This can be a deciding factor for who makes the team and who doesn't. I'm just going to get this out of the way. Stafford Megatron dominate. All first teamers looked good and ready for the season. Going to talk about the backups. As I go trhough I'm going to go through and basically do the medium. Then guys like Logan, Edwards, and Moore aren't fighting for a spot against their roster spot, but against each other.
QB
Stafford and Hill locks
Hill looked like a top backup qb.
Kellen Moore - I've had him out all preseason long. He's looking like a good potential backup qb. I'm on the fence right now. Leshoure, Edwards, and Stovall all dropped a pass that hurt him. I'm on the border right now.
2/53
RB
Mikel Leshoure and Kevin Smith are the locks here. Best is going to start on the PUP.
Right now I have only Keiland Williams in. This means I have Logan and Bell out. I don't see any value in Logan right now. I would actually keep Bell before Logan.
5/53
WR
CJ, Young, Broyles, Burleson are locks
I think Stovall is in. Edwards will be heading towards the practice squad unless someone else claims him.
10/53
OL
Backus, Reiff, Sims, Railoa, Peterman, Cherilus are locks
I would think HIlliard would be a lock too, but how many tackles can you carry. I think Fox has been too good too cut. Well I think you also have to look at the future. Hilliards a great backup and Fox is definitely looking like a great backup as well and those are hard to come by.
I also think you keep Gandy and Gerberry. We've just had to many injuries not to take them.
20/53
TE
Chef, Pettigrew Heller locks
very easy
23/53
Now most special teams players and more backups play on defense so 23/53 on offense could really be about it on the offensive side.
DE
Avril, KVB, and Young are locks
Jackson is pretty much a lock so I have him in. I have Lewis in as he'll be able to contribute on special teams. I really want to put Everette Brown in that he is probably the next guy in.
28/53
DT
Williams, Suh, Hill, Fairley are locks
Fluellen is tough for me to not have in. I think he actually stays. If the Cunningham really wants to move Suh and Fairley outside they are going to need more DTs. I know there were some incorrect reporting that the DEs would move and play inside but that is unrealistic. Most teams get out of the huddle fast and the Lions saw the Raven sugar huddle which is barely anything. Offenses will be up at the ball with plenty of time to audible that is just a fact. You're not switching the DEs and the DTs to catch someone off surprise. The tackle is going to see Suh in front of him. The reason to move Suh and Fairley around is because they have the athleticism to play DE not because Avril and KVB can play inside because they can't. I have Fluellen in.
33/53
LB
Levy, Durant, Tulloch, Hogue, Palmer, Whitehead, Lewis are locks
These are the guys that play special teams and you need them as backup as well. It seems like a lot of locks, but I would just be too shocked and I would think it would be a stupid move. Messina deserves to stay. I'm just really on the border so for now I have him out. Hopefully nobody claims him.
40/53
CB
Houston, Smith, Bentley, Lacey are locks
I just think with injuries and the pass happy league you keep 2 more CBs. Barnes should be counted in that minimum. Honestly none of the other CBs are worth keeping. I like Green because of his potential. He's looked good and then terrible. A lot like Smith. I think the Lions will pickup another CB that gets cut by someone else I believe. Right now I have Green in. I'm considering Barnes as a safety.
45/53
S
Spivey, Delmas, Coleman, Wendling, Barnes are locks
Silva has looked good and should be tough to cut. I have him out even though he has looked good on special teams, but for every play he makes he gets hurt.
50/53
Special Teams
Hanson and Muhlbach are locks
those two put us at 52/53 and we still need a punter. I honestly thought I was harsh enough that there would be extra spots at the end of this. I guess this goes to show you can't have a guy just to catch the ball and knee the ball or fair catch it. I think you could easily see Logan out and Fluellen in. I was probably a little harsh on that sentence about kneeing the ball. Special teams are underrated. Everyone says that so how can they be. They are because you don't put out your best players. Logan didn't and hasn't looked good enough for a roster spot starting from last year. Field position can decide games and field position is greatly influenced on special teams. A 10 yard farther punt makes a huge difference. If a team continuously punts 10 yards farther can win that field position and be in much better shape.
I do think the final roster spot is between Moore, Logan, and Fluellen even though we have 1 spot left and two punters. So, back to Donahue and Graham. To me it's a no brainer even though I have a strong dislike for Iowa players. It's Donahue, I like his hang time and his distance and his ability to angle punts. I prefer punters who punt the ball sideways when it lands inside the 20, but Donahue has shown consistently he can angle it out of bounce and those balls that aren't caught will roll down and get more distance. Kicking it at an angle out of bounce really helps the coverage team. Special teamers deserve some praise I don't know what happened the last two weeks compared to the first two weeks, but completely different.
53/53
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Sunday, August 19, 2012
What To Like and Not Like 2nd Preseason Game
Offense
What To Like
Starters on offense went out and played very well. No Ed Reed, but you know how hard Ray Lewis plays on every play. Stafford and Megatron looked unstoppable. Megatron being Megatron. Megatron had a big 57 yard play on a fly route. Stafford dropped it in his pocket and really put it on the mark. I believe Megatron had something like 93 yards on that one possession that turned into the Lions first 6 of the game. These two are clearly in sync. You'd see CJ on a deep crossing route, once he got passed the first LB, boom Stafford hit him. What they did a ton of was basically a curl. Sometimes it was a curl and sometimes it was almost like a zone read where CJ would come back towards the middle a little more and he is just to big to get around. Jimmy Smith just got schooled and it was a darn if you darn if you don't. You have to play off him, but if you're not on him after 5 yards it's just to easy. There is nothing wrong with 5-6 yards after another. Honestly if I was the DC going against the Lions, I would have a CB basically on man on him. You have to shift safety coverage toward him for deep help. Then quite honestly I would have to have underneath help. You'd have to play a pretty basic cover 2. We don't run really any 2 wr sets, but what you do then. Have LB split out wider than normal to take that away? I would let the Lions running game prove itself. Now in a 3-4 you'd have that LB out there which your almost forced to not rush now. They really did a lot of 6 yards 15 yard hits early and then hit the big play.
