Detroit Lions Snap Five-Game Losing Streak

The Detroit Lions snapped their five-game losing streak, defeating the Green Bay Packers 15-9. The Lions are now 2-6 on the season. While it isn’t pretty, it’s an improvement. The Packers on the other hand, have now lost five straight.

Here are my takeaways from Sunday’s game:

Defense Shows Hope

While there is massive room for improvement, the defense had a lot of good moments in today’s game. A trend in the right direction as it’s the first game following the firing of defensive backs Coach Aubrey Pleasant. While on several occasions there were gaping holes left for Aaron Rodgers to run through, the Lions were able to get several key stops on third down, specifically in the red zone.

Kerby Joseph had an absolute game for himself. He recorded not one, but two interceptions, including one in the end zone. He also tacked on a key deflection in the third quarter to turnover the ball. Joseph would also be responsible for 10 total tackles before leaving the game to be evaluated with a concussion after a collision with Jeff Okudah. The rookie’s future is in motion. In his last three games, he’s recorded two forced fumbles and two interceptions.

Today was Aaron Rodgers first career game with 2+ red zone interceptions.

Derrick Barnes is another player that had a great game today. He recorded 12 total tackles, including a sack on Aaron Rodgers for a loss of eight yards. His last sack was also on Rodgers last season. Prior to today, Barnes was having a relatively quiet season.

Aidan Hutchinson would also prove to be a problem for the Packers today. He recorded his first career interception on fourth-and-goal at the 2-yard line.

No Hock, No Problem

The Lions offense, as a whole, wasn’t impressive today, but they got the job done and were able to overcome the second half scoring woes.

On the radar today was the tight end line-up. Brock Wright and James Mitchell were the two tight ends to watch today, however, it ended up being James Mitchell and Shane Zylstra who were the stars. The Lions’ two touchdown passes were to Mitchell and Zylstra who were both wide-open in the end zone. Coach Campbell said earlier in the week they may be better off without Hockenson, and while it may have been a coincidence, he may have been right.

Career Firsts

This game was full of career firsts for several Lions players:
Kerby Joseph – first and second career interceptions
Aidan Hutchinson – first career interception
Shane Zylstra – first career touchdown
James Mitchell – first career touchdown