Detroit Lions: 4 players who need to bounce back next game

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OAKLAND, CA – AUGUST 10: Matt Cassel #8 of the Detroit Lions throws a pass against the Oakland Raiders during the fourth quarter of an NFL preseason football game at Oakland Alameda Coliseum on August 10, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Jake Rudock/Matt Cassel

I know I am cheating by putting two here, but both of them were absolutely terrible. We all knew the backup quarterback spot was going to be rough coming into this season, but we didn’t think it would be this pain staking. Just one of them needed a decent outing, but neither one of them pulled ahead on who is going to back up Matthew Stafford. Either way though, if Stafford goes down **knock on wood** this will one long season for the Lions.

Their stat line was nothing short of uninspiring. Cassel was 10 of 18 for 81 yards and Rudock was 12 of 19 for 84 yards. It was difficult to watch either one of them try to orchestrate the offense. Both of them started down their receivers, held the ball too long, and were walking right into sacks.

Rudock attempted only one pass beyond 10 yards and showed how weak his arm is by underthrowing receivers countless times. It got so bad, he was pulled in favor of Cassel for the two-minute offense in the fourth quarter. In true fashion, Cassel ended up fumbling the ball ending the game.

Cassel might have an edge on the backup QB spot, but only a slight one. With his veteran presence and familiarity with Coach Patricia, it might give him a leg up. In the offseason, this was Rudock’s job to lose because of his scheme familiarity, learning under Stafford, and he had age on his side. With his lack of progression, he is not helping his case to make the roster. If neither one of them steps up in the next game, the Lions might have to consider making a move.

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