Secondary wr didn't really get too many targets because the first read was open so many times. Titus had a nice long td. Pettigrew caught a pass down the middle for a decent gain. I don't remember any drops by the first teamers. Broyles came in with the second team. As you guys know I wanted the Lions to take a WR in the draft, but no earlier than round 3. Round 2 is where we seem to miss and it definitely has made big impact on our seasons. I think the best player available is a smart way to go and I am 100% bought in. Now if we ever get to elite status I will disagree with it. I think we hit with Broyles and Young. Broyles just runs great routes. If you are telling me that he's still recovering boy he's going to be very dangerous. He just seems like Just seems like a guy that goes to work and seems very quiet. So far his persona reminds me of Marvin Harrison, but I think he could be a Welker. I can't imagine with Megatron he would get Welker like number of targets, but just imagine having Welker and Megatron on the same team and we might. So far positive signs. I truly believe that Burleson does a good job mentoring these guys and Shawn Jefferson as their coach.
What about the running game? Kevin Smith looks like a first round talent. I absolutely love he doesn't head south, east, or west, it's a cut and up. He showed some nasty shakes and juked guys, but clearly he has excellent footwork and is making those cuts that make you go really. He looked like he did as when the Lions signed him last year. I thought Williams looked liked a more then capable backup. What I know about Leshoure, I still expect him to be the starter after his suspension is up. Best you just almost have to rule him out and say it happens it happens. Leshoure and Smith are two great RBs. Smith and Williams are definitely good enough in game one. Game two vs the 49ers Smith is going to have to be good and I think he's capable, but it will definitely be tough. They are going to have to ask more out Smith vs the 49ers than the Rams I would hope.
The O line definitely showed the can pass protect and run block. Reiff played with the second group. I really don't get the knock on him unable to pass protect. He looked a superior talent with his footwork and he just amazes me with his patience. He played the right side. He just does a good job of kicking back kicking back and/or sliding if he has too. Once a tackle gets his hands a DE it's over, but when they reach they are done. Most tackles reach. I think the OL showed they had very capable backup players, that are almost starters. Hillard is a great backup and Reiff is definitely a starter caliber. The starters showed they are capable of run blocking and pass protecting against an elite Ravens D.
Not To Like
Mine as well just jump right into the OL. I thought they were inconsistent. I think Reiff is the better RT. Cherilus is more proven, but has shown a ton of inconsistency and don't forget about the stupidity last year against the Bucs. What I've constantly asked is what is our best OL consist of. I'd really like to see Reiff against an elite DE on the left side. I still believe our ideal OL has Reiff taking over the left spot and Backus moving to guard. Now part of the reason I say that is the transition is done and set for years. Backus finishes out his career at guard and Reiff at LT till he's at Backus age and we get a new Reiff. It's not a switch for everyone from year to year. He's showed he's better than the talent he has been facing. There probably is a drop off from Backus to Reiff in pass protection. I'll believe the coaches have him on the right side for the simple fact that Backus is the LT and him and Cherilus are fighting it out. Flat and simple we need better RT play and we need better run blocking than last year. I think Cherilus is too big to move to guard and don't think he can quite get low and drive off liked he'd need too. Our best OL probably has Reiff at guard, but does that hinder his future? Practicing at RT, play guard, and then eventually moving to LT. It is nice to have options, but too many question marks and inconsistency to full comfortable.
The running game did not show very well in the stat sheet. I think a lot of that had to do with the OL inconsistency, but mainly the lack of attempts. There has always been a sexy RB/WR which has been Aaron Brown and Stefan Logan. Stefan Logan has looked great and then not so much. He showed he still has the capabilities to take returns back tot he house. He showed he can play RB. Logan suffered an injury and it doesn't sound too bad. Thankfully it was an ankle injury so far all good signs considering it took a while for him to get off the field. I can't justify having a returner only on the team especially with the limited amount of kickoff returns. With teams having two kickers in camp one of the kickers will usually not have quite the kickoff leg so you will so more returns in the preseason, but that won't be the case come the regular season. I don't see Logan being a really RB option, it should have happened last year of all years if it was an option. I think Logan's time is sadly done in Detroit.
Defense
Not To Like
Mine as well continue with it. Coverage teams did not look good. The athletic ability of people like the backup LBs Hogue, Whitehead, and Lewis I would thought would really make for a great coverage team. The Lions will really struggle if the coverage teams do not improve. There really isn't too much to talk about. I didn't like the lack of dominance by the front four especially by the second team D. The middle got a good push. Not really much pressure of the edge as much money as we have in the front four and hype I expect more. Especially our second teamers that are start quality against backups. There was a ton of mistackles which is scary.
The punting situation is quite interesting. Many people believe the job is Grahams. Which I guess I strongly believe it's Donahue's and I think that only got solidified. Donahue had one go out of bounce at the two. If he angled it there and knew he'd get that straight forward bounce very impressive. Graham though a rugby kicker does a great job of punting the ball straight up and down. I know it doesn't sound logically, but it gets that sideways roll so basically where it lands is where it stops when he is kicking inside the 20. I give Graham the nod on the inside the 20, but when it comes to punting I'd like to see that stats, but I think Donahue gets much better hang time. Graham had one that was way too low and hard and made the coverage team look bad on a long return. I don't think we have the best punters, but we have two very different punters good in certain areas. More questions marks at another position for the Lions.
To Like
I finally saw the hype of the backup young LBs. The speed of Hogue and Whitehead really stood out too me. They close and tackle very well. One thing just shocked me and still does. Wendling looked like a starter and FYI he did and played against the first stringers. Secondary didn't struggle.
What To Like
Starters on offense went out and played very well. No Ed Reed, but you know how hard Ray Lewis plays on every play. Stafford and Megatron looked unstoppable. Megatron being Megatron. Megatron had a big 57 yard play on a fly route. Stafford dropped it in his pocket and really put it on the mark. I believe Megatron had something like 93 yards on that one possession that turned into the Lions first 6 of the game. These two are clearly in sync. You'd see CJ on a deep crossing route, once he got passed the first LB, boom Stafford hit him. What they did a ton of was basically a curl. Sometimes it was a curl and sometimes it was almost like a zone read where CJ would come back towards the middle a little more and he is just to big to get around. Jimmy Smith just got schooled and it was a darn if you darn if you don't. You have to play off him, but if you're not on him after 5 yards it's just to easy. There is nothing wrong with 5-6 yards after another. Honestly if I was the DC going against the Lions, I would have a CB basically on man on him. You have to shift safety coverage toward him for deep help. Then quite honestly I would have to have underneath help. You'd have to play a pretty basic cover 2. We don't run really any 2 wr sets, but what you do then. Have LB split out wider than normal to take that away? I would let the Lions running game prove itself. Now in a 3-4 you'd have that LB out there which your almost forced to not rush now. They really did a lot of 6 yards 15 yard hits early and then hit the big play.
