Following a tough road loss to the Carolina Panthers, Dan Campbell and the Detroit Lions traveled to the desert for a must-win game vs. the Arizona Cardinals. Notably, they answered the call with a 45-21 win.
The Lions' offense was as efficient as it usually is, perhaps even slightly better. Moreover, it was nice to see the defense hold its own for a change and play in a game that didn't have to go down to the wire.
While it wasn't all perfect and some guys still need to step up, there's plenty to celebrate after this big win. Considering that, let's talk about the three big studs and the one dud from this week's triumph over the Cardinals.
3 studs and 1 worrisome dud from the Lions' Week 5 win over the Cardinals
Dud: Isaac TeSlaa
Isaac TeSlaa was a complete non-factor in this one. Even though Jared Goff completed 19 of 30 passes for 271 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions, the second-year wide receiver left without recording a single stat.
Goff targeted TeSlaa twice, but to no avail. He's had a worryingly slow start to the season, and while everything can change after the bye, it doesn't sound like he's about to have that expected breakout year.
Stud: Sam LaPorta
The Lions have reportedly ended contract extension talks with Sam LaPorta, but this game may have changed their plans. He even outplayed Trey McBride, who some claim is now the best pass-catching tight end in football.
LaPorta led the team in this one, turning five targets into as many receptions for 88 yards and one touchdown. He's too valuable to the offense, and the Lions should get him and his agent to the table during the bye week.
Stud: Keith Abney II
Rookie cornerback Keith Abney II has had a tough start to his career, but he has also shown some flashes. Given the team's struggles in the secondary, he got an extended run in this one, and he certainly made the most of those opportunities.
Abney hauled in his first career interception. He also had six total tackles (five solo) and one pass defense. The Lions hinted at moving him to the slot and using him at safety, and that versatility might give them a problem-solver in the secondary.
Stud: Jahmyr Gibbs
Jahmyr Gibbs had a surprisingly quiet game in the loss to the Panthers. So, naturally, it was just a matter of time before he went absolutely bonkers and went back to his usual self, which is exactly what happened here.
Gibbs passed Barry Sanders as the player with the most touchdowns before turning 25 in NFL history (57). He had 25 carries for 151 yards and two rushing touchdowns (6.0 YPC), adding five receptions on six targets for 56 yards.
Add us as a preferred source on Google