Week 17, 2019 Detroit Lions vs Green Bay Packers @ Home

2019.

The 3-12-1 Detroit Lions lose another close one to the division winning 13-3 Green Bay Packers 20-23. This game made it 14 out of 16 games that the Lions had a lead at some point in the game. Anyone who wants the Lions to draft offense in round 1 needs to re-evaluate the situation to be sure there isn't a difference maker in the 2020 draft that could help the Lions defense.

David Blough was 12 of 29 (41.38%) for a whole 122 yards and no TDs along with 1 interception. Yet that doesn't mean the Lions need a better backup QB, it means they need a better offensive line. But in order to obtain a better offensive line, you don't always need to draft OL in the first round. There are quality guards and even right tackles on day 2 and day 3 of the draft. The Lions also had 170 yards rushing with Kerryon Johnson the only RB to score a rushing TD. I think with better OL play and perhaps a new OL coach the Lions could have a pretty decent run game next year if all the RBs are signed for next year. That doesn't mean you can't draft another in the 2020 draft, it just isn't quite as big of an issue as it would otherwise be. The passing TD was thrown by WR Amendola, to Blough, who ran in untouched for the score in what was a lovely bit of trickery that didn't happen enough during 2019 if you ask me, even though earlier in the year there was a flea flicker that was a thing of beauty as well.

The Lions defense allowed Aaron Rodgers to go a very poor 27 of 55 (49.09%) for a very large number of yards (323 yards) and 2 TDs as well as one interception. The Lions defense also allowed 120 yards rushing without an scores. The Lions held the lead until the 4th quarter when the Packers finally tied up the game then with two possessions after the 2 minute warning, scored the game winning field goal as time expired. Once again, the Lions need a game changer on defense, actually, more then one. Luckily they'll have somewhere above $45 million in salary cap space to work with, though half that will be used to re-sign guys that would otherwise go in free agency... that is... if they evaluate them and decide they are all worth keeping and the player and his agent agrees with the offers. The normal off season kinds of stuff. Also normal is team firings on Monday after the final game of the season, which is Dec 30th (tomorrow) and I am still hopeful there will be an announcement from the Lions that they will be needing a new defensive coordinator.

So ends the 2019 season. The upcoming off season may include the Lions coaching in the senior-bowl, which could give them some much needed time with the draft prospects that are seniors this year. We also get to wait for all the juniors to declare that are leaving college early, and then there is the even longer wait for the combine towards the end of February. As Lions fans, we all know the drill. It's just a matter now of seeing if the Redskins can beat the Cowboys to determine the Lions draft position.

Week 16, 2019 Detroit Lions @ Denver Broncos

Go Redskins!

The 3-11-1 Detroit Lions lose to the 6-9 Denver Broncos 17-27 at Mile High Stadium.

David Blough was a horrid 12 of 24 (50%) for only 117 yards with 1 TD an 0 INTs. The three RBs (Bo, KJ, and Ty) totaled 96 yards and no TDs. Agnew had one TD on a punt return, the only bright spot of the game.

The Lions defense allowed Drew Lock of the Denver Broncos to go 25 of 33 (75.76%) for 192 yards and 1 TD with 0 INTs. They also allowed the Broncos to rush for 151 yards and 2 TDs.

Now to be fair, the Lions were playing without their starting left guard, their starting right tackle, their starting tight end, their starting quarterback, their second string quarterback and a number of defensive players as well. However, fully healthy the defense would still be looking bad in my opinion, though I do believe Stafford could've helped the Lions win at least 4 or 5 of the games they ended up losing because he was unable to play.

The Lions now hold the 3rd overall pick in the 2020 draft. If the Lions lose next week they could draft #2 overall (Bengals get the first overall pick now no matter what happens) if the Redskins can beat the Cowboys next week. The latest the Lions could draft is 5th overall now should they win against the Packers. Go Redskins!

The Lions play the Green Bay Packers at home in the final game of the 2019 season. The only way the Lions win that game is if the Packers sit their starters, and even that might not be enough. Meanwhile, Quinn (the GM) and Patricia (the head coach) were told they won't be fired at seasons' end and have one more year to get the Lions in playoff contention (whatever that means).

Week 15, 2019 Detroit Lions vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Home

Observation.

The 3-10-1 Detroit Lions lose to the 7-7 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17-38 in a game that saw nearly half the Lion's starters not play on offense and defense due to injury. Not that that is an excuse, more of an observation really.

Third string QB David Blough went 24 of 43 (55.81%) for 260 yards no TDs and 2 INTs (he only had like 56 yards in the first half). Somebody name Wes Hills played starting RB (up from the practice squad) and he had 10 carries for 21 yards and 2 TDs. The entire stat for rushing only added up to 45 yards and the QB Blough had 19 of them. Ty Johnson lost a fumble to go with that. Talk about domination by the Bucs. This makes two weeks in a row in which the offense was just about as bad as the defense. Of course not everyone will agree with me on this, it's just my observation of the way things went.

The Lions defense allowed Jameis Winston to go 28 of 42 (66.667%) for 458 yards and 2 TDs with 1 INT. The Lions allowed only 49 yards rushing, so they finally managed to control a team's running game, more or less. The defense is in dire need of a superstar to go with Slay and Flowers. My hope is that they find that player in day one of the 2020 draft.

Next week the Lions go to Denver to play the 5-9 Broncos. With all the Lions players on IR or playing hurt and considering how many 3rd,4th or even 5th string players are starting, it's very unlikely the Lions will win that game, but it's not impossible.

Fans of the NFL Draft and the Lions are okay with the losses at this point, since each makes it more likely the Lions get a higher draft pick, yet at the same time I've been observing more and more concern as to whether Quinn should be the one doing the drafting. Same observation goes for the coaching staff, more and more I see fans wanting to replace everyone on the coaching staff except maybe the OC Bevell. I don't think that's the way to go, but I'm also not in Allen Park so I don't know for sure if there is more to it then the product on the field or not. Assuming there are no other reasons for firing the coaching staff, then it's likely they get one more season to prove they deserve the job. The only way that happens is if Quinn remains in charge, so that would mean one more Quinn draft as well. If next year isn't a good year for the Lions it would likely mean a complete sweep of the front office and coaching staff, assuming it doesn't happen before then. For now, the Lions remain the 5th worst team in the NFL and would be drafting 5th overall if the season ended today.

Week 14, 2019 Detroit Lions @ Minnesota Vikings

Improving their draft spot.

The 3-9-1 Detroit Lions lose easily to the 9-4 Minnesota Vikings 7-20 and for the very first time in 2019 did not have the lead even once in the game (they had a lead in all 12 previous games at least once). It was debatable going into the 4th quarter if the Lions would even break 100 total yards on offense. At least the Lions are improving their draft spot.

David Blough, the undrafted rookie QB for the Lions, went 24 of 40 (60%) for 205 yards 1 TD and 2 INTs. Bo Scarbrough went for 65 yards on 19 carries with the backup RBs getting 5 more yards on 3 carries. It was a pretty anemic offensive day for the Lions. But at least they are improving their draft spot.