Secondary wr didn't really get too many targets because the first read was open so many times. Titus had a nice long td. Pettigrew caught a pass down the middle for a decent gain. I don't remember any drops by the first teamers. Broyles came in with the second team. As you guys know I wanted the Lions to take a WR in the draft, but no earlier than round 3. Round 2 is where we seem to miss and it definitely has made big impact on our seasons. I think the best player available is a smart way to go and I am 100% bought in. Now if we ever get to elite status I will disagree with it. I think we hit with Broyles and Young. Broyles just runs great routes. If you are telling me that he's still recovering boy he's going to be very dangerous. He just seems like Just seems like a guy that goes to work and seems very quiet. So far his persona reminds me of Marvin Harrison, but I think he could be a Welker. I can't imagine with Megatron he would get Welker like number of targets, but just imagine having Welker and Megatron on the same team and we might. So far positive signs. I truly believe that Burleson does a good job mentoring these guys and Shawn Jefferson as their coach.
What about the running game? Kevin Smith looks like a first round talent. I absolutely love he doesn't head south, east, or west, it's a cut and up. He showed some nasty shakes and juked guys, but clearly he has excellent footwork and is making those cuts that make you go really. He looked like he did as when the Lions signed him last year. I thought Williams looked liked a more then capable backup. What I know about Leshoure, I still expect him to be the starter after his suspension is up. Best you just almost have to rule him out and say it happens it happens. Leshoure and Smith are two great RBs. Smith and Williams are definitely good enough in game one. Game two vs the 49ers Smith is going to have to be good and I think he's capable, but it will definitely be tough. They are going to have to ask more out Smith vs the 49ers than the Rams I would hope.
The O line definitely showed the can pass protect and run block. Reiff played with the second group. I really don't get the knock on him unable to pass protect. He looked a superior talent with his footwork and he just amazes me with his patience. He played the right side. He just does a good job of kicking back kicking back and/or sliding if he has too. Once a tackle gets his hands a DE it's over, but when they reach they are done. Most tackles reach. I think the OL showed they had very capable backup players, that are almost starters. Hillard is a great backup and Reiff is definitely a starter caliber. The starters showed they are capable of run blocking and pass protecting against an elite Ravens D.
Not To Like
Mine as well just jump right into the OL. I thought they were inconsistent. I think Reiff is the better RT. Cherilus is more proven, but has shown a ton of inconsistency and don't forget about the stupidity last year against the Bucs. What I've constantly asked is what is our best OL consist of. I'd really like to see Reiff against an elite DE on the left side. I still believe our ideal OL has Reiff taking over the left spot and Backus moving to guard. Now part of the reason I say that is the transition is done and set for years. Backus finishes out his career at guard and Reiff at LT till he's at Backus age and we get a new Reiff. It's not a switch for everyone from year to year. He's showed he's better than the talent he has been facing. There probably is a drop off from Backus to Reiff in pass protection. I'll believe the coaches have him on the right side for the simple fact that Backus is the LT and him and Cherilus are fighting it out. Flat and simple we need better RT play and we need better run blocking than last year. I think Cherilus is too big to move to guard and don't think he can quite get low and drive off liked he'd need too. Our best OL probably has Reiff at guard, but does that hinder his future? Practicing at RT, play guard, and then eventually moving to LT. It is nice to have options, but too many question marks and inconsistency to full comfortable.
The running game did not show very well in the stat sheet. I think a lot of that had to do with the OL inconsistency, but mainly the lack of attempts. There has always been a sexy RB/WR which has been Aaron Brown and Stefan Logan. Stefan Logan has looked great and then not so much. He showed he still has the capabilities to take returns back tot he house. He showed he can play RB. Logan suffered an injury and it doesn't sound too bad. Thankfully it was an ankle injury so far all good signs considering it took a while for him to get off the field. I can't justify having a returner only on the team especially with the limited amount of kickoff returns. With teams having two kickers in camp one of the kickers will usually not have quite the kickoff leg so you will so more returns in the preseason, but that won't be the case come the regular season. I don't see Logan being a really RB option, it should have happened last year of all years if it was an option. I think Logan's time is sadly done in Detroit.
Defense
Not To Like
Mine as well continue with it. Coverage teams did not look good. The athletic ability of people like the backup LBs Hogue, Whitehead, and Lewis I would thought would really make for a great coverage team. The Lions will really struggle if the coverage teams do not improve. There really isn't too much to talk about. I didn't like the lack of dominance by the front four especially by the second team D. The middle got a good push. Not really much pressure of the edge as much money as we have in the front four and hype I expect more. Especially our second teamers that are start quality against backups. There was a ton of mistackles which is scary.
The punting situation is quite interesting. Many people believe the job is Grahams. Which I guess I strongly believe it's Donahue's and I think that only got solidified. Donahue had one go out of bounce at the two. If he angled it there and knew he'd get that straight forward bounce very impressive. Graham though a rugby kicker does a great job of punting the ball straight up and down. I know it doesn't sound logically, but it gets that sideways roll so basically where it lands is where it stops when he is kicking inside the 20. I give Graham the nod on the inside the 20, but when it comes to punting I'd like to see that stats, but I think Donahue gets much better hang time. Graham had one that was way too low and hard and made the coverage team look bad on a long return. I don't think we have the best punters, but we have two very different punters good in certain areas. More questions marks at another position for the Lions.
To Like
I finally saw the hype of the backup young LBs. The speed of Hogue and Whitehead really stood out too me. They close and tackle very well. One thing just shocked me and still does. Wendling looked like a starter and FYI he did and played against the first stringers. Secondary didn't struggle.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Round 2 Preseason vs the Ravens
Starters
Going to do this one a little more live play by play almost with the starters only going to play a little bit.
