After a sluggish start to the 2024 season, Sam LaPorta has begun to find his rhythm in recent weeks, scoring three touchdowns in his last five games.
The Detroit Lions have made a notable move on defense, placing linebacker Alex Anzalone on injured reserve and promoting linebacker David Long
Jr. from the practice squad.
Cornerback Amik Robertson expressed the difficulty of losing such a key defensive player but remains optimistic about the team’s ability to adapt.
“It’s always tough losing a player like that,” Robertson said.
“But we’ve got younger guys who can step up and handle it. If we play for one another, we’ll be fine.”
Head coach Dan Campbell also acknowledged the loss and emphasized that Malcolm Rodriguez will see a significant increase in playing time.
“I know Malcolm and Jack (Campbell) are going to play a lot for us,” Campbell said. “We’ll see how we adjust. Whether we use three linebackers or a defensive back, it’s still hard to say.
Jack is a smart, instinctive player who’s been learning from Anzalone and is ready for this challenge.”
Despite the challenges, the Lions’ defense remains a strong unit.
Cornerback Carlton Davis responded to critics who might question the team’s dominance, saying, “If people have an issue with how we’re winning, they can come out and play better football.”
In the latest NFL Power Rankings from ClutchPoints’ Mike Johrendt, the Lions have moved to the No. 1 spot. After a commanding 52-6 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, Detroit made a strong case for their position.
“We have a new team atop the list, as the Lions have ascended to the top spot,” Johrendt wrote. “Their win over the Jaguars left no doubt about who is the best team in the NFC.”
The Lions’ offensive firepower was on full display, with quarterback Jared Goff throwing for over 400 yards and four touchdowns.
Running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs contributed three touchdowns between them, while the defense smothered the Jaguars’ offense, holding them to just six points in a dominant performance.