The Lions defense allowed Kirk Cousins to go 24 of 30 (80%) for 240 yards 1 TD and 0 INTs. The Lions defense also allowed 120 yards rushing and a touchdown by Cook. Allowing any QB to complete 80% of their passes should be unacceptable as well as unlikely, but at least the Lions are improving their draft spot.

Next week the Lions host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who are 6-7 right now, I won't be placing any bets on the Lions for that game either. At present the Lions would be drafting in the 5th position, a one spot improvement from last weeks 6 spot. I think they can do better then that yet, we just need to wait for the results of each games to find out.

Week 13, 2019 Detroit Lions vs Chicago Bears @ Home

Adjustments.

The 3-8-1 Detroit Lions lost once again to the 6-6 Chicago Bears on Thanksgiving day by a score of 20-24. For the 12th time out of 12 times this year the Lions had the lead at one point in the game (in this case, the entire first half). For the 8th time this year the Lions blew the lead and then lost the game. I hadn't kept track how many times the lead change happened after half time like it did in this game, but to me that means the opposing team is making half time adjustments and the Lions can't counter.

The Lions were forced to play their 3rd string QB, David Blough, due to injury. Blough went 22 of 38 (57.89%) for 280 yards with 2 TDs and 1 INT (last play by the offense as they were driving for the winning TD). Bo Scarbrough rushed for 83 yards on 21 carries, whole the rest of the RBs (and 1 yard by the QB) went another 22 more yards for a total team rushing stat of 105 yards. Why it wasn't half again more then that I don't know, but normally you would if you don't outsmart yourself, which seems to be a common theme these days.

The Lions defense allowed Mitchell Trubisky to go 29 of 38 (76.32%) for 338 yards and 3 TDs and 1 INT (only the 4th one this year by the Lions). The Lions defense also allowed the Bears to rush for 88 yards. The defense also only managed 1 sack by Flowers this game, I'm sure they make adjustments during the game but I'm not seeing results, of any kind really. To have the lead in every single game of the season only to lose 8 times (and tie once) is a testament to how poor the defense is playing.

I did some research on the job that Quinn has done, finding that there are no undrafted free agents that the Lions had choose on the 2019 roster from any year other then 2019. I also found that every single player on the roster was either found and signed by Quinn or was originally signed by Mayhew and has had a contract extension by Quinn since he started as GM 4 years ago. I didn't count how many other free agents that Quinn had signed over the past 4 years and are no longer on the team, but needless to say, it's a lot. So the entire roster is all Quinn. Now a large number of the players are young, and they may be able to turn things around with experience, or it's possible the coaching staff is incapable of coaching the players up. It's possible they aren't being used correctly, it's also possible that they are. I can't know, since no one is really saying much about it, yet. Still, most GMs get 5 years to prove themselves and most coaches get 3 years, both of which amounts to the end of next season (the 2020 season). So while it's possible that this will be the last year of this regime, it's probably slightly more likely that they will have next year to prove they are capable of doing the job despite it being 3-8-1 right now.

The Lions play the (currently) 8-3 Minnesota Vikings away in 10 days, I don't anticipate it going the Lions way simply because the team has not proven that they can get a lead and maintain it to the end of the game. I also don't anticipate the coaching staff to make enough adjustments to how they do things despite the few extra days they will have to prepare for it. Depending on how the other teams do today and Sunday (and Monday) we may be finding out the Lions will be looking at drafting in the top 5 in 2020 (they are at 7 right now I do believe). If Quinn does remain the GM and if the coaching staff remains at least partially intact (got to get rid of a scapegoat somewhere, probably the DC)... I pray they select a great player in the first round, a difference maker, one that can make plays to turn an entire game around all by themselves. That probably means someone on D and probably someone on the DL at that, though I can't rule out DB or LB. They need someone who is disruptive on defense, and they must get it right along with the rest of the draft and even the undrafted players after the draft. Someone they can use to make adjustments in game, every week, in order to secure wins. I hate talking draft in November, but that's where we are, so let's make it the last time we have to do so for many years.

Week 12, 2019 Detroit Lions @ Washington Redskins

Too many mistakes, still.

The 3-7-1 Detroit Lions lost to the 2-9 Washington Redskins 16-19. There was just too many mistakes, still.

Jeff Driskel was 20 of 33 (60.6%) for 207 yards with 1 TD and 3 INTs. Bo Scarbrough had 98 yards on 18 carries and 1 fumble that was lost to the Redskins. Kicker Prater missed his first field goal attempt, but made the other three. Since it ended up being a 3 point game some will blame Prater even though it happened in the first quarter.

The Detroit Defense allowed Dwayne Haskins to only go 13 of 29 (44.83%) for 156 yards 0 TDs and 1 INT. They also allowed them to get a mere 86 yards rushing with no TDs. Special teams had a kick off return for a TD though. The rest were field goals, all made.

Considering how little the Redskins actually produced in total, the only thing to blame, once again, is the Lions themselves. They've played in 11 games so far and had the lead at least once in all 11 games. Yet they can not pad the lead nor stop the opponents when needed. It's pretty much the same thing every week, like a broken record. I do not know the exact reason why the Lions team is broken, but I suspect that fixing it will require some coaching changes. Maybe. Maybe it's truly a health issue. Maybe the depth just can't play mistake free football. Either way, the front office and the coaching staff has to accept the blame for the record, such as it is.

Next week the Lions play at home against the Chicago Bears. While the Lions should win that game, they probably will make too many mistakes in order to win. Why should they suddenly play mistake free in week 13 when they haven't for the 11 games prior.

Week 11, 2019 Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys @ Home

Next Year.

The 3-6-1 Detroit Lions lost to the 6-4 Dallas Cowboys 27 to 35 effectively taking the Lions out of playoff contention this season for all intents and purposes even if not yet mathematically (one more loss will do that).

Jeff Driskel was 15 of 26 (57.692%) for 209 yards 2 TDs and no INTs. The runners managed to rush for 121 yards and 2 TDs, including the newest RB, Bo Scarbrough, a player I had been hoping the Lions would've drafted the year Dallas drafted him in the 7th round.

The Lions defense however allowed Dak Prescott to go 29 of 46 (63.04%) for 444 yards and 3 TDs with no INTs. The Lions defense also allowed 75 yards rushing and another TD for Elliott.

There is still no word on when (or even if) Matthew Stafford will be back to work, but then again, unless he can play defense as well as QB then there is really no reason to rush him back on the field.

What I don't really understand though, is the Lions defense last year (the 2nd half of the year) and this year are so completely different, and yet most of the players are the same. Coleman instead of Lawson, Flowers instead of Ansah, plus a few others added through the draft and free agency, all of which should (on paper) have been upgrades, and yet the D is worse then last year. Last year though there was a lot (as in A LOT) more blitzing where as this year it happens seldom (though often effective when used). I don't know the exact usage difference but I seem to recall that Davis did a lot of blitzing be they delayed or designed, and this year it seems to rarely happen.

I doubt the front office is in danger of losing their jobs, and thus the coaching staff is probably safe for one more year, but I have to believe they must start showing improvement before too much longer or we'll be rebuilding from the ground up once again, and four times in two decades is not something I'm looking forward to.