Defense looked decent. A lot of good tackles. Loved the way the linebackers filled gaps. They lacked a little bit of shedding blockers along with the front four. Lacey got beat way to easy on a quick slant. Wendling laid some surprising wood. Coleman made a nice open field tackle. He also got beat on the slant, but he can't get beat deep. There was a lack of linebacker drop by I believe Levy.
Running game and passing game looked average. Good for the running game bad for the passing game. Their front 3 are looking really good. Good run blocking on some plays and great patience by Smith. You don't like to end the first drive with a punt, but excellent coverage and tackle by the coverage team
Screen for the Ravens looks to easy. Front four is getting a great push. Just stupid penalties. 2 DEFENSIVE off sides already. One blatantly stupid late hit by Fairley. Looking like a similar team to last year with these penalties. I think the off season trouble clearly showing this team has an immature attitude and it's showing. Houston needs to look back. Scary to think he's are clear starting CB. Houston probably got away with one. A shocking great play from Wendling. Good drive on the ball. Red zone stop. Lions down 0-3
Another undisciplined penalty, Pettigrew was covered up making hi ineligible to go down field. Megatron slinger Stafford looking unstoppable. Running game still looking pretty good. Good patience by Williams, and great wash down by the OL. Ravens backside LB did a good job of staying back. Now going to lie was holding my breath while Stafford danced around to slide and get two yards. Stafford just flat and simply makes a stupid position. 4 yard dig route. Obviously a quick route, he's looking right, looking right, and then goes left and slings it over over towards the sideline. It may not be very far down field, but latterly it was. Should have been pick possibly 6, but Ravens drop it.
Several missed tackles. A third defensive offisde. Avril shows lack of discipline in giving up outside contain on a reverse. After that reverse they are just giving up. Levy misses Rice dead to rights in the backfield. Lions get RB for more than a 15 yard loss, but get caught with an incidental face mask. It happens, nothing intentional about the penalty. A good run for the Ravens look like the Lions D is just going to give up. Avril gives up outside contain again, but Coleman really makes an outstanding play. Wendling with a sack! I am going to have to eat my words. Hold them to a 50 yard FG attempt. Lions down 0-6.
A holding call, but Logan makes a great return. Stafford drops a 50 yard throw in the well. He didn't have to make that good of a throw, but he did. 57 yard gain Megatron. Megatron comes accross and just squares up. How do you defend that when he can beat you deep and you can't get around his big body. He just shields you off so well. Logan drops a key pass. As most of you know, I think Logan will get cut. The coaches aren't going to look past what Logan did on the return. Yes, it was negated, but he still did something special. Can't look past him short arming a big pass, even though the defensive off side negated it. Megatron touchdown. CJ already has 111 yards. Lions 7-6
Go ahead and say it. I was all for the Lions selecting a kicker and having a kickoff specialist. What a way of wasted roster spot. Jason Hanson 9 yards in the back of the end zone, touch back. Lions defensive starter dominate Ravens backup. Logan only gains a few yards, but looks dangerous doing it and wisely going north.
Offensive starters in for the Lions. Billick mentions that the Lions are probably wanting to see if they can actually run against a defensive like the Ravens. Logan gets hurt on a hand off to him that never happened. Hopefully he is alright. Walked off, but he was down for a while. Screen to Smith and he makes a juke and gets a big gain. Billick, "Jimmy Smith is getting schooled by Calving Johnson." Pettigrew gets involved in the game. OL looks great in pass protection. They do a good job run blocking, but it's not going to show as Williams gets tripped up a little bit. Young makes a catch for a big gain, breaks a tackle and scores. Lions 14-6.
Second team
Tigers 3-3 with the Orioles in the bottom of the 7th, make that top 8. I wish Billick was right. I wish we could have said hey Ravens we are running it can we do it. I know it's not a can you stop it. Who cares win lose. It was definitely nice seeing Young and Pettigrew getting on the stat sheet. It was really exciting seeing Smith on the screen. We talk about how the lions backup DL could be starters elsewhere aren't showing that. They do get a sack. Tahir Whitehead like glue on the out and up route by the RB out of the back field.
As Broyles enters the game, my main concentration is on him. He makes a good catch across the middle. So far I really like his routes. Ravens playing off and Broyles makes a good gain and makes on man miss. Jason makes a 50 yarder. Had quite a bit of leg on it, just sneaks it in. I'd say at least 5 yards farther it would have still had the distance. Maybe I just love the lifer Lion too much. Billick mentions that this isn't indoors and it's a wet muggy night. Lions up 17-9.
A huge kickoff return brought back by a holding penalty by the Ravens. He did just barely step out. Scary you don't like to see that it took one holding to basically return it. Home run Prince Fielder Tigers up 5-3. On the defensive side I'm going to concentrate on the LBs after being harsh on them. Palmer got called for a NFL (no fun league) penalty. Head to head hit, he laid some wood. My opinion he turns and hits with his shoulder.
We do have quite the punting competition going on. Donahue made a great punt to do what iI call an unassisted down at the 2 yard line. Graham has now made a great punt .
I don't mean to disrespect Billick, because I do respect him a lot. Reiff has been very impressive throughout camp and preseason. He mentioned when was the last time a lineman from Firentz wasn't good.... Robert Gallery. Reiff is the real deal though, . Reiff has looked fantastic so far tonight. Reiff is on the right side showing great pass blocking ability. Like I mentioned last week his patience is amazing. I don't know why people are saying he needs experience in that area. He looks like a vet. I get the arm length thing I get, but skill is there. He has a good kick out and outstanding patience. Something that is just so difficult to teach.
Graham has a punt returned for a td brought back by a holding call. It will still give the Ravens awesome field position afterwards. I truly believe that the kick was too low of a line drive punt. I really really like the speed of Tahir. and Lewis at the LB position.
Kellen Moore coming in the game. I'm surprised he almost dind't get the whole second half. He's kind of a huge factor. Do you keep a third qb or do you carry another rb or wr? Well Moore is going to be the deciding factor with that one. As much as I want Moore to succeed I'm not seeing it as I've mentioned earlier. He has made two great throws so far. Third throw shows the difference between Stafford and Moore. The arm strength, Moore needs to anticipate earlier. He was late on one that Stafford could have hit. He shows great anticipation though. Clearly wanting to see Moore as they sling it accross the field. Moore shows a methodical intermediate route hitting drive that stalls around the 50. Graham gets a fair catch at the 9.
