put them in unenviable third-and-long situations against a smothering Vikings defense. If the Lions hadn’t made their incredible comeback, we’d be talking a lot about how the Lions running game completely disappeared in the second half.</p>
<p id="uqogoJ">And, surprisingly, Riddick was a complete non-factor in the passing game. He caught just one pass for six yards, his lowest receiving total since 2014.</p>
<p id="pcNnaj"><strong>Tight ends: A-</strong></p>
<p id="JwoTHe"><span>Eric Ebron</span> was an absolute beast in this game, setting a career high in receiving with 92 yards. He had seven catches on the day, and four of those went for first downs—a fifth should have earned a first down, but was poorly spotted by the officials. </p>
<p id="qAlJQq">Blocking was again a struggle for Lions tight ends, which is why they didn’t get an A outright. <span>Matthew Mulligan</span> was the blocking tight end <em>du jour</em>, and he looked a bit rusty, especially so on a play where Washington had to make his way through the tight end in addition to the Vikings front line. </p>
<p id="RHqvFH"><strong>Wide receivers: D</strong></p>
<p id="JWFk0e">If not for Golden Tate’s game-winning theatrics, the Lions receivers would have received a failing grade. For the second straight week, Lions receivers didn’t get much separation, and when the ball actually reached their hands, they got a case of the dropsies. Scratch that, this team isn’t suffering from a case of the dropsies anymore. This has happened often enough to believe this isn’t a passing illness. This is a serious problem. </p>
<p id="HXJkeK">Consider this: <span>Andre Roberts</span>’ 27-yard catch at the end of regulation gave him more receiving yards for the game than <span>Anquan Boldin</span> and Marvin Jones combined. </p>
<p id="jpauqo"><strong>Offensive line: A-</strong></p>
<p id="bRI5oa">The Lions had a rookie left tackle, rookie left guard and a second-string right tackle against one of the best defensive lines in the NFL. The result? A clean pocket for a good majority of the game, just one sack surrendered and a mere four quarterback hits <a href="http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/11/06/detroit-lions-offensive-line/93403816/">according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press</a>. </p>
<p id="wvcfa5">The running game was a mess for the majority of the game, however. The aforementioned toss plays were mostly failures due to poor blocking. But considering the challenge the Lions’ offensive line faced, I thought they more than met the task.</p>
<p id="lHw71j"><strong>Defensive line: B-</strong></p>
<p id="jWRF7P">The Vikings offensive line was notoriously in shambles on Sunday, but I don’t think the Lions took advantage as much as they should have. <span>Ezekiel Ansah</span> finally looked like himself and <span>Kerry Hyder</span> continued to be the Lions’ only pleasant surprise on defense, but overall, Detroit still had to send a <em>ton </em>of blitzes to try and create consistent pressure. At times, Minnesota also ran the ball fairly effectively against Detroit. </p>
<p id="6EyzyB"><strong>Linebackers: C</strong></p>
<p id="PUYIft">This is a big improvement from the unit’s typical D or F weekly grade, but there’s still some work to do here. <span>Josh Bynes</span> looked much improved in his second week since re-signing with the Lions, and <span>Tahir Whitehead</span> finished with a team-high 12 tackles. However, the story was the same on defense. The Lions were getting gashed over the middle of the field: linebacker territory. </p>
<p id="m5eBM0"><strong>Secondary: D-</strong></p>
<p id="Vp9kTk">Without Darius Slay for a second straight week, the Lions looked to be at the mercy of <span>Sam Bradford</span> for almost the entire game. Not only did Bradford complete 77.5 percent of his passes for 6.8 yards per attempt, but the Lions secondary was responsible for just one pass defended all game. <span>Nevin Lawson</span> looked okay, but everyone else was getting picked on all game. </p>
<p id="YKVdh9"><strong>Special teams: B+</strong></p>
<p id="zTv8Fa">The biggest plays of the game on special teams all went the Lions’ way: Matt Prater’s 58-yard game-tying field goal, Blair Walsh’s missed extra point and blocked go-ahead field goal. </p>