At the present time, with 6 games to go for most teams, the Lions are looking at picking 10th overall in the first round. The Lions also have just under $20 million in salary cap space available that if unused this year will roll over into next year. There is just no reason for the team not to do what needs doing and begin to have success. Maybe too late this year, but unless something major occurs I don't see why there should be any reason for next year not to be highly successful.

Egads, I just said something similar to "just wait until next year"... how the Lions make me do that so often is another fact I wish didn't happen. Half way through November and we're once again looking at the off season moves and draft. Shame really.

Week 10, 2019 Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears

Very underwhelming.

The 3-5-1 Detroit Lions lose to the 4-5 Chicago Bears with a score of 13-20. Matthew Stafford sat this one out with a back injury so getting his first start as a Lion was Jeff Driskel. That worked out just about as well as you would expect, very underwhelming.

Jeff Driskel was 27 of 46 (58.7%) for 269 yards and 1 TD along with 1 INT (straight to the opponent). Now it was nice to watch a QB who can run a 4.59 40 yard dash, making him just a tiny bit slower then the RBs, but I'm hopeful Stafford gets well soon, like now. Driskel had 5 carries for the team leading 37 rushing yards. McKissic had 10 carries for 36 rushing yards. Ty Johnson had 5 carries for 16 yards before he went under the concussion protocol (so out of the game in the first quarter). Total rushing yards for the Lions was 98 yards and no TDs. Very underwhelming.

The Lions defense actually had some improvement in their rushing D allowing only 81 yards but they allowed Mitchell Trubisky to go 16 of 23 (69.57%) for 173 yards and 3 TDs with no INTs passing. The complete lack of blitzes by the Lions defense is beginning to drive me crazy, but I digress. The defense for the Lions was able to get some stops, and some three and outs, but not one turnover, again. Before this game the Lions defense was ranked one of the three worst in the NFL. Very underwhelming.

The Lions next game is at home at 1pm next Sunday against the 5-3 Dallas Cowboys (they are playing the Minnesota Vikings Sunday night). There are currently 9 NFC teams with a record above .500, the odds of the Lions knocking 4 of those teams out of the wildcard race is approaching single digits. In fact, it won't be long and we might be talking about who the Lions will draft with a top 10 pick once again. Since I still don't want to talk about the draft in November just yet, I'll just keep on hoping for that miracle.

Oh what the heck, let's show one draft paragraph now, just in case. Currently the draft order is as follows:

1 Cincinnati 0-9 .000
2 Washington 1-8 .111
3 NY Giants 2-8 .200
4 Miami 2-7 .222
5 NY Jets 2-7 .222
6 Atlanta 2-7 .222
7 Cleveland 3-6 .333
8 Tampa Bay 3-6 .333
9 Denver 3-6 .333
10 Arizona 3-6-1 .350
11 Detroit 3-5-1 .389
12 LA Chargers 4-6 .400

Sad, isn't it? Yep, very underwhelming.

Week 9, 2019 Detroit Lions @ Oakland Raiders

Too Many Mistakes (again)

The 3-4-1 Detroit Lions made too many mistakes (again) and lost to the 4-4 Oakland Raiders with a score of 24-31. In a weekend that saw all the division rivals also lose their matches, the Lions couldn't help themselves with a win to gain on all 3 of the NFC North teams.

Matthew Stafford was 26 of 41 (63.41%) for 406 yards, 3 TDs and 1 (costly) INT (in the end zone early in the game) and one fumble. The ground game managed to rush for 90 yards between 5 individuals and got no TDs.

The defense allowed Derek Carr to go 20 of 31 (64.52%) for 290 yards 2 TDs and no INT. The Lions defense also allowed the Raiders to rush for 171 yards and 2 more TDs.

There were penalties for too many men on the field by the Lions. False starts. Holding and interference calls. So many it's hard to remember them all. The fumble was during a hand off from Stafford to McKissic, who appeared to me to be looking where to go instead of focusing on securing the football, but the QB always gets the stat on handoffs and maybe it was his fault, but whoever did it it still counts as a mistake by the Lions. The INT by Stafford was a jump ball to Golladay who usually does come down with those but this time he was outside and the ball was just a bit inside, of course Golladay landed out of bounds so me thinks he was too far outside to begin with, which means the ball was more or less on target... but I don't want to appear to be excusing Stafford's play, as there were plenty of other throws that were not quite where they needed to be (and even more that were spot on). Regardless of who is to blame, Stafford made too many mistakes... the OL made too many mistakes... the entire defense made too many mistakes... but the officials only made a couple which was a nice change.

There is no way I could pick one thing that made it so the Lions lost this game, other then to say the obvious, too many mistakes (again). Seems to be a theme this year. Anyway, the Lions had a perfect opportunity to gain ground in the division but didn't lose any ground instead with the rest of the division also losing, still when you got 4 games to make up you can't afford to make these mistakes... especially with half the season already gone.

The Lions now travel to Chicago to play the 3-5 Bears. The Lions can no longer afford to lose any game (in my opinion) so they better figure out how to focus and make fewer mistakes from here on out, or the season will be lost in November (again).

Week 8, 2019 Detroit Lions vs NY Giants @ Home

All Game.

The 3-3-1 Detroit Lions managed to beat the 2-6 New York Giants at home with a 31-26 score. Had the defense not scored a TD on a fumble recovery early in the game the Lions may not have won today. Injuries to the DBs forced the Lions to put in their 3rd stringers as starters for the 2nd half, which is not surprising, since the Lions just traded Safety/CB Diggs to Seattle this past week. Overall though, the Lions were up and down all game and eeked out a win.

Matthew Stafford was 25 of 32 (78.125%) for 342 yards 3 TDs and 1 INT. The run game, led by one Tra Carson (who had 34 yards on 12 carries) totaled 59 rushing yards with 5 different runners. KJ might not be all that, but he's going to be missed (he's on IR now). The defense for the Lions managed to allow the rookie QB Daniel Jones complete 28 of 41 (68.29%) for 322 yards and 4 TDs with no INT (but one backwards throw that is recorded as a fumble). The run defense was slightly improved, only allowing 80 yards (64 to Barkley) but they also allowed Barkley to catch 8 passes for 79 yards, only being topped by Golden Tate who had 85 yards. Many of those throws were to wide open receivers, so it's quite amazing the Lions won at all... yet the Lions scored first (ala defense) and never once lost the lead all game.

The officiating was at times a little bit frustrating, but no where near as bad as the past few games. The Lions themselves also made many errors, but once again, not quite as bad as the past three games. Perhaps this will generate a little bit of confidence that might carry over into next week's game against the Oakland Raiders for the first of two away games. To win the Raiders and Bears games away the Lions will need to clean up their errors and play well, all game. The up and down alternating good and bad plays have to get turned around, and quickly.

The Lions are now in 3rd in the division, as the Bears lost today by 1 point (failing to hit a field goal as time expired). After the Raiders the Lions play the Bears twice in 18 days (due to the Thanksgiving day game)... all the next 5 games are critical... they must be wins if the Lions want any hope of making the playoffs. Not sure yet if they can pull that off. The Lions confidence might have improved, but mine has not. Not when you keep making mistakes every game all game.

Week 7, 2019 Minnesota Vikings vs Detroit Lions @ Home

Hoping.