I forgot to mention Doug Hogue, boy this guy can fly around the field. Alophonso Smith makes a great open field tackle and then proceeds to get tweaked up. There is a lack of tackling with the unit on the field. Special teams are where these players need to make a factor so there clearly needs to be an improvement. Return hasn't done much and coverage has looked horrible.
Going to do this one a little more live play by play almost with the starters only going to play a little bit.
Defense looked decent. A lot of good tackles. Loved the way the linebackers filled gaps. They lacked a little bit of shedding blockers along with the front four. Lacey got beat way to easy on a quick slant. Wendling laid some surprising wood. Coleman made a nice open field tackle. He also got beat on the slant, but he can't get beat deep. There was a lack of linebacker drop by I believe Levy.
Running game and passing game looked average. Good for the running game bad for the passing game. Their front 3 are looking really good. Good run blocking on some plays and great patience by Smith. You don't like to end the first drive with a punt, but excellent coverage and tackle by the coverage team
Screen for the Ravens looks to easy. Front four is getting a great push. Just stupid penalties. 2 DEFENSIVE off sides already. One blatantly stupid late hit by Fairley. Looking like a similar team to last year with these penalties. I think the off season trouble clearly showing this team has an immature attitude and it's showing. Houston needs to look back. Scary to think he's are clear starting CB. Houston probably got away with one. A shocking great play from Wendling. Good drive on the ball. Red zone stop. Lions down 0-3
Another undisciplined penalty, Pettigrew was covered up making hi ineligible to go down field. Megatron slinger Stafford looking unstoppable. Running game still looking pretty good. Good patience by Williams, and great wash down by the OL. Ravens backside LB did a good job of staying back. Now going to lie was holding my breath while Stafford danced around to slide and get two yards. Stafford just flat and simply makes a stupid position. 4 yard dig route. Obviously a quick route, he's looking right, looking right, and then goes left and slings it over over towards the sideline. It may not be very far down field, but latterly it was. Should have been pick possibly 6, but Ravens drop it.
Several missed tackles. A third defensive offisde. Avril shows lack of discipline in giving up outside contain on a reverse. After that reverse they are just giving up. Levy misses Rice dead to rights in the backfield. Lions get RB for more than a 15 yard loss, but get caught with an incidental face mask. It happens, nothing intentional about the penalty. A good run for the Ravens look like the Lions D is just going to give up. Avril gives up outside contain again, but Coleman really makes an outstanding play. Wendling with a sack! I am going to have to eat my words. Hold them to a 50 yard FG attempt. Lions down 0-6.
A holding call, but Logan makes a great return. Stafford drops a 50 yard throw in the well. He didn't have to make that good of a throw, but he did. 57 yard gain Megatron. Megatron comes accross and just squares up. How do you defend that when he can beat you deep and you can't get around his big body. He just shields you off so well. Logan drops a key pass. As most of you know, I think Logan will get cut. The coaches aren't going to look past what Logan did on the return. Yes, it was negated, but he still did something special. Can't look past him short arming a big pass, even though the defensive off side negated it. Megatron touchdown. CJ already has 111 yards. Lions 7-6
Go ahead and say it. I was all for the Lions selecting a kicker and having a kickoff specialist. What a way of wasted roster spot. Jason Hanson 9 yards in the back of the end zone, touch back. Lions defensive starter dominate Ravens backup. Logan only gains a few yards, but looks dangerous doing it and wisely going north.
Offensive starters in for the Lions. Billick mentions that the Lions are probably wanting to see if they can actually run against a defensive like the Ravens. Logan gets hurt on a hand off to him that never happened. Hopefully he is alright. Walked off, but he was down for a while. Screen to Smith and he makes a juke and gets a big gain. Billick, "Jimmy Smith is getting schooled by Calving Johnson." Pettigrew gets involved in the game. OL looks great in pass protection. They do a good job run blocking, but it's not going to show as Williams gets tripped up a little bit. Young makes a catch for a big gain, breaks a tackle and scores. Lions 14-6.
Second team
Tigers 3-3 with the Orioles in the bottom of the 7th, make that top 8. I wish Billick was right. I wish we could have said hey Ravens we are running it can we do it. I know it's not a can you stop it. Who cares win lose. It was definitely nice seeing Young and Pettigrew getting on the stat sheet. It was really exciting seeing Smith on the screen. We talk about how the lions backup DL could be starters elsewhere aren't showing that. They do get a sack. Tahir Whitehead like glue on the out and up route by the RB out of the back field.
As Broyles enters the game, my main concentration is on him. He makes a good catch across the middle. So far I really like his routes. Ravens playing off and Broyles makes a good gain and makes on man miss. Jason makes a 50 yarder. Had quite a bit of leg on it, just sneaks it in. I'd say at least 5 yards farther it would have still had the distance. Maybe I just love the lifer Lion too much. Billick mentions that this isn't indoors and it's a wet muggy night. Lions up 17-9.
A huge kickoff return brought back by a holding penalty by the Ravens. He did just barely step out. Scary you don't like to see that it took one holding to basically return it. Home run Prince Fielder Tigers up 5-3. On the defensive side I'm going to concentrate on the LBs after being harsh on them. Palmer got called for a NFL (no fun league) penalty. Head to head hit, he laid some wood. My opinion he turns and hits with his shoulder.
We do have quite the punting competition going on. Donahue made a great punt to do what iI call an unassisted down at the 2 yard line. Graham has now made a great punt .
I don't mean to disrespect Billick, because I do respect him a lot. Reiff has been very impressive throughout camp and preseason. He mentioned when was the last time a lineman from Firentz wasn't good.... Robert Gallery. Reiff is the real deal though, . Reiff has looked fantastic so far tonight. Reiff is on the right side showing great pass blocking ability. Like I mentioned last week his patience is amazing. I don't know why people are saying he needs experience in that area. He looks like a vet. I get the arm length thing I get, but skill is there. He has a good kick out and outstanding patience. Something that is just so difficult to teach.
Graham has a punt returned for a td brought back by a holding call. It will still give the Ravens awesome field position afterwards. I truly believe that the kick was too low of a line drive punt. I really really like the speed of Tahir. and Lewis at the LB position.