<p id="wgBuvt">But the Lions were not good in the return game. <span>Cordarrelle Patterson</span> averaged 29.0 yards per kickoff return, while <span>Stefon Diggs</span> had a huge 19-yard punt return. Meanwhile, Andre Roberts put the Lions in serious danger with his awful 10-yard kickoff return to start overtime. But Prater and <span>Sam Martin</span> were on point all game, and that made the bigger difference.</p>
<p id="xD2ta4"><strong>Coaching: B</strong></p>
<p id="qNJWil">I didn’t have any real coaching qualms with Jim Caldwell all game. Some thought Detroit should have let the Vikings score late to give the Lions more time for a comeback, but as long as a field goal is not enough to take the lead, you always go for the defensive goal line stand. The Lions had already accomplished that once in the game.</p>
<p id="3dnnSL">The other gripe I saw other fans have with Caldwell was his decision to send in the field goal team in on fourth-and-2 at the Vikings’ 34-yard line, already up 10-9 early in the fourth quarter. Detroit’s offense had yet to earn a first down in the second half, and Prater is money. I’m perfectly fine with that decision.</p>
<p id="9DhWSj">As for the coordinators, I thought this was another questionable game for Jim Bob Cooter. The countless attempts to stretch the Vikings defense with tosses and WR screens seemed misguided against a very speedy, very athletic defense. Going deep didn’t really work well either, but I really would have liked to see the Lions use Riddick more in the passing game over the middle. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin deserves credit for keeping the Lions defense afloat, even though they started to crumble in the second half. </p>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/7/13548426/lions-vikings-report-card-offensive-line-shines-defense-improvesJeremy Reisman2016-11-07T07:00:03-05:002016-11-07T07:00:03-05:00Matt Prater may be the most clutch kicker in the NFL right now
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<figcaption>Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Matt Prater is not only having a good season, he’s having an amazing career.</p> <p id="ARtgpy">Sometimes I think about how the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> got <span>Matt Prater</span>, and it still seems surreal to me. The Lions were in the midst of a kicker crisis. It was 2014, and their rookie seventh-round kicker had blown four out of seven kicks in just three games. Panicked about their poor choice, the Lions went to <span>Alex Henery</span>, who was just 1-of-3 in the preseason for Detroit. Henery proceeded to miss four of his five kicks over the next three games with the Lions, losing a crucial game against the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Bills</a> in the process. </p>
<p id="cIm5Ct">The Lions were dumbfounded. Sure they were a respectable 3-2 after five weeks, but their kickers were a combined 4-for-10, and there was no clear end in sight. Then the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Broncos</a> did them a huge favor. After serving his four-game suspension, Prater was released by the Broncos, who were happy with their youngster Brandon McManus. The signing was a no-brainer for the Lions. Prater finished the season 21-of-26. Not quite his best year, but just the respectability the Lions needed to make their playoff run.</p>
<p id="vrOldw">Two years later, Prater has settled in quite nicely. In total, he has made 85.5 percent of his field goals with Detroit, including 12-of-15 from 50 yards or longer (80 percent). </p>
<p id="HuUNSJ">But nowhere has Prater been more valuable than in crunch time. On Sunday, Prater made what should be considered the pinnacle of clutch kicks: a 58-yarder, on the road, with no time remaining, with no timeouts to plan the kick accordingly, to tie the game. As soon as the ball left his foot, there was no question. The kick was good. This was no normal kick. This was special:</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Prater's 58-yarder was the second-longest game-tying field goal in the final minute of the fourth quarter in NFL history, per <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL">@NFL</a>.</p>— Pride Of Detroit (@PrideOfDetroit) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrideOfDetroit/status/795432668364087296">November 7, 2016</a>
