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

A’Shawn Robinson

The whole defensive line was in shambles during the game, but if I had to pick one player it would have to be Robinson. Going into the season, it was obvious the defensive line needed some serious help. The one player everyone really didn’t worry about was Robinson. Between the defensive scheme favoring his skill set and the familiar face in Bo Davis, he was expected to take that big leap forward in his third year.

When Robinson was playing late in the game, it became apparent Patricia was not liking what he was seeing from him. Robinson’s weaknesses were clearly visible to everyone. The Raiders were able to run the ball with ease and the quarterbacks had a clean pocket majority of the game. In the end, Robinson ended up finishing with only one solo tackle.

Robinson has had an unspectacular career so far and most people are calling him a bust. Robinson’s sole responsibility is to be the gap control defensive tackle, not a pass rusher. If he is unable to control the gaps on a consistent basis, Robinson’s value is nearly nil for this defense.

With Da’Shawn Hand’s emergence in the last game, he is getting more first team looks. In turn, pushing Robinson to second-team duties. Robinson was going through some minor injuries during camp so that might have contributed to his weak play. In order for Robinson to step up the next game, he needs to show he can control his gaps and stuff runners in their place against the Giants.

I could’ve gone with a number of other players who need to rebound next game. For instance, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Luke Willson, Sylvester Williams, and Michael Roberts. Hopefully, in their game against the Giants, they will be able to shake off some rust and perform at a higher level. As long as we see some sort of progress, that will be at least a step in the right direction.