Detroit Lions Fall to Washington Redskins, 21-17
By Zac Snyder
Dreams of a perfect preseason have been shattered as the Detroit Lions fall to the Washington Redskins by a score of 21-17 in preseason game number two.
The good news is that the first team offense was fine and the first team defense was constantly in Robert Griffin III’s business. After that, as can happen with preseason football, it got tough to watch.
WATCH: Lions hit RG3…a lot…
Here are some rapid reactions and observations from the second half.
- Let’s start with some good and that was undrafted rookie running back Zach Zenner. He had a nice game on the ground last week but was able to show off more of his skills as a receiver tonight, including a nice 36-yard catch and run. More impressive than that big gainer, however, was his touchdown grab in which he showed nice route running ability with a sharp break to gain extra separation from the defense for an easy score.
- Zenner should be ahead of George Winn if their battle for a roster spot was limited to their play at running back, but special teams play is important for guys deeper on the roster. Zenner missed a tackle opportunity on special teams tonight so the edge in that phase of the game remains with Winn. The Lions look to have a tough decision on their hands when final roster are set in a few weeks.
- Kyle Van Noy continues to look lost on defense way too frequently. Accounting for role and expectations, I’m not sure there has been a bigger disappointment so far.
- The Redskins had far too much room to work with in the Lions defensive backfield tonight, especially in the second half. The Lions may be fine with their top pairings of corners and safeties, but the depth behind them leaves much to be desired. Some people will need to step up or the Lions could be forced to start looking around at alternatives.
- Ryan Broyles see much game action despite Lance Moore being out of action following the birth of his daughter earlier today. It goes without saying that that isn’t good news for Broyles’ chances to make the 53-man roster.
- A week after being the second quarterback to see action, Kellen Moore was third in the game tonight. Once again, he was out-played by Orlovsky.
The Lions resume preseason play next Thursday when the take on the Jaguars in Jacksonville. That game will be televised nationally on CBS.
Next: First half rapid reactions