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<p id="uOwZhY">And the longest clutch kick in the fourth quarter? That also belongs to Prater:</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Prater also holds that record for his 59-yarder while with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Broncos?src=hash">#Broncos</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL">@NFL</a></p>— Pride Of Detroit (@PrideOfDetroit) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrideOfDetroit/status/795432936459759616">November 7, 2016</a>
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<p id="zulRFs">This wasn’t his first time coming through in the clutch for Detroit. In this season alone, Prater has hit four game-winning or game-tying field goals in the final minutes of regulation. But this isn’t new for Prater. He has made a habit out of clutch kicks. He has been kicking with ice cold blood in his veins for his entire professional career. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Matt Prater: 23-of-23 in career on game-tying or go-ahead FG attempts in the 4th quarter or OT after his 58-yard make</p>— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNStatsInfo/status/795370187369418752">November 6, 2016</a>
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<p id="8L61v3">Just look at that stat. For all of the credit guys like <span>Adam Vinatieri</span> and <span>Sebastian Janikowski</span> get, Prater is silently becoming the most clutch kicker of all time. 23-of-23. You literally can’t get any better than that. </p>
<p id="xr3Qr6">I know Lions fans aren’t taking Prater for granted after that horrible five-game stretch in 2014. But maybe it’s time for the rest of the league to take notice. Prater belongs in the conversation for best clutch kicker in the NFL right now, maybe best clutch kicker of all time. Just listen to the way the guy talks:</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Prater: "I expect to make everything. They send me out there to make kicks, not attempt them."</p>— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) <a href="https://twitter.com/ttwentyman/status/795380005823975424">November 6, 2016</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">My postgame 1 on 1 with Matt Prater after his FG forced today's game into OT: <a href="https://t.co/9YRAXGvnhZ">https://t.co/9YRAXGvnhZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/UgDQ8ybVnQ">pic.twitter.com/UgDQ8ybVnQ</a></p>— Tori Petry (@sportstori) <a href="https://twitter.com/sportstori/status/795447447686258688">November 7, 2016</a>
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<p id="ZOS3fY">That’s the mentality of a clutch kicker. </p>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/7/13548320/matt-prater-most-clutch-kicker-in-nflJeremy Reisman2016-11-07T06:00:03-05:002016-11-07T06:00:03-05:00Open thread: How to do you feel about the Lions right now?
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<figcaption>Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>How has your opinion changed after the Lions' 22-16 overtime win over the Vikings?</p> <p>The Detroit Lions did something on Sunday I thought was no longer possible. They upped their degree of difficulty for a comeback win and met the challenge. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/6/13543446/the-lions-were-mathematically-dead-and-then-stafford-worked-his-magic">Facing impossible odds</a>, Matthew Stafford put together a game-tying drive. Then in overtime, Stafford made sure the game would not be in the defense's hands and put together an masterful 11-play, 87-yard drive to end the game for good.</p>
<p>The Lions are now 5-4, just a half-game behind the Vikings, whom they now hold the tiebreaker over. The Packers are a half-game behind the Lions at 4-4. And Detroit is heading into the bye healthier than they have been since Week 1.</p>
<p>So today's Question of the Day is:</p>
<h4>Do you feel better, worse or the same about the Lions after their win over the Vikings?</h4>
<p>My answer: A little better. I'm very close to saying a lot better, but I'm not quite ready to believe in this team. What has me feeling better about their chances, however, is the fact that the rest of the NFC North looks just as flawed as the Lions right now, and the division is 100 percent up for grabs right now. What has me still doubting the Lions is the fact that now the offense is seeing some serious struggles. Granted, they showed up <i>huge </i>in desperation moments, but they had several chances to put that game away early and squandered every second half chance they got. Still, this team has as good of a chance as any to take the division. So I'm feeling pretty good right now.</p>
