The Detroit Lions offense needs to get back on track this week after a disappointing performance against the Green Bay Packers. While the Packers defense looks legit, there were far too many self-inflicted wounds from the Lions offense that needs to be cleaned up before it’s too late.
The Chicago Bears defense had a great showing last week… for three quarters. So there’s no guarantee of a get-right game for the Lions offense. However, with a week to adjust to some correctable mistakes and a roster full of talent, it’s reasonable to expect a more competent performance on Sunday at Ford Field.
So today’s Question of the Day:
Which Lions player on offense is most important vs. the Bears?
My answer: I’m going to go chalk here and say Amon-Ra St. Brown. With Bears starting nickel cornerback Kyler Gordon officially out this week—combined with the return of Jaylon Johnson—St. Brown may have the best mismatch of any Lions receiver this week. Veteran Nick McCloud played in Gordon’s spot last week, and while PFF only credited him with a single reception for 2 yards, they apparently didn’t think much of his coverage skills for the entire game. He earned a 43.1 coverage grade and a 44.1 overall mark.
St. Brown is, and will almost always, be the team’s focal point in the passing game. Despite last week’s offensive struggle against the Packers, St. Brown still saw six targets and turned those into four catches for 45 yards.
The Lions’ All-Pro receiver is hyped up to play against his former offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson, too, not to mention his former wide receivers coach, Antwaan Randle El.
“I’m excited to play them, just to get back on track, though,” St. Brown said this week. “I think for us as a team, it’s going to be big. It’s a big game for us. It’s a division game at home. First home game is always rockin’.”
St. Brown with some extra juice: look out.
What Lions player on offense do you think is key vs. the Bears?
