TWENTYMAN: Week 7 Observations

 

Tim Twentyman’s Week 7 observations provide valuable insights into the Detroit Lions’ dominant performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Here are the key takeaways:

 

1. Front Seven Dominance

 

The Lions’ front seven was instrumental in shutting down the Buccaneers’ offense, holding them to just 41 rushing yards and recording four sacks and four tackles for loss. Aidan Hutchinson and Al-Quadin Muhammad led the charge with 11 and eight pressures, respectively.

 

2. Pass Rush

 

Detroit’s pass rush was nearly unstoppable, with a pass-rush win rate of over 60%. Hutchinson and Muhammad’s impressive performance was supplemented by linebackers Jack Campbell, Malcolm Rodriguez, and Trevor Nowaske, who collectively recorded three sacks and quarterback hits.

 

3. Jahmyr Gibbs’ Breakout

 

Jahmyr Gibbs had a phenomenal game, rushing for two touchdowns and totaling 218 scrimmage yards. His 78-yard touchdown run was the longest of his career, showcasing his speed and elusiveness.

 

4. Jared Goff’s Consistency

 

Quarterback Jared Goff continued his impressive form, completing 22 of 25 passes for 280 yards and two touchdowns. He now joins an elite group of quarterbacks, including Aaron Rodgers, Kurt Warner, and Roger Staubach, with three consecutive games of 140.0+ passer rating.

 

5. Defensive Adjustments

 

First-year defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard’s game plan was spot on, featuring an aggressive man-style defense that allowed the Lions to generate pressure and make plays. The secondary, despite having four new starters, played well, and the linebackers were able to cover one-on-one in the middle.

 

6. Alim McNeill’s Return

 

Defensive lineman Alim McNeill made a significant impact in his return, recording three pressures, a tackle, and a pass deflection. His presence was felt immediately, and his performance bodes well for the Lions’ defense moving forward.

 

7. Kicker Jake Bates’ Record

 

Kicker Jake Bates made a 58-yard field goal, the longest of his career and the first kicker in franchise history to make two field goals of 58-plus yards in a single season.

 

8. Game Plan Execution

 

The Lions’ game plan was well-executed, with the team focusing on shutting down the Buccaneers’ offense and capitalizing on turnovers. While Jared Goff expressed frustration with the team’s inability to convert takeaways into points, the overall performance was impressive.

 

The Lions’ Week 7 victory showcased their strength and depth, solidifying their position as one of the top teams in the NFC. With their next game against the San Francisco 49ers looming, the Lions will look to build on their momentum and continue their winning ways ¹.