<p>Your turn.</p>
<p> </p>
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https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/7/13548240/monday-open-thread-do-you-feel-better-worse-or-the-same-about-theJeremy Reisman2016-11-06T19:15:03-05:002016-11-06T19:15:03-05:00Detroit Lions stock report: Half a game out
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<figcaption>Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Detroit Lions gained a stunning victory over the NFC North leading Minnesota Vikings in overtime and they now find themselves a half game out of the lead for the NFC North. Let’s take stock of the team heading into the bye week.</p> <p id="hGdQGC">Wow, what a game! The Detroit Lions once again came up strong in the clutch, with Matthew Stafford putting together a 23-second drive with no timeouts to get the team into field goal range. From there, Matt Prater hit a 58 yarder to force overtime, and then the team marched 87 yards down the field for a touchdown in overtime to beat the NFC North leading Minnesota Vikings. Stock down? Our collective heart strength as the team had us at the ends of our seats once again. Stock up? The win column.</p>
<h2 id="q3CyQA">Stock Up: Golden Tate, WR</h2>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Golden.<br>Tate.<br>Game.<br>Over.<a href="https://twitter.com/Lions">@Lions</a> WIN! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DETvsMIN?src=hash">#DETvsMIN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnePride?src=hash">#OnePride</a><a href="https://t.co/Qjv9stdxWC">https://t.co/Qjv9stdxWC</a></p>— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) <a href="https://twitter.com/nflnetwork/status/795373839559467008">November 6, 2016</a>
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<p id="P8sV5w">So let’s talk about that touchdown for a second, and then I’ll let it go. Golden Tate made a pretty routine catch, but once again it was what he did after that catch that I’m going to address. Stopping on a dime, inbounds, while sending one Vikings defender to the burn unit before stiff-arming Pro Bowl safety Harrison Smith to the ground and executing a flip into the end zone—he may have been just trying to put his backside in the other dude’s face just to rub it in—to seal the victory was incredible. He would finish the day with 11 catches for 79 yards, and while most of his catches were of the short or no gain variety, I think we can all see why the goal is to get the ball into his hands and let him work.</p>
<h2 id="LD4tae">Stock Down: A’Shawn Robinson, DT</h2>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">And A'Shawn Robinson with a netutral zone infraction on third-and-2. First down, Vikings.</p>— Dave Birkett (@davebirkett) <a href="https://twitter.com/davebirkett/status/795366236762710016">November 6, 2016</a>
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<p id="7kgCtV">Rookies make rookie mistakes. Robinson has had his own struggles rushing the passer this year, as he did once again against Minnesota, and a late batted pass took a bit of the sting off his huge mistake. Robinson entered the neutral zone for a penalty on third down, with the Vikings in the red zone and about a minute left in the fourth quarter. They would go on to score on that drive, putting the Lions down three. The Lions would ultimately win the game by some late-game heroics from Prater and Stafford, but the game was nearly lost in that moment by Robinson. You could see it on his face on the sidelines. He’ll learn from it, but he isn’t making the kind of impact as a defender to excuse mistakes like that.</p>
<h2 id="tiGrDa">Stock Up: Ezekiel Ansah, DE</h2>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hyder should send Ziggy a thank you card for sack 7. Great speed rush off the edg by Ansah. Forced Bradford to step up into Hyder <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DETvsMIN?src=hash">#DETvsMIN</a></p>— Zachary Warber (@KingWarbs) <a href="https://twitter.com/KingWarbs/status/795349778339131395">November 6, 2016</a>
