The Detroit Lions three biggest questions going into the Raiders game
By Ash Thompson
Running the ball
The Lions were the worst team in the NFL at running the ball in 2017. The importance of that aspect of football seems to fade just a little bit more every season, but a team can’t be the worst in the league at anything and be successful. Something had to change for the 2018 season.
Several things did change, and this will be the first opportunity Lions fans have to see those changes in action. The Lions fired their offensive line coach, completely revamped their scheme and made significant changes to their personnel. This will be the first time we see that new mix in action.
The Lions running game will be a more physical affair we have been told. The offensive line is going to set the tone for the entire offense. That would be a nice change from the past. The Lions have been looking for ways to work around their line for most of the last two decades.
LeGarrette Blount is not likely to play very much. It is going to be a very strange sight to see when he does. The Lions have been missing a power element to their running game since Joique Bell lost his magic.
Lions fans will get their first look at Kerryon Johnson, and that will likely be more than a “blink and you miss it” affair. It will not take Lions fans very long to judge this draft pick. They have been watching ineffective running back play for years. This should look different.
This will also be a view of how fan favorites like Ameer Abdullah and Theo Riddick fit into the new way of doing things. The Lions can’t rest everyone, and with this particular aspect of the game, there is no substitute for live action reps. It would not be surprising to see very good players at the running back position on the field for much longer than usual in the first preseason game.
Lions fans are going to see the nuts and bolts of the Lions running game on Friday. That alone is a reason Lions fans should get excited.