The Detroit Lions’ performance against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday Night Football left a mixed bag of impressions, with several players seeing their stock rise or fall. Let’s dive into the 8 Risers and 9 Fallers from this matchup ¹.

8 Risers

– Penei Sewell, RT: Sewell was a rock on the right side, showcasing why he’s a contender for the NFL Protector of the Year award. He handled edge rushers like George Karlaftis effectively, allowing minimal pressure.

– Sam LaPorta, TE: LaPorta had a standout game, catching 5 of 6 targets for 55 yards and a spectacular touchdown. He’s setting career highs and proving to be a consistent, versatile weapon.

– Jameson Williams, WR: Williams showed physicality and dominance as a run blocker and maintained high-effort collisions. He’s looking to build momentum against the Buccaneers.

– Al-Quadin Muhammad, DE: Muhammad recorded a sack and pressures, showcasing pass-rush potential. His presence gives Detroit’s front an athletic element.

– David Montgomery, RB: Montgomery was efficient with 6 touches for 61 yards, remaining a dependable spark for the offense.

– Dan Skipper, LT: Skipper filled in admirably for Kerby Joseph, logging snaps and making crucial plays.

– Trystan Colon, OL6: Colon’s snaps produced 23 rushing yards, highlighting creativity and physicality up front.

– Arthur Maulet, NB: Maulet saw limited snaps but was targeted for a 17-yard catch, showing promise.

9 Fallers

– Brian Branch, S: Branch’s stock took a hit after punching JuJu Smith-Schuster, leading to a one-game suspension. His aggression needs channeling.

– Rock Ya-Sin, CB: Ya-Sin’s performance was concerning, getting beaten for big plays. Zone coverage struggles against Mahomes were evident.

– Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR: St. Brown had an off day, with a fourth-down drop and limited impact (5 yards per catch).

– Jahmyr Gibbs, RB: Gibbs finished with 3.8 yards per carry and 34 total yards, lacking explosive plays.

– Kerby Joseph, S: Joseph’s in-and-out performance included 4 missed tackles, his most this season.

– Isaac TeSlaa, WR: TeSlaa played 25 snaps but missed blocks and went untargeted on routes.

– Patrick O’Connor, DL: O’Connor’s impact was minimal, lacking pass-rush production.

– Brock Wright, TE: Wright struggled as a blocker, allowing pressures and missing run blocks.

– Jack Campbell, LB: Campbell swam in coverage, struggling against Chiefs’ quick-pass schemes.

Key Takeaways

The Lions’ loss highlighted areas needing improvement, particularly defensive vulnerabilities against the Chiefs’ offense. Players like Sewell and LaPorta showed strength, while others like Branch face disciplinary repercussions. Coach Dan Campbell’s assessment underscores the team’s potential and areas for growth ¹ ².