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<p id="Q4tO4N">Ansah has been struggling with injuries in 2016 and while he has played some the past few weeks, he is clearly not himself. The Vikings game was one where he didn’t flash on the box score, but was routinely affecting plays. On Kerry Hyder’s sack, it was Ziggy who forced Bradford up in the pocket, an excellent play design and execution where Ziggy bent the edge—something he’s struggled with due to his ankle. Later, a play was given up on a short pass and a tackle was missed, Ziggy came out of nowhere to salvage the play for a shorter gain. He’s starting to fly all over the field again, and it’s only a matter of time before he’s giving QBs those hugs he likes. </p>
<h2 id="Zu3Zye">Stock Down: Anquan Boldin, WR</h2>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just a drop by Boldin there. Disappointing end to a promising drive. Settle for field goal</p>— Kyle Meinke (@kmeinke) <a href="https://twitter.com/kmeinke/status/795329076655484928">November 6, 2016</a>
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<p id="xjcpvB">Boldin, the wily veteran, was brought in for surehandedness. He’s dropped five passes on the season after dropping two against the Vikings, pulling in his other two targets for only 10 yards. He still has a role in the offense, but with Eric Ebron and Theo Riddick making defenses have nightmares, his role has been severely diminished. Drops like the two he had today aren’t going to make a convincing case that he should get more targets later, either. One of his catches was for a touchdown, on a play the Lions have had a lot of success on in the red zone, so he’ll be secure as long as he can still do that. The rest of the field? Maybe time to start looking at better options.</p>
<h2 id="3ykRZR">Stock Up: Eric Ebron, TE</h2>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tough catch by Ebron. Big first down.</p>— Pride Of Detroit (@PrideOfDetroit) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrideOfDetroit/status/795362786947665920">November 6, 2016</a>
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<p id="DwQXcQ">While I’m sure the drop he had early in the game is going to be talked about by many a hater—only his third official drop of the season—I’m going to look at the other seven targets he had and take a whole picture approach. All seven of those other targets were caught for a personal best 92 yards, the best of which was a 23-yard reception with some nifty after the catch action. It looks like Ebron has been hanging out with Golden Tate and Theo Riddick lately, adding some moves to his repertoire once he has the ball in his hands. He and Riddick paired for some of the best work in the game and both deserve to be focal points in this offense moving forward.</p>
<h2 id="Ni5OOA">Stock down: Johnson Bademosi, CB</h2>
<p id="w7KnP3">Bademosi started for the injured Darius Slay and boy did it show that he was a career special teamer. His worst series of the game came when he missed a routine tackle, allowing the receiver to get an extra 6 yards, and then had a penalty on the following play. It didn’t end there: he was routinely abused by Sam Bradford. It looks like his strong play the previous week was truly due to facing Brock Osweiler, as Bradford isn’t a whole lot better. But Bradford managed to expose Bademosi all game. Gladly, Darius Slay is expected back after the bye.</p>
<h1 id="4L6IYh">Quick Hits</h1>
<h2 id="7A6rnU">Stock Up</h2>
<p id="j5adn4"><strong>Josh Bynes, LB: </strong>Just missing an extended write up, Bynes had a very good bounce back game against Minnesota. His speed continues to be an issue, but his great instincts and tackling ability are important strengths. <br><strong>Don Carey, SS: </strong>It probably won’t get much attention, but Carey made one of the best special teams plays of the season on his tackle of Marcus Sherels. <br><strong>Taylor Decker, OT: </strong>Continues to be a good rookie left tackle, an achievement I don’t think many understand the importance of. <br><strong>Graham Glasgow, OG: </strong>The rookie had his share of struggles last week, but had an overall solid game on a tough draw. <br><strong>Kerry Hyder, DE: </strong>One was a gimme from Ansah, but Hyder walked away with two sacks putting him at seven on the season. He’s made a lot of money.