Motor City Table Talk: A look ahead at the 2014 Detroit Lions
Sep 29, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) makes a touchdown reception over Detroit Lions cornerback Darius Slay (30) in the fourth quarter at Ford Field. The Lions won 40-32. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
3. What/Who will be the Lions weak point in 2014?
Tony Fischer:
"“I think that Eric Ebron is going to have some serious problems dealing with the pressure of being a first round pick. He has already shown some signs of that in training camp after having trouble catching the ball. He later blamed it on a “mental blockage” and I suspect his recent undisclosed injury may not be physical in nature.” “Ebron could turn out to be a big bust for the Lions and a very dark black mark on Mayhew’s record.”"
Vincent Bianchi:
"“The Lions secondary struggled all of last season which is why many expected the Lions to up their secondary come draft time. Michigan State’s Darqueze Dennard seemed to be a great fit. However they didn’t draft a defensive back until the 4th round.” “Safety James Ihedigbo joins as a free agent to replace recently cut Louis Delmas. However I don’t see how that alone will improve a defensive back-field which was dreadful last season. Rashean Mathis and Darius Slay step into bigger roles and must step up. Early reports from camp say the group is improving, but we’ll see.”"
Nate Williams:
I have to agree with my cohort on this one. The Lions secondary, and Darius Slay at the No. 1 cornerback position in particular literally scares me.
I’m certainly no where near sold on the fact that Slay can cover the likes of Jordy Nelson, Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery, or Corderrelle Patterson twice per season without trouble. Hopefully the supporting cast of Rasheen Mathis, James Ihedigbo, Glover Quin and even the returning Drayton Florence can offer the guidance needed to push Slay to be a reputable starter in this league. If Slay struggles the Lions could be in a world of hurt.