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Lions Thanksgiving grades: The Detroit Lions escaped what would’ve been a brutal collapse vs. the Bears.
Lions Thanksgiving grades: The Detroit Lions escaped what would’ve been a brutal collapse vs. the Bears.
But there was still more good than bad on Thanksgiving. Let’s hand out some grades.
For the second time this season (Texans game), it was a story of two very different halves for the Detroit Lions on gameday. The first half was utterly dominant against the Chicago Bears, but it was overshadowed by a collapse that nearly cost them the game.
When grading a game like this, it’s important to not overlook both the good and the bad. Because, in the end, the Lions not only got the win, but they outgained the Bears pretty handily both overall (405 vs. 301) and on a per play basis (5.9 vs. 5.1).
Still, there’s plenty to clean up. So let’s hand out some Thanksgiving grades.
Quarterback: B
Jared Goff’s final statline was pretty modest: 21-of-34 for 221 yards, two touchdowns and a 100.2 passer rating. Like for most of the season, Goff did a great job avoiding negative plays and throwing the ball away when he needed to. That said, it did feel like he missed some checkdown opportunities where the Bears were seemingly okay in giving up. Instead, he held onto the ball looking for the perfect play to emerge.
Still, in a game that was as close as it was, not making the fatal mistake at any point in this game turned out to be a pretty huge deal.
Running backs: B+
This would have been an A+ day for the backs had it not been for Jahmyr Gibbs’ costly fumble in the red zone. Detroit was on their way to putting the Bears down 23 points in the first half when Gibbs’ fumble happened. There likely would not have been any late-game dramatics had he held onto the ball. So I’m docking significant points for just that one play.
That said, the duo of Gibbs and David Montgomery was fantastic for the rest of the game. They combined for 175 rushing yards on just 30 carries (5.8 YPC) and added five catches for 53 yards in the receiving game. Neither found the end zone, but that was more due to some questionable red zone calls (more on that later).
Wide receivers: B-
Again, a strong day from this group was marred by a couple of uncharacteristic mistakes. Jameson Williams was electric with the ball in his hands, but his day was overshadowed by a lose-your-cool moment that cost the Lions 15 yards. He was also flagged for a crackback block, although I didn’t personally agree with that call.
Amon-Ra St. Brown turned five catches into 73 yards, but a holding penalty in the red zone moved the Lions from the 2-yard line to the 14, eventually leading to a field goal instead of a prime touchdown opportunity.
Tim Patrick continues to be a very strong weapon for this team, though. Though he only had two catches, both were explosive plays: gains of 30 and 18 yards.
Tight ends: A
Sam LaPorta only had three catches for 6 yards, but two of those were for touchdowns—something that is not easy to do against a top-five red zone defense. Additionally, Brock Wright had another big play—a 13-yard catch to get a second-half drive off to a strong start.
I did not notice any blocking issues from this group upon live viewing.
Offensive line: A-
For as much warranted worry as there was with no Taylor Decker in the lineup, I thought the offensive line fared quite well. Jared Goff only took one sack and three quarterback hits. The line was also opening up massive holes in the run game early and often, leading to Detroit’s second-highest rushing total of the season (194). That said, it’s hard to overlook the Lions’ failed third-and-1 conversion late, where Montgomery had absolutely nowhere to go and actually lost a yard. I’ll only ding them half a grade there because otherwise, it was a very strong performance.
Defensive line: A-
The defensive line pressure wasn’t there consistently all game, but it certainly came up in big moments. And considering all of the injuries this group endured, this was a pretty impressive performance from a bunch of reserve players.
In fact, three of the best performances of the day came from this unit:
DJ Reader: 3 QB hits, 2.0 sacks
Za’Darius Smith: 3 QB hits, 1.5 sacks
Al-Quadin Muhammad: 1 QB hit, 1.0 sack