The 2-3-1 Detroit Lions lost to the 5-2 Minnesota Vikings 30-42 at Ford Field today. Unlike the Monday night game against the Lions, the officiating this game was much less controversial. However, injuries played a huge part in the loss. Not to say if the injuries hadn't happened the Lions would have won, but I do believe the score would have been much closer. The Lions still managed to do things wrong aiding the other team to win, as they have done every game this season so far (not that all were loses). I wonder if the coaches and players can ever get their act together for a complete game, here's hoping.

Matthew Stafford was 30 of 45 (66.667%) for 364 yards 4 TDs and 1 INT. The offense always gained 81 yards on the ground. Meanwhile the defense allowed Kirk Cousins to go 24 of 34 (70.59%) for 337 yards 4 TDs and no interceptions. The Lions defense also allowed the Vikings offense to rush for 166 yards. This was mostly a game of defense, or the lack thereof, and the Vikings defense outplayed the Lions defense. Prior to the game a couple of the Lions defensive starters were inactive and during the game more then half the starters ended up out for at least part if not the larger portion of the game. I'm hoping they can all get healed up this week for the next game.

Next week the Lions play the 2-5 New York Giants at home. There can be no excuse for them to not win this game. Should they lose I predict the Lions will be drafting in the top 5 again next April. Here's hoping that is not the case. The Lions absolutely must go on a lengthy win streak if they want to have any hope of a post season this year at all. I'm much less confident of that happening then I was just a couple of weeks ago.

Week 5 = Bye, Week 6 2019 Detroit Lions @ Green Bay Packers

Incorrect.

The 2-2-1 Detroit Lions were beat by the NFL refs, err, I mean the 5-1 Green Bay Packers by a score of 23-22. Now it's true the Lions settled over and over for field goals instead of getting touchdowns. It's also true they led the game from the opening series all the way until the final 2 seconds, and the only reason the Packers were able to win was due to some great play by the Packers and even better penalties (or lack thereof) that kept the Packers in the game. The announcers know it, my local news guy knows it, my friends and family know it, and all Lions fans know it. Only some Packers fans will deny it, and that's fine, that's what fans do. The NFL will get all kinds of complaints, they will apologize to the Lions, and the Lions will still be 2-2-1 and not get the calls the next time they play. What should happen is that official should be fired. Tomorrow. Never to call an NFL game again. But I'm sure that won't happen either, as there are no consequences for repeatedly getting the calls wrong in the NFL. Nothing happens when the officials are incorrect.

Matthew Stafford was 18 of 32 (56.25%) for 265 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. The offense gained 56 rushing, which is horrible while the defense allowed 170 yards rushing and allowed Aaron Rodgers to go 24 of 39 (61.54%) for 283 yards 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. Yet it was the two hands to the face calls against Trey Flowers (his hands were never once in the dudes face, but the dude did have his hands in Flowers face the second time) and the no call for pass interference when the Lions were driving to regain a two score lead that really affected the game the most... though there were other calls that were a bit one sided, not called or made up completely that also contributed. Now why the Lions didn't challenge the no call on pass interference I don't know, that is a coaching mistake. In the end, the Lions went toe to toe against a good team, would've won, but did not. As incorrect as that may be.

Next week the Lions go against the refs, err, the Minnesota Vikings at home, I'm just going to predict a loss right now, since the Lions are probably really upset and it's only take one thing going wrong that shouldn't to get them into the doldrums and blow the game. Unless, that is, they are more resilient then I give them credit for, which would make me incorrect.

Once more, I'll just say, the NFL really should remove that official from the league to show their are consequences for throwing a game... even if the only reason he blew it was due to needing glasses, which I doubt is the case, but you never know. I do know he was incorrect, more then once, and it did in fact matter this game.

Week 4, 2019 Kansas City Chiefs vs the Detroit Lions @ Home

Mistakes.

The 2-1-1 Detroit Lions gave away game 4 of the 2019 season to the 4-0 Kansas City Chiefs 30-34. Of course the national talking heads say the Lions played well and the Chiefs played poorly but managed a win anyway. I think it was more an equal matchup then anything, with the difference being one too many mistakes by the losing team. Both teams did a lot of things right, but both teams messed things up a bit here and there too. Overall, it was another nail biter that the Lions defense gave up the losing TD... no wait... it was the offense the fumbled in the endzone and the chiefs ran it back for a TD... or was it the TD catch that was called incomplete after the review showed some air between the ball and the body so the process was once again not completed. Yeah it was all those things, but any one of them would have made the difference in a 4 point game. What's worse, had those calls all gone the Lions way (we're talking inches here, if that much) the Lions might have actually won this game by multiple scores. So you national talking heads, the Lions did not play well, they played just as well as the Chiefs, which is to say, with mistakes.

Matthew Stafford was 21 of 34 (61.76%) for 291 yards 3 touchdowns and no interceptions and 1 fumble lost. The offense also produced 186 yards of rushing plays (18 by Stafford). I already mentioned the fumble that was returned for a touchdown, that was Kerryon Johnson trying to score a TD on another rushing play. Overall though, the Lions scored 30 points, it might have been more with fewer mistakes, but usually 30 is adequate to win a football game.

Now the defense did a lot right too. They allowed Patrick Mahommes to go only 24 of 42 (57.14%) for 315 yards (lots of yards after the catch) and no touchdowns and no interceptions along with 54 yards rushing (converting some key third downs). Overall the Lions defense allowed a total of 123 yards rushing and 3 TDs and recovered 3 fumbles. In other words, some really good plays to mix in with some mistakes. Not there were a lot of mistakes, just poorly timed ones as it turns out.

It was a game that was both fun to watch and moments of suspense that could test the heart of any Lions fan. It means the Lions are improving as they can hang with a top 5 team, and if they can limit even one more key mistake in this kind of game, they could beat that team. The Lions have a bye week for week 5, so no Lions football for 2 weeks. That's good though, Lions were playing without some starters, namely slot WR Amendola, both 3 tech DTs and their top CB Slay (S Diggs when out early, CB Ford was also out for part of the game and TE Hockenson went down in the 2nd half into the concussion protocol when he failed to hurdle the defender he was trying to hurdle). As it turns out, the Lions need a week off to heal up before they head to Green Bay in a very important divisional game. Here's hoping for fewer mistakes (for the Lions) that game.

Week 3, 2019 Detroit Lions @ Philadelphia Eagles

Just Enough

The 2-0-1 Detroit Lions narrowly defeated the 1-2 Philadelphia Eagles 27-24. It was an edge of the seat type of a game where the Lions could have won (as in put the game away) a number of times, or got behind and eventually lose a number of times, right up to the final seconds of the game. Mistakes were made by both teams, and mistakes were made by many a Lion at different points in the game. It was not a sure thing at any time and it was not a clean game. It was just enough, barely.

Matthew Stafford was 18 of 32 (56.25%) for 201 yards and a TD with no INT and perhaps most importantly for the offensive line, no sacks. While the completion percentage was down from where I'd prefer it to be, and there were some errant throws, there were also times when it was better to throw it away... besides, Stafford's numbers for this game are nearly identical to Rodgers stats in their Denver game (that they won today) so it's hard to point a mean finger at the QB even if there are definitely things he needs to clear up if they are to have any hope next week. The run game resulted in 86 yards total, but 44 of those came from one play by McKissic.

