Detroit Lions: Rapid reactions to preseason win over Indianapolis Colts

Some quick thoughts and rapid reactions on what took place in the the Detroit Lions‘ 2017 preseason opening win against the Indianapolis Colts.

The Lions’ 2017 preseason opener is in the books and it’s a 24-10 win over the Indianapolis Colts. Here are some things that stuck out to me in the second half.

• Fans who watched Jake Rudock at Michigan probably remember his first couple games were not pretty. However, Rudock settled in and one of the things that he started to show was his ability to make positive plays with his feet when necessary. Now in his second year with the Lions, we saw that same ability show up against the Colts. The jury is still out just how good of a backup Rudock can be but it is clear he is more comfortable and has developed from year one to two.
• Rudock may not be in danger to losing his spot as the number two quarterback on the depth chart but it looks like the Lions would be wise to keep three quarterbacks on the roster this season as Brad Kaaya had an acceptable showing in his professional debut. With two young quarterbacks on the roster behind Matthew Stafford, it may make sense to keep both around to delay making a decision between the two for at least one more year. This will be continuing storyline to follow as the rest of the preseason schedule plays out.
• Hopefully the Lions get Sam Martin back soon but for as long as he is out, the team is fine at punter with Kasey Redfern. He had a really good day with punting deep with hangtime to allow his coverage unit to get in position to make a play if there wasn’t a fair catch. Redfern averaged 48.4 yards per punt and put four of his eight punts inside the 20.
• With an opportunity for not only a roster spot but playing time at defensive end, Jeremiah Valoaga and Alex Barrett performed well and made them names to watch – if they weren’t already. Valoaga and Barrett tied for the team lead with six tackles apiece and both were credited with a sack.
• Getting a win is nice but the coaching staff will feel better about the what took place to secure the win than the win itself. The Lions looked like the faster, more athletic, deeper team throughout the day. They also held an advantage over the sloppy Colts in penalties.

Next: Lions first half rapid reactions

The Lions are back in preseason action next Saturday evening when they host the New York Jets at Ford Field.