Kellen Moore coming in the game. I'm surprised he almost dind't get the whole second half. He's kind of a huge factor. Do you keep a third qb or do you carry another rb or wr? Well Moore is going to be the deciding factor with that one. As much as I want Moore to succeed I'm not seeing it as I've mentioned earlier. He has made two great throws so far. Third throw shows the difference between Stafford and Moore. The arm strength, Moore needs to anticipate earlier. He was late on one that Stafford could have hit. He shows great anticipation though. Clearly wanting to see Moore as they sling it accross the field. Moore shows a methodical intermediate route hitting drive that stalls around the 50. Graham gets a fair catch at the 9.
I forgot to mention Doug Hogue, boy this guy can fly around the field. Alophonso Smith makes a great open field tackle and then proceeds to get tweaked up. There is a lack of tackling with the unit on the field. Special teams are where these players need to make a factor so there clearly needs to be an improvement. Return hasn't done much and coverage has looked horrible.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Preseason Opener vs the Browns
There were a lot of positive things to take away from Fridays first preseason game vs the Browns. Lets get one thing straight it was the browns and Weeden isn't an elite qb.
QB
Matthew Stafford looked good. Him and Megatron are clearly in sync. The pick isn't too big of a deal. Shaun HIll looked like a great backup qb. I don't think he's a top 32 qb in this league, but I do feel like he's the next best. I loved picking up Kellen Moore. It's not often I want a guy to get drafted that didn't go to MSU. He just seems like a class act. My opinion is that he doesn't deserve a roster spot. He's really going to have to make some vast improvements. We've all heard it about it, it's just a lack of physical tools. If he comes in during the regular season we are in trouble.
RB
Oh my was I impressed with the running game. I really should combine the OL and the RB here. It was a lot of north running. A one cut and up field if you will by our running backs looked impressive. Good pass protection and caught the ball out of the backfield. Keiland Williams was the work horse of the day. Kevin Smith looked like the first round pick he was. We all know it's not an issue of talent at the position. It's flat and simply health issues. Leshoure was my top RB in his draft ahead of Ingram. What does that mean? Absolutely nothing other then I think he's talented and think there is something to be excited about. He like Fairley needs to get his act together. Let Berry's mistake be your lesson. I was glad to see the Lions realize a guy that doesn't touch the field do any good. It was also a financial move. Cutting Berry didn't really hurt against the cap. Back to the RBs I think we have a talented group. I'm completely off the sign another RB bandwagon. I think the lack of the success has mainly dealt with two main things, injuries and the OL. I hate to say it's the OL, but I will be the first to give them credit as well.
OL
Seems like a good transition. I'm overly excited about the OL, but one guy in particular. Riley Reiff improved the running game vastly. He is a smart football player. The one thing it is hard to explain the OT is let the DE run around. All you have to do is stay in between him and the qb. Let him waste his energy while you use barely anything. There was an inside move were lineman want to latch on and the DE tries to swipe the hands and so many tackles lose their balance and have no power in their arms anymore and can't move their feet because they aren't under them anymore. Reiff just let the DE come to him and just kept sliding his feet. I was highly impressed. I didn't think Reiff was top 15 talent. I think because a lack of tackles and him being the second best he would go earlier then he did. He proved me wrong. He absolutely should be on the field when the regular season starts. Here is my question, do you put the best OL on the field and if that means Reiff playing guard will he regress? Okay kind of a two part question. I'm not sure who is the best. I do think Reiff is better then Cherilus, but maybe we are better off having Cherilus in there and Peterman out. I really want Reiff to be better than Backus and have Backus move to guard. I don't think that is the case. Reiff is a better run blocker and Backus a better pass protector. I don't even question this thought. What about Cherilus moving to guard? I think he is too big. Does Reiff playing guard or RT hurt is potential at playing LT in the future? My opinion I don't think so. I think. I do think it would be tough to transition during the season.
TE
Extremely impressed with this group. Heller, Pettigrew, and Scheffler are all good pass catching TEs. I know Heller doesn't get credit in that category. He sure gets targeted in the red zone for that reason and he has no problem catching the ball. Heller is still a great blocking TE. What impressed me about this group is Scheffler made some tough blocks in the open field. Petttigrew is becoming a more rare breed that excels in both categories.
WR
There are a lot of potential WRs to talk about. I just don't see any surprises here that are going to transition into the regular season. Patrick Edwards looked good. I think we know who we have. Megatron looks like himself. Everybody is asking who the 2 guy is. I don't quite get that question from a scheme standpoint. Young is the vertical threat opposite of CJ and Burleson is the slot receiver. Broyles hopefully the current Wes Welker. I'd prefer not too wonder what if a certain curse gets another one. Honestly Burleson is smarter than Young and more disciplined I think it would be him. We could talk about the other guys. Once the regular season starts It's going ot be CJ, Burleson, Young, and Broyles. Also, have the three great TEs. I really don't see a fifth WR being much of a factor in the regular season. IF you want my opinion on who will be cut, make the roster, and who will make the practice squad let me know and I'll make another article.
Secondary
I wish I could split them up for the simple fact that I wish CBs or S would have done decent. Secondary looked bad. They are going to get picked apart if they don't improve. Positive news. Houston looked like a true #1 that he really never has. Also, the talent is there, it just comes down to reps. Last good news is they tackled well. I should be stoked on that fact alone. Not all was their fault. The LBs in pass coverage weren't exactly the best. Bentley had a great pick. Great potential is there. Talent is clearly there. Just need to learn. Other than tackling well for the safeties. Delmas is hopefully a huge improvement to that group. If you didn't know, the Lions secondary was actually really good last year till the injury bug hit. Early indications if Bentley can cover better. They will be a good group. Double moves worry me with him. His instincts showed on that pick.Still plenty of time to improve for this group.I think this can be a strength area. The safety position worries me the most. Even with Delmas in there, who is opposite of him?