The Lions defense allowed Carson Wentz to complete 19 of 36 passes (52.78%) for 259 yards and 2 TDs and no INTs. There was 127 yards rushing allowed as well. However, there was a couple of fumble recoveries and a couple of sacks that, along with penalties, both helped and hurt the Lions cause. Overall it was just enough for a win.

I could rag some more on the coaches, but the team had the odds of losing set at 7.5 so to get a win, even if it got close and was at times kind of ugly, is a victory, as in, just enough of a decent game plan to make it work.

Next week the Lions have the 3-0 Kansas City Chiefs coming to town, a team that just beat the pretty decent defense of the Baltimore Ravens today. The Lions are going to need some top notch play from the O, D and special teams (along with coaching) to do just enough to win that game... and even then it might not be enough. Let's just say I'm not placing any bets on the Lions next week.

Week 2 2019 Detroit Lions vs LA Chargers @ Home

A whole lot.

The 1-0-1 Detroit Lions narrowly beat the 1-1 LA Chargers at home week two with a score of 13-10. Mistakes (a whole lot of them) were made by both teams, including missed field goals, extra points, dropped passes, interceptions, penalties (a whole lot of them too) and even some questionable coaching decisions (again). So a normal week two game in other words. In the end though, the scoreboard shows the Lions as the winning team, which due to other scores around the league puts the Lions in 2nd place in the division behind the Packers.

Matthew Stafford was 22 of 30 (73.33%) for 245 yards 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions (though one INT was solely due to the WR muffing the catch in the endzone and hitting the ball into the defenders hands). The offense managed to put up 94 yards rushing using all the running backs (except for the fullback) that were active. All the TEs had at least one catch as well. In fact, Amendola is the only WR to not have a catch in the game, so the ball was definitely shared around. But the biggest news on offense, and this is despite starting Crosby at left tackle and Dahl at left guard, Stafford was sacked ZERO times, that's a whole lot different then usual.

Now the defense kept Phillip Rivers to 21 of 36 (58.33%) for 293 yards no touchdowns and one interception. But the Lions defense also allowed 137 yards rushing. So apparently the game plan was not to stop the run as much as the pass, and it worked, barely.

The coaching was a bit better, even though I think the Lions should have been calling timeouts at the end of the 2nd quarter when they had the Chargers penned back at their 5 yard line with about a minute to go, they might have been able to get the ball back around mid-field and possibly get themselves in a position for another field goal attempt (not going to say points, as Prater missed an extra point and a field goal this game). Basically, at different times during the game, mistakes were made by all the normal culprits, and yet, they created some issues for the Chargers as well, and ended up with the winning score, so I'm not going to be too critical this week... I'll save that for later if it'll be needed.

Next week the Lions play the Eagles in Philadelphia, a team I'll be watching Sunday night. Hopefully the Lions can continue to work on what needs work and put on a better show next week, just for my hearts sake... I'm not enjoying the ups and downs of these too close games. I am enjoying the Lions haven't lost a game yet in 2019 (ties don't count as a loss my friends) and are only a half game behind the Packers for the lead in the division, so that more then anything is why I would love to see a win against the Eagles, but that can only happen if the Lions can tighten things up a whole lot by next weekend.

Week 1 2019... Detroit Lions @ the Arizona Cardinals

Coaching.

The 0-0-1 Detroit Lions tied the 0-0-1 Arizona Cardinals 27-27 in week 1 of the 2019 season. The Lions played a dominating game for two and a half quarters, then the Cardinals started making their move (or is it moves). Helped along by what would have been a game winning first down that never happened in the fourth quarter (because the coaches called a last second time out that no player knew about) the Lions never were able to get back their swagger. The team wasn't ready to play (which seems like this will be a regular thing every year for the first few weeks) and the lack of a win this game can be easily blamed on the coaching... and the offensive line (looking at you Decker) and I suppose I have to add in Agnew who muffed a punt and Stafford who lost a fumble (when the DE smacked him in the blind side due to Decker). Mostly though, I blame coaching.

Stafford was 27 of 45 (60%) for 385 yards 3 TDs 0 INTs and 1 Fumble lost. There was also 32 run plays for 116 yards, of which 3 were from Stafford for 22 yards, so without the QB runs they would've failed to surpass 100 yards. Almost makes me think that firing Cooter hasn't improved anything and may have done the opposite, but it's early yet, and who knows, maybe the coaching will improve?

By the way, the first round TE they selected in the 2019 draft was lead yards with 6 catches for 131 yards, but Amendola had more catches making for 7 catches and 104 yards. So the additions to the team appear to be contributing well.

Now the Lions defense started off terrific then couldn't stop a rookie QB from tying up the game. Rookie Kyler Murray was 29 of 54 (53.7%) for 308 yards 2 TDs and 1 INT and no fumbles. The defense also allowed 23 run plays for 112 yards.

Pretty much every Lions fan and some Cardinals fans would all agree the Lions should have won this game. But they barely managed to end the game with a tie after being up 3 scores at one point... even losing the lead in overtime for one series. It was a horribly coached game to watch in my opinion. But, just like last year, I expect things will get better. They pretty much have to... or it will get ugly. Now when I say coaching I'm not just talking play calling, or clock management, or timeouts, or anything else that went wrong during the game... as I am talking all of that... but I am also talking having the players conditioned enough to make it to the end of the game still playing well, and ready to play to win without letting up off the gas. All of it, pretty much from the end of July to a couple of hours ago.

Next week the Lions play home against the LA Chargers, who barely won their game today against the Colts and a rookie QB by a score of 30 to 24 in overtime. Appears on paper to be an evenly matched game coming next week. Of course the paper doesn't show the coaching, so both teams are up against it somewhat. My prediction, the Lions win by a point (if the crowd is loud when the Lions are on defense). Because believe you me, the coaches will need all the help they can get... from the players and from the fans. But after today the fans might not be so patient, so I hope the 1st quarter goes well in favor of the Lions to keep everyone feeling good (versus how the fans feel now, which is somewhere between sick to their stomach and angry).

NFL Draft 2019 Day 3

...then for the grand finale.

The Lions traded away one of their 6th round pick Friday night to move up for their 3rd round pick (Will Harris) which means they started the last day of the 2019 draft with 5 picks. Then, when on the clock in the 4th round, they traded down a little over a handful of picks (6) and gained a 6th round pick back, giving them their original number of draft picks for today, a total of 6.

With the 117th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft the Detroit Lions select... DE Austin Bryant from Clemson. Austin is a tick under 6'4" tall and weighs in at 271 pounds. He was unable to be measured for anything else due to an injury he suffered in November (though he finished the season before having corrective surgery as I recall). Obviously playing hurt isn't a thing to worry about with him. One article had this to say "Bryant was part of one of the best defensive lines in the nation, finishing the 2018 season with 8.5 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, and 45 tackles in 15 games played. His best game likely came against Notre Dame when he recorded two sacks, six tackles, and two TFLs to help propel Clemson to the national title game." Due to the lack of measurables, there is no RAS score to report.