<br><strong>Nevin Lawson, CB: </strong>I almost put him down since he was injured and it might be serious. It should be recognized how well he played against Minnesota, though, as he saved numerous plays that others messed up in addition to covering well.<br><strong>Haloti Ngata, DT: </strong>Ngata was needed back and he made his presence felt for much of the game. The Vikings couldn’t rush the ball and Bradford’s pocket was muddy.<br><strong>Matt Prater, K: </strong>Prater was amazing. More than just making his field goals, he came up clutch to send the game into overtime like a boss. Another player who bounced back from a rough week prior.<br><strong>Glover Quin, FS: </strong>Quin had an excellent return on the blocked kick, but more importantly he was good playing deep safety and keeping people in position.<br><strong>Theo Riddick, RB: </strong>After rushing for less than 3 YPC his entire career, Riddick now has three weeks in a row where he rushed for 4.5 or more per carry.<br><strong>Andre Roberts, WR: </strong>I nearly put him in unchanged, as his return work was very poor—especially his last, a 10 yard KR in OT—but Roberts caught his sole target, putting the Lions in position to tie the game. Big play deserving of recognition.<br><strong>Corey Robinson, OT: </strong>I talked up Robinson a bit in training camp, but an injury and solid play in front of him meant no opportunities. His first start went pretty well against some athletic pass rushers. A good showing for the 7th rounder. <br><strong>Matthew Stafford, QB: </strong>It’s kind of nice to not be hearing all the “Stafford should be traded” chatter. Stafford’s game-winning drive was spectacular, but more impressive to me was organizing the short drive that put them in position to kick a field goal with almost no time. <br><strong>Travis Swanson, OC: </strong>Swanson has been having an excellent year, and his best play thus far may be pushing a stopped Dwayne Washington ahead for an extra 6 or so yards.<br><strong>Devin Taylor, DE: </strong>Taylor has been very poor this season, so it’s worth noting when he wasn’t awful. Which he wasn’t. Not good, but not terrible. <br><strong>Tyrunn Walker, DT: </strong>Walker had his best game of the season, batting down a pass and blocking a field goal that was returned for big yards. <br><strong>Larry Warford, OG: </strong>Warford has had ups and downs, but this one was certainly an up. Blocked hard often and gave holes for Theo Riddick to run through.<br><strong>Tahir Whitehead, LB: </strong>A good example when looking at why the Lions brought Whitehead back: his athleticism was on display as he flew all over the field. </p>
<h2 id="I9nEqA">Stock Down</h2>
<p id="qOoyAF"><strong>Adairius Barnes, CB: </strong>Barnes looked good on a few snaps last week, then got hurt. Got hurt again this week. His tiny frame appears to be limiting his ability to stay healthy.<br><strong>Rafael Bush, SS: </strong>Bush didn’t get a lot of work, but his only notable moment was a terribly soft, poor form tackle where he allowed extra yardage. <br><strong>Brandon Copeland, DE: </strong>The only time I notice Copeland was when he gave up contain on the edge. A pass rushing specialist who can’t rush the passer or set an edge.<br><strong>Quandre Diggs, CB: </strong>Diggs has been mostly quietly, and is having a poor year. That continued as he was eaten alive at times in the slot, though he was saved a few times by others.<br><strong>Justin Forsett, RB: </strong>From starting to inactive. Dwayne Washington’s activation meant the Lions had no need for Forsett.<br><strong>Marvin Jones, WR: </strong>Jones wasn’t good against Minnesota and couldn’t shake Trae Waynes at all on deep routes. He needs a bounce back game. <br><strong>Khyri Thornton, DT: </strong>I may change this one later, but the only times I noticed Thornton was being blown off the line on run plays. Kind of a partial grade, this one.<br><strong>Dwayne Washington, RB: </strong>This was the big opportunity after Riddick left for a minor injury, but Washington managed only 26 yards on 10 carries. Same blocking, Riddick had 5.0 YPC, nearly twice Washington. No fumbles, but he also carried the ball very loosely.<br><strong>Zach Zenner, RB: </strong>No rushes for Zenner as the team’s third back. </p>
<h2 id="0DXSi8">Unchanged</h2>