LBs
I was so excited to see the likes of Travis Lewis and Tahir Whitehead. Get the worry some part out of the way. The screen worries me. It was read a tad too late with our second group. I don't think it was run with our starters in there. One second is the difference between being able to make an easy tackle possible pass break up and possible pick, to giving an angle to the OL and having to get off a block. Maybe I had way too high expectations on Tahir and Travis, but all I've been hearing is how good they were. Passing game is where they have a ton to learn and they won't be there anytime soon. When it comes to being a starter in the league. They will luckily get the Hogue treatment. film and practice are the best thing for them. On field learning would help, but seeing form the sideline if you know what you're looking for is learning you can't get on the field. It's easy to think film can do the same thing, but seeing it with the speed and thinking yourself through and then seeing what the starter did and how productive he did will do great help for them. Against second and third team Browns they did something our LBs haven't been able to do since well I can't even think of the last time. They were able to blitz and effectively get to the qb. Give the DTs some credit.
DE
Impressed me with a group that has high expectations and without Avril. I'm not saying they don't need Avril. They were better than what I was expecting with Avril which is really saying something. Ronnell Lewis surprised me. There was a play he looked lost and that might be part of it. He has a big learning curve. After looking like he didn't know where he was, he then proceeded to look dominant and I mean unstoppable. Flat and simply exciting raw guy that isn't going to be playing on Sundays till he is consistent. I honestly have no idea if he can get there before the start of the season. I think that would be unbelievable if he could. If he can get a few plays a game, I think he will there by week 8. Next season I absolutely think he will be something to wreaking with. I'm excited about our DEs. I think you're going to see KVBs playing time go down. Should have a fresh Avril late in the game. Which yes he won't be out there every play, but he should be fresher then the OT and should lead to a big payday for him. All DEs really impressed me. Willie Young looked great. Great group here. This probably will be KVBs last season as a Lion, more cap room for Avril and others. As a fan I want him to do amazing as he has resurrected this team and completely changed the work ethic by himself. He deserves so much credit for this team.I compare him to Pudge for the Tigers. He came in when nobody else would and improved the team. I would say that Backus and Railoa would be Bobby Higginson. Under appreciated guy who stuck it out with the team. Thanks Higgy, KVB, Pudge, Backus, and Railoa. you have given us all two teams too be very excited about. Ilitch thanks for the Prince.
DTs
In my opinion they didn't meet the hype last year. They looked above and beyond the hype they received last year. I didn't think that was possible. Down the depth chart everyone looked good. Fairley showed with his speed he could play DE. I'm excited about this group after disappointing me last year. I still worry about over pursuing. Those wham and trap plays killed us last year. This group doesn't necessarily need any stats if other positions do their job. They put pressure up front and don't let the qb step up they are doing their job in the pass game. They can do that on every play. They need to be space eaters and take on double teams. This allows the LBs run free and do their job and it's on them to make the tackle. They can do this. When they get a free pass though they need to be able to squeeze down and take on the pulling guard. They dominated vs the Browns. With one flaw. Nobody read any of the screens. Which makes me worried about over pursuing. Our DTs have played the position long enough to feel out when they are being let through, I don't care what level they played at.
Special Teams
Not happy with this group. Stovall pulled a KVB and fell down and still made a tackle on a punt. Bad news is that it took that long to make a tackle after a long return. We all get excited about a thirty yard play, but giving it up on a punt or kick return is the same thing. Jason seemed to be kicking the ball very high make it difficult to return the ball. Moving the ball up really makes a difference. I've been one that thought we should consider having a kickoff specialist and possibly Jason's successor. I no longer think that this year. Maybe the kickoff team is just that fast. They extremely lacked lane responsibility. No long returns which is something to consider. I'm a little worried, but they can definitely make a tackle before the 20. I think when the season starts you'll see a lot of touchbacks. Returners need to make the team some how and they are going to return everything they can in the preseason. I think Donahue looked good and is going to be the punter. Punt coverage has got to do a better job. Return side nothing to really talk about.
The Detroit Roar over and out hopefully a starting to a Roaring Lions season
QB
Matthew Stafford looked good. Him and Megatron are clearly in sync. The pick isn't too big of a deal. Shaun HIll looked like a great backup qb. I don't think he's a top 32 qb in this league, but I do feel like he's the next best. I loved picking up Kellen Moore. It's not often I want a guy to get drafted that didn't go to MSU. He just seems like a class act. My opinion is that he doesn't deserve a roster spot. He's really going to have to make some vast improvements. We've all heard it about it, it's just a lack of physical tools. If he comes in during the regular season we are in trouble.
RB
Oh my was I impressed with the running game. I really should combine the OL and the RB here. It was a lot of north running. A one cut and up field if you will by our running backs looked impressive. Good pass protection and caught the ball out of the backfield. Keiland Williams was the work horse of the day. Kevin Smith looked like the first round pick he was. We all know it's not an issue of talent at the position. It's flat and simply health issues. Leshoure was my top RB in his draft ahead of Ingram. What does that mean? Absolutely nothing other then I think he's talented and think there is something to be excited about. He like Fairley needs to get his act together. Let Berry's mistake be your lesson. I was glad to see the Lions realize a guy that doesn't touch the field do any good. It was also a financial move. Cutting Berry didn't really hurt against the cap. Back to the RBs I think we have a talented group. I'm completely off the sign another RB bandwagon. I think the lack of the success has mainly dealt with two main things, injuries and the OL. I hate to say it's the OL, but I will be the first to give them credit as well.
OL
Seems like a good transition. I'm overly excited about the OL, but one guy in particular. Riley Reiff improved the running game vastly. He is a smart football player. The one thing it is hard to explain the OT is let the DE run around. All you have to do is stay in between him and the qb. Let him waste his energy while you use barely anything. There was an inside move were lineman want to latch on and the DE tries to swipe the hands and so many tackles lose their balance and have no power in their arms anymore and can't move their feet because they aren't under them anymore. Reiff just let the DE come to him and just kept sliding his feet. I was highly impressed. I didn't think Reiff was top 15 talent. I think because a lack of tackles and him being the second best he would go earlier then he did. He proved me wrong. He absolutely should be on the field when the regular season starts. Here is my question, do you put the best OL on the field and if that means Reiff playing guard will he regress? Okay kind of a two part question. I'm not sure who is the best. I do think Reiff is better then Cherilus, but maybe we are better off having Cherilus in there and Peterman out. I really want Reiff to be better than Backus and have Backus move to guard. I don't think that is the case. Reiff is a better run blocker and Backus a better pass protector. I don't even question this thought. What about Cherilus moving to guard? I think he is too big. Does Reiff playing guard or RT hurt is potential at playing LT in the future? My opinion I don't think so. I think. I do think it would be tough to transition during the season.