One draft guide has this to say on Austin:

OUTLOOK: Perhaps the greatest statement about just how much talent has been playing along the defensive line for Clemson is the fact that the prototypically-built Bryant - and his 35 career tackles for loss, 20 sacks and penchant for making big plays in big moments - is expected to be selected fourth among the Tigers' fearsome front. And yet Bryant is viewed by some as a potential first round pick. He looks the part of an NFL edge rusher with broad shoulders, a tapered, athletic frame and long limbs. Flashes excellent initial quickness, timing his get-off with the ball to cross the face of right tackles and showing the quickness to counter back inside. Equally explosive off the ball out of the two or three-point stance, offering his future NFL team a great deal of schematic versatility. A flexible athlete with the agility, bend and closing speed to be very effective on twists and stunts. Accelerates quickly, generating impressive power as a tackler, creating some big collisions and forcing two fumbles in 2017. Uses his long arms to lasso ball-carriers in the open field, wrapping them up for the secure stop. Shows some awareness of passing lanes, getting his hands up and showing good timing on his leaps to hamper the view of quarterbacks. Lack of playing time is evident in how long it takes him to process the action, too often hesitating and reacting only after the ball is moving. Does not currently show a wide variety of pass rush moves and hand technique, relying mostly on pure speed, a counter back inside, a bull rush and the variety of twists and stunts utilized by the Clemson coaching staff. Has undergone surgery on both feet for the same injury (broken fifth metatarsal), which warranted further investigation at the NFL Combine. He possesses impressive initial quickness and agility for a man of his size and should only improve with greater strength and repetitions, offering big upside.

The same guide has Austin ranked .1 points above Winovich, who the Patriots drafted. I had him ranked 162 (or a 5th round grade), but I also had no combine info to go by. It is well known he needs a study NFL diet and weight training, which he is about to encounter full time now, but while he's learning he'll be eased into the rotation. The total number of snaps depends on how hard he works and how fast he learns. Some highlights... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YU8_Xp8r04. Fans who were distraught that the Lions did not address the Edge position can now take it all back, as they managed to do so in the 4th round (and before I hear complaints about it being the 4th round, just remember, DT Hand was a 4th round pick last year).

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With the 146th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft the Detroit Lions select... CB Amani Oruwariye from Penn State. Now we're talking! I have Amani ranked 50th overall (a 2nd round grade) and his RAS score is 8.53 (elite). At 6' 1 5/8" tall and weighing in at 205 pounds Amani fits the proverbial CB suit. Combine that with a 4.47 forty and you definitely have something to work with.

Some highlights if you're interested. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m77fgzCnXjo

This draft guide doesn't have a profile on him, but nfl.com does, so here we are; "Oruwariye (pronounced OH-rue-war-ee-AY) began to show his potential as a lockdown corner his junior season in 2017, earning second-team All-Big Ten honors despite not starting in 11 games played. He intercepted four passes and broke up eight others as a reserve, making 28 tackles. Oruwariye was a starter in 2018, earning first-team all-conference nod by leading the Nittany Lions with 12 pass breakups and tying for the team lead with three interceptions, to go along with 51 tackles (two for loss) in 13 starts. He was a reserve as a freshman (five tackles, one PBU in 13 games) and sophomore, as well, though his playing time was more significant in 2016 (23 tackles, one INT, one PBU).

Overview
He can be an effective press-man defender, but must win at the line of scrimmage or he could become an early target for quarterbacks as he lacks makeup speed once he's beaten. Oruwariye is a proven disruptor at the catch point and is willing to step up and take on run support duties. When all factors are considered, he'll be considered a scheme fit for zone-heavy teams who covet physicality in press.

Strengths
Big cornerback with above-average length
Wins the eyeball test at weigh-ins
Can beat receivers up when he gets early hands on them
Good recognition and reaction in zone coverage
Impressive finding and playing football from trail
Good recognition of double moves
Physical traits restrict catch space outside numbers
Outstanding on-ball production over last two seasons including seven interceptions
Smart paths to the throw allow length to play the ball
Physical and assertive when attacking catch-point
Allows house odds when elevating to compete for 50/50s
Willing to get into the mix and handle duties as run supporter

Weaknesses
Only a full-time starter in senior season
Needs additional technique work and needs to trust it
Lacks fluid hips and feet to mirror routes from a pedal
Can be a step slow to plant and drive out of a pedal
Slow to accelerate from change of direction
Scheme dependent
Crossing routes can get away from him
Long speed and recovery burst are issues
Forced to sit on high side of routes in off-man due to speed deficiency

Sources Tell Us
"Our national scout is high on him because of his size and length. We don't care as much about speed numbers as long as you can play the big receivers and make plays on the ball, but he has to hit our minimum speed numbers at the Combine." -- Pro personnel director with NFC team

Obviously the Lions believe he fits their scheme, and all rookies get the NFL diet and weight training program, so even in round 5 the Lions may have a potential future starter on hand.

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With the 184th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft the Detroit Lions select... WR Travis Fulgham from Old Dominion. I had Travis ranked 203rd (6th round grade). Travis is 6' 2 3/8" tall and weighs in at 211 pounds with a 4.58 forty time. His RAS score is 8.01 (elite) and compared to other WRs has great size, poor speed, great explosion, and good agility. He has 9 1/2" hands and if he were just a touch faster he'd have been long gone before the 6th round.

One draft guide has this to say on Travis; "OUTLOOK: A former walk-on, Fulgham is a big bodied receiver that embraces the physical aspect of the game not only breaking tackles after the catch but as a blocker in the running game. He’s not a sudden mover and lacks a true third gear but is highly competitive and does exceedingly well in contested catch scenarios."

Some highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SnNaWyYvqI

I haven't done a side-by-side comparison, but a lot of his info reminds me of one Marvin Jones.

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With the 186th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft the Detroit Lions select... RB Ty Johnson from Maryland. I had a 7th round/undrafted rank on Ty. Ty has an RAS score of 8.63 (elite). He's 5' 10 3/4" tall and weighs in at 210 pounds with a 4.4 forty time. His hand size is a small worry, at 9 1/8" (I don't like hands under 9 3/8" and the smaller the hands the more likely the odds of fumbling). Still, he's fast.

A draft guide has this to say on Ty: OUTLOOK: An explosive runner, Johnson shows excellent vision and can hit the hole between the tackles but he also possesses the plus acceleration needed to cut it to the outside. A multi-purpose prospect who can also be a receiving threat and return weapon, Johnson is one of the best running back prospects no one is talking about leading up to the draft. He projects as a change of pace back at the next level with the ability to factor in on special teams but his dynamic speed gives him the chance to be more.

PROS: Johnson is a tough smaller, change of pace back with some upper body strength, which allows him to break arm tackles and gain additional yards after contact. He is physical and invites contact at times but he has a rare third gear which makes him an extremely tough runner to defend against. He possesses great acceleration and patience, quick burst and change of direction ability. He is also a return specialist who has averaged over 26 yards per return for his career, including a 100-yard return in 2017.

CONS: There were questions surrounding Johnson’s maturity when he was an underclassman. Former head coach DJ Durkin said that his mental approach changed entering his junior campaign, as he took a more professional attitude in practice. Had shown to have proven hands coming out of the backfield during the week of East-West Shrine Game practices but wasn’t nearly utilized enough in that aspect during his Terrapins career.