<p id="O8qp36"><strong>Thurston Armbrister, LB: </strong>Did he play? I don’t know. Didn’t affect the game one way or the other. <br><strong>Michael Burton, FB: </strong>Burton was used sparingly in this one as they once again went to an offense that worked horizontally. JBC tried some gimmick stuff, but it was bad.<br><strong>Stefan Charles, DT: </strong>Charles had a great week against Houston, but I didn’t see much one way or the other against Minnesota. <br><strong>Joe Dahl, OG: </strong>Nothing to change my mind.<br><strong>Clay Harbor, TE: </strong>Getting special teams play is important if you want to keep your job, but Harbor did little of note. <br><strong>Miles Killebrew, SS: </strong>I keep seeing him and he’s not doing anything bad or notably good. Just kinda working, which is where he needs to be right now.<br><strong>Cornelius Lucas, OT: </strong>Corey Robinson playing well means we weren’t subjected to much Cornelius Lucas. Stock up Lions fans!<br><strong>Sam Martin, P: </strong>Martin looked good as always, and he needed some stability after a rare poor game last week. He has time to rest whatever minor injury he incurred.<br><strong>Antwione Williams, LB: </strong>Not much to say, he didn’t look great or terrible. <br><strong>Tavon Wilson, SS: </strong>This one is another I may change. He played all game, and I only noticed a couple that weren’t good. Mostly quiet, though.</p>
<h1 id="BMHqq4">Coaches</h1>
<h2 id="cQg4X4">Jim Caldwell, HC: Stock Up</h2>
<p id="gDCVQM">I’ve been harsh on Jim Caldwell since I believe he isn’t a very good coach—even after a win, this still holds true for me. Still, I can recognize when someone is doing some fine work as a coach and Caldwell pulled one out. There was a stupid 12 men on the field penalty to illustrate some of the little things he still struggles with, but how quickly the Lions lined up in a legal formation to spike the ball in field goal range with only seconds to work was masterful. That’s what a well coached team looks like in a bubble and I’d love to see more of that for 60 minutes of football. </p>
<h2 id="apfM5U">Jim Bob Cooter, OC: Stock Down</h2>
<p id="m2Y6mG">If I went solely by the first half, this would be the other way around. The 9:45 minute drive to end the half with a touchdown was beautiful play design and execution. The second half was mostly poor both from a play design and calling perspective, especially on third downs. He managed to put it all together to end the game strongly, but this isn’t the first time we’ve seen poor second half adjustments from a Lions coordinator. </p>
<h2 id="PYXmCK"><strong>Teryl Austin, DC: Stock Up</strong></h2>
<p id="iWXzNV">Teryl Austin has had a few bad weeks this season. By few I mean nearly all, and this game certainly had moments I could ding him for. However, this was easily his best called game and the players were executing accordingly. There were several moments in the game where we held our breaths in anticipation of a huge broken play only to see nothing of the sort. There were solid performances in all three levels of the defense, which is notable because even when he has had decent games this season there was always one level that was completely off—usually the LBs. Against Minnesota, the defensive line was stout, the linebackers were solid, and the secondary, with a few exceptions, were lights out. They still made Sam Bradford look good on the stat sheet, but they helped put a loss on the Vikings.</p>
<h2 id="VmfAe9">Joe Marciano, ST: Stock Down</h2>
<p id="bOLybj">I didn’t want to cop this one out and have it unchanged. The kicking unit was spectacular in this one: Don Muhlbach snapped well, Sam Martin held perfectly and Matt Prater’s kicks were all exactly where they needed to go. The rest of the units weren’t great, and were at some points very bad. The final kick return of the game in overtime was fielded at about the 3 and Andre Roberts could only get it to the 13. That’s some poor blocking and poor return ability—10 yards isn’t very far to run. The special teams units didn’t lose the game for the Lions, but they did make both offense and defense work harder than they needed to.</p>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/6/13543174/detroit-lions-stock-report-half-a-game-out-matthew-stafford-golden-tate-eric-ebron-shine-win-vikingsKent Lee Platte