TE
Extremely impressed with this group. Heller, Pettigrew, and Scheffler are all good pass catching TEs. I know Heller doesn't get credit in that category. He sure gets targeted in the red zone for that reason and he has no problem catching the ball. Heller is still a great blocking TE. What impressed me about this group is Scheffler made some tough blocks in the open field. Petttigrew is becoming a more rare breed that excels in both categories.
WR
There are a lot of potential WRs to talk about. I just don't see any surprises here that are going to transition into the regular season. Patrick Edwards looked good. I think we know who we have. Megatron looks like himself. Everybody is asking who the 2 guy is. I don't quite get that question from a scheme standpoint. Young is the vertical threat opposite of CJ and Burleson is the slot receiver. Broyles hopefully the current Wes Welker. I'd prefer not too wonder what if a certain curse gets another one. Honestly Burleson is smarter than Young and more disciplined I think it would be him. We could talk about the other guys. Once the regular season starts It's going ot be CJ, Burleson, Young, and Broyles. Also, have the three great TEs. I really don't see a fifth WR being much of a factor in the regular season. IF you want my opinion on who will be cut, make the roster, and who will make the practice squad let me know and I'll make another article.
Secondary
I wish I could split them up for the simple fact that I wish CBs or S would have done decent. Secondary looked bad. They are going to get picked apart if they don't improve. Positive news. Houston looked like a true #1 that he really never has. Also, the talent is there, it just comes down to reps. Last good news is they tackled well. I should be stoked on that fact alone. Not all was their fault. The LBs in pass coverage weren't exactly the best. Bentley had a great pick. Great potential is there. Talent is clearly there. Just need to learn. Other than tackling well for the safeties. Delmas is hopefully a huge improvement to that group. If you didn't know, the Lions secondary was actually really good last year till the injury bug hit. Early indications if Bentley can cover better. They will be a good group. Double moves worry me with him. His instincts showed on that pick.Still plenty of time to improve for this group.I think this can be a strength area. The safety position worries me the most. Even with Delmas in there, who is opposite of him?
LBs
I was so excited to see the likes of Travis Lewis and Tahir Whitehead. Get the worry some part out of the way. The screen worries me. It was read a tad too late with our second group. I don't think it was run with our starters in there. One second is the difference between being able to make an easy tackle possible pass break up and possible pick, to giving an angle to the OL and having to get off a block. Maybe I had way too high expectations on Tahir and Travis, but all I've been hearing is how good they were. Passing game is where they have a ton to learn and they won't be there anytime soon. When it comes to being a starter in the league. They will luckily get the Hogue treatment. film and practice are the best thing for them. On field learning would help, but seeing form the sideline if you know what you're looking for is learning you can't get on the field. It's easy to think film can do the same thing, but seeing it with the speed and thinking yourself through and then seeing what the starter did and how productive he did will do great help for them. Against second and third team Browns they did something our LBs haven't been able to do since well I can't even think of the last time. They were able to blitz and effectively get to the qb. Give the DTs some credit.
DE
Impressed me with a group that has high expectations and without Avril. I'm not saying they don't need Avril. They were better than what I was expecting with Avril which is really saying something. Ronnell Lewis surprised me. There was a play he looked lost and that might be part of it. He has a big learning curve. After looking like he didn't know where he was, he then proceeded to look dominant and I mean unstoppable. Flat and simply exciting raw guy that isn't going to be playing on Sundays till he is consistent. I honestly have no idea if he can get there before the start of the season. I think that would be unbelievable if he could. If he can get a few plays a game, I think he will there by week 8. Next season I absolutely think he will be something to wreaking with. I'm excited about our DEs. I think you're going to see KVBs playing time go down. Should have a fresh Avril late in the game. Which yes he won't be out there every play, but he should be fresher then the OT and should lead to a big payday for him. All DEs really impressed me. Willie Young looked great. Great group here. This probably will be KVBs last season as a Lion, more cap room for Avril and others. As a fan I want him to do amazing as he has resurrected this team and completely changed the work ethic by himself. He deserves so much credit for this team.I compare him to Pudge for the Tigers. He came in when nobody else would and improved the team. I would say that Backus and Railoa would be Bobby Higginson. Under appreciated guy who stuck it out with the team. Thanks Higgy, KVB, Pudge, Backus, and Railoa. you have given us all two teams too be very excited about. Ilitch thanks for the Prince.
DTs
In my opinion they didn't meet the hype last year. They looked above and beyond the hype they received last year. I didn't think that was possible. Down the depth chart everyone looked good. Fairley showed with his speed he could play DE. I'm excited about this group after disappointing me last year. I still worry about over pursuing. Those wham and trap plays killed us last year. This group doesn't necessarily need any stats if other positions do their job. They put pressure up front and don't let the qb step up they are doing their job in the pass game. They can do that on every play. They need to be space eaters and take on double teams. This allows the LBs run free and do their job and it's on them to make the tackle. They can do this. When they get a free pass though they need to be able to squeeze down and take on the pulling guard. They dominated vs the Browns. With one flaw. Nobody read any of the screens. Which makes me worried about over pursuing. Our DTs have played the position long enough to feel out when they are being let through, I don't care what level they played at.
Special Teams
Not happy with this group. Stovall pulled a KVB and fell down and still made a tackle on a punt. Bad news is that it took that long to make a tackle after a long return. We all get excited about a thirty yard play, but giving it up on a punt or kick return is the same thing. Jason seemed to be kicking the ball very high make it difficult to return the ball. Moving the ball up really makes a difference. I've been one that thought we should consider having a kickoff specialist and possibly Jason's successor. I no longer think that this year. Maybe the kickoff team is just that fast. They extremely lacked lane responsibility. No long returns which is something to consider. I'm a little worried, but they can definitely make a tackle before the 20. I think when the season starts you'll see a lot of touchbacks. Returners need to make the team some how and they are going to return everything they can in the preseason. I think Donahue looked good and is going to be the punter. Punt coverage has got to do a better job. Return side nothing to really talk about.
The Detroit Roar over and out hopefully a starting to a Roaring Lions season
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