“He said, ‘What if something happens and I don’t have my degree? I have to have my degree.’ That was the final straw. No, I’m not leaving without it. He went to [coach DJ] Durkin and said, ‘I’m coming back. I’m not leaving without that paper.’ I was pushing him to leave. He ended up being the smart one in that situation and went back.” – Tracy Johnson, mother of Ty"

Some highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpc7_1q0jcw

Now I'm not awarding the starting job to Ty, but he'll be a hard player to cut I do believe, and will contribute to the RB rotation that most teams employ these days.

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With the 224th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft the Detroit Lions select... TE Isaac Nauta from Georgia. That's right, another TE. I have Isaac ranked 174th (5th/6th round grade). The problem is, his RAS score is 1.57 (poor/very poor). There is not one measurable that is desirable for him to be a TE. I have a hunch the Lions plan to move him to full back. He's 6' 3 1/4" tall and weighs 241 pounds running a 4.83 forty. His best measurable was bench, with 19. So he's strong. Still, I can't find anyone mentioning that he might be a FB playing at TE, so maybe I'm just wrong. Anyway, a draft guide has a bit more positive of an outlook then everything else suggests, it goes like this:

OUTLOOK: Arrived to Georgia as a heralded five-star recruit and while he didn’t quite live up to expectations, Nauta finished up his career strong and appears ready for the next level as an early entree. He finished his career with 42 games played, including 27 starts, registering 68 catches for 905 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. Possesses the size, frame and maturity that should make for a rather seamless transition to the NFL. A highly competitive and physical player. Also a big play threat who is difficult to tackle in the open field. Has been used out of the slot and is not afraid to go over the middle. Shows sound blocking technique and great strength. Does a nice job of riding out his blocks and staying on his man through the whistle. A vocal leader who holds teammates accountable and isn’t afraid to speak up, according to his head coach Kirby Smart. Has been a streaky performer during his Bulldogs career, with 29 catches as a freshman, then just nine as a sophomore, before bouncing back with 30 receptions as a junior. The Georgia offense did not make great use of the tight end in their passing game. Will get caught turning and running before he actually catches the ball, leading to an occasional drop. Would like to see him be a bit more aware of the first down marker, he often cuts off his route prior to the marker.

Here is the highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MEqFMFswQA

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With the 229th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft the Detroit Lions select... DT PJ Johnson from Arizona. I have PJ ranked 207th (6th/7th round grade). His RAS score is a lowly 0.87. At 6' 3 3/8" tall and 321 pounds with a 5.34 forty I think what we have here is a nose tackle. But with a bench of only 18 I would say maybe not such a super strong one. This is maybe a nose tackle project, which you would expect with a 7th round pick (a project that is).

His highlight film says he's the most underrated DT in the draft: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hFgO3_aBgk

He's not in the draft guides, so let's check the internet. nfl.com has this info: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/p.j.-johnson?id=32194a4f-4858-0971-a306-a31ea05fb62b but this one hits the nail on the head, as they compare him to "snacks" Harrison: http://draftanalyst.com/pj-johnson which should explain the Lions interest.

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Now I am going to do one more thing, I'm going to take all NINE 2019 Lions Draft Picks and re-shuffle them so that they are in order of my board, as the Lions obviously had these guys ranked differently then I did. Here we go:

7th Overall TE T.J. Hockenson drafted Round 1, 8th overall.
50th Overall CB Amani Oruwariye drafted Round 5, 146th overall.
108th Overall ILB Jahlani Tavai drafted Round 2, 43rd overall.
162nd Overall DE Austin Bryant drafted Round 4, 117th overall.
174th Overall TE Isaac Nauta drafted Round 7, 224th overall.
203rd Overall WR Travis Fulgham drafted Round 6, 184th overall.
207th Overall DT PJ Johnson drafted Round 7, 229th overall.
274th Overall DB Will Harris drafted Round 3, 81st overall.
302nd Overall RB Ty Johnson drafted Round 6, 186th overall.

As you can see, what I have for rankings is nothing at all like what the Lions have them ranked. I'm fine with that, they have a ton more information and people involved then me, and in fact I warn people every year leading up to the draft that teams look at players differently then we fans do. I know it'll happen, it always does, and yet every year I allow the reaches to bug me and the values to make me feel good (like Amani there, taken in the 5th round, with a 2nd round grade). Every year I tell myself the team needs to be able to work on these guys for a year or three and THEN see where we are. Every year I fail miserably. I would explain the same to those reading this, but if I can't convince myself what chance do I really have? So I'll change my speech to this, if you feel the Lions took a day 3 player on day 2, at least they also took a day 2 player on day 3! [insert smiling face moji here]. Oh, and as for the lousy RAS grades and almost glowing scouting profiles, that might be the film shows more then the tape measure... or is it an arbinger of things to come? Maybe we can at least agree on this... it's too soon to know for sure! Hope you got to enjoy at least part of the draft everyone, blog at you later.

NFL Draft 2019 Day 2

And the excitement continues...

With the 43rd overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft the Detroit Lions select... MLB Jahlani Tavai from Hawaii. Who, you may ask? Well, I had heard of him, even mocked him to the Lions a couple times in round 4 or 5 back in February until I did my research after the combine and realized I shouldn't have him on the draft board at all. So I stopped mocking him to the Lions completely. You see, Tavai is a player kind of like Devin White, who I thought the Lions might draft in round 1 and then play him in the middle moving Davis to the Van Noy position that the Patriots use. I never thought that they would have a backup for White in another round and that the player would be Tavai. White, who was drafted 5th overall by the Bucs, has an RAS score of 9.33 is 6 foot tall, weighs in at 237 pounds and runs a 4.42 forty. Tavai who was drafted 43rd overall by the Lions, has an RAS score of 4.14 (below average athlete) is 6' 2 3/8" tall, weighs in at 246 pounds and runs a 4.86 forty. I had Tavai ranked 108th (4th round), those I follow had him ranked 86 to 113th (3rd/4th round). Everyone had White ranked top 10 except PFF who has him at 12. So athletically Tavai is not the best backup option to White... especially not a 2nd round backup option.

So what does his film show? One draft board has this to say, which isn't all that far from what others I have read say...

OUTLOOK: For scouts to pay much attention to programs with a limited track of producing draft-worthy talent, players have to dominate. That is precisely what Tavai did over four seasons at Hawaii, leaving the program ranked second all-time in tackles despite missing the final six games of the season due to a shoulder injury which required surgery. A four-year starter with legitimate NFL size, athleticism and production, he's likely to hear his name called on Day Three, making him the first Rainbow Warrior defender to be drafted since the then-St. Louis Rams took a seventh round flyer on Aaron Brown in 2012.

PROS: Possesses a legitimate NFL frame with broad shoulders and good overall weight distribution, including a thick lower half. Quick to read run, showing good key and diagnosis skills to step up and take on hard-charging blockers in the hole. Extends his arms to keep blockers away from his frame, showing good length and strength to stay clean on his way to the ball. Balanced and agile to fight through traffic, showing at least average speed to the flanks. Good flexibility to dip under the reach of would-be blockers and is surprisingly fluid in scraping the corner. Core and hand strength show in his ability to fight off blocks and pull down ball-carriers while engaged. Athletic bloodlines. Two older brothers who also played D-I football, including J.R. Tavai, formerly from Southern Cal and the Tennessee Titans.

