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Five questions the Detroit Lions need to answer against the Giants

By Zack Moran

Ezekiel Ansah of the Detroit Lions watches the final seconds of the clock run down during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Ford Field on January 1, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. Green Bay defeated Detroit 31-24. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)
Ezekiel Ansah of the Detroit Lions watches the final seconds of the clock run down during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Ford Field on January 1, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. Green Bay defeated Detroit 31-24. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – SEPTEMBER 18: Jarrad Davis #40 of the Detroit Lions sacks Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants in the first half during their game at MetLife Stadium on September 18, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – SEPTEMBER 18: Jarrad Davis #40 of the Detroit Lions sacks Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants in the first half during their game at MetLife Stadium on September 18, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

4. Will the Lions generate a pass rush?

The Lions defensive line made the Oakland Raiders offensive line and back up QBs look like All-Pros. The defensive line could not get any push and the Raiders ran over them literally. Between allowing 147 rushing yards and allowing the QB to have a clean pocket, it was an underwhelming performance. Alex Barrett was the only lineman to record a QB hit for the Lions.

Now Lions premier pass rusher Ziggy Ansah didn’t play and the teams weren’t scheming, so take that for face value. The defense is designed to have multiple looks and Patricia played it very vanilla against the Raiders. What you want to see though is players showcasing their athleticism and technique. For veterans and players on the roster bubble that was lacking last week.

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There were some bright spots for the Lions pass rush though. Anthony Zettel and Da’Shawn Hand were able to provide some pressure against the Raiders. If they can continue their momentum and other players step up like Devon Kennard, hopefully, we see improvements for the pass rush.

We are not sure how much Ansah is going to play this game. Coming off the PUP just a couple of weeks ago and his history of injuries, you want to take it slow with him. Also, expect another vanilla defense from Coach Patricia this week. If it means anything, the reports about the defensive line have been positive in joint practices. Hopefully, it translates into success versus the Giants.

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