CONS: While possessing good speed for a linebacker of his size, Tavai shows just fair speed overall for the position, lacking ideal suddenness to close. More of a drag down 'rassler than a true striker, lacking the intimidation factor as a hitter that his size might suggest. Comes with character red flags that require investigating. Along with Hawaii teammate Kaiwi Chung, Tavai was arrested and charged with assault following an incident at a Honolulu nightclub.

Here is his highlights on youtube... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8_vOB9MQbk So he is a productive LB that should not technically be productive. That probably speaks for his football intelligence and his instincts and his ability to instantly process what is happening. Can he do that at the NFL level? That's the gamble. The Lions either drafted Devin White part II or they drafted a total draft bust. I'll just throw this out there, not what I would have done.

With the 81st overall pick in the 2019 draft the Detroit Lions select... S Will Harris from Boston College.

But the Lions didn't have the 81st pick, they traded for it. Detroit gave up its 3rd round pick, number 88 overall, as well as one of its 6th rounders, number 204 overall, in order to move up 7 spots with the division rival Minnesota Vikings.

So who is this guy they used their 3rd round AND their 6th round pick on? Well, I had Will Harris ranked 275, or a 7th round/undrafted grade. The Lions moved up 7 spots, presumably in order to draft ahead of the Patriots, who were drafting 87th over, one in front of the Lions. Would the Patriots select this guy in the 3rd round? I do not know, but the Lions must think so.

Now comes the interesting stuff. Will Harris has the absolute best RAS score of all the Strong Safeties in the draft. An elite score of 9.64. Good size, good explosion, elite speed and elite agility. At 6' 1" tall and 207 pounds he ran a 4.41 forty. Now that is impressive!

So what does his film show? Here is his highlight film.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gQAe7vN4wQw

Here is what one draft profile says:

OUTLOOK: With defensive-minded head coach Steve Addazio running the show, it should come as no surprise that Boston College has turned into a consistent producer of quality NFL defensive prospects. Harris is a bit of a throwback to a prior generation as a run-defending box safety. While his production and experience should not be ignored, Harris' lack of speed and agility in coverage could be exposed by the precision passing and explosiveness he'll face in the NFL

PROS: Looks the part of an NFL safety with an imposing frame. Plays to his size, routinely delivering physical hits to ball-carriers and showing zero hesitation when fighting through the mass of humanity near the line of scrimmage. Shows good awareness in pass coverage, anticipating routes and timing his hits well to break up passes or eliminate yard after catch opportunities. While lacking top speed, Harris diagnoses the action quickly, getting a jump on the ball to click and close. Excellent intangibles. Voted a team captain in 2018. Father, Will Harris, Sr., played wide out at Mississippi State (1989-92) and was drafted by the Buffalo Bills (seventh round).

CONS: Possesses just average straight-line speed for the position, lacking the second gear to recover when beaten in coverage or in pursuit. Exacerbating the issue, Harris needs to show improved timing when diving at ball-carriers running away from him, too often failing to trip them up before they leave him in their dust. Too often appears satisfied with allowing the reception and making the hit rather than going for the ball. Recorded one interception in 2018 and zero passes defended.

In other words, he has the tools, for the most part, and is old school, which would appeal to certain coaches, but needs exactly that, to be coached into NFL quality play. Apparently the Lions believe they can do that for him. I can't say if that will work out or not, but as the highest RAS score of all Strong Safeties, he has the tools to work with.

So even though I thought he was taken a day too soon in the draft, I can't really argue he shouldn't have been drafted. If the Lions know the Patriots were going there one pick before them, I can't blame them for giving up a 6th to a division rival to move ahead of the Patriots. But if they are wrong, this has the makings of a double negative in the ole report card.

The Lions have the best TE in the draft from day 1, the best athlete that plays strong safety in the draft, and a not so athletic middle linebacker that plays real hard (does the remind you of anyone? How about Chris Spielman?)

I hate this draft! I just might absolutely love this draft and proclaim it as one of the best of all time, maybe. Depends on these players and the coaches.

NFL Draft 2019 Day 1

Well, that's exciting.

With the 8th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft the Detroit Lions select... TE T. J. Hockenson from Iowa.

Yep, that's right, the Detroit Lions picked yet another tight end in the first round of the draft. In 2009 it was Brandon Pettigrew and in 2014 it was Eric Ebron (whilst passing on DT Donald). This year DT Ed Oliver was there for the taking (went 9th overall to the Buffalo Bills) when the Lions turned in their card for TE Hockenson. Sounds like a broken record, almost like the three wide receiver score by Matt Millen years ago. But actually, it's nothing like that at all.

You see, T. J. Hockenson can actually block and catch the football, has good hands, and is a hard working football player. In other words, he can actually play the position. He'll be 22 in July (21 when drafted). He's 6' 4 3/4" tall weighs in at 251 pounds with 9 1/2" hands. He has an RAS score of 9.21 with great agility, elite explosion, and good size and speed.

One draft publication has this to say about him

"OUTLOOK: A first down waiting to happen, you might as well call him, “Mr. Automatic.” Hockenson plays beyond the whistle. He would be an all-pro fullback, the fact that he possesses the size to play tight end and can be a receiving threat as well, makes him a blue chip prospect at his position. After an outstanding season, in which he accumulated 760 receiving yards on 49 receptions and six touchdowns, Hockenson was awarded with the 2018 John Mackey Award as top tight end in the nation. He also took home the Ozzie Newsome Award and First-Team All-American honors. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Hockenson go in the top ten.

PROS: The way he is able to be used is an offensive coordinators dream. He can play inline, he can play outside, h-back, fullback and is a mismatch for linebackers or safeties. He’s a banger; big time blocks and train wreck collisions coming at you. An exceptional blocker who does a nice job of seeking out his targets in the second level and holding his blocks on the seal. He puts emphasis on getting proper positioning. Possesses great size, above average athleticism and certified toughness.

CONS: He can be a bit wild out there in the open field and will get a bit reckless, forgetting technique. His route running could stand to use some sharpening, he tends to get sloppy feet on occasion and will round off his cuts. Overall, this is a pretty clean player, if you want to criticize his speed you can, as he doesn’t run as fast as some of the other pass-catching tight end prospects. Has just 23 games played for his career and is one of the least experienced players in this year’s class.

COMPARISON: Zach Ertz, Philadelphia Eagles – The complete package, Hockenson can do it all and could join Ertz one day as one of the NFL’s premier tight ends."

The only thing lacking in his profile is the 17 bench presses, which means he needs a study NFL diet of nutrition and workouts, which he about to start getting.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqU9EfOGVK0 Highlights

He is on the Lions contact list, and I had him ranked at 7th overall. Does that mean I would've drafted him instead of making my DL rock super solid by drafting Ed Oliver? Nope. I would've taken Oliver. But I can at least understand why the Lions took T.J. now it's up to him to prove that the 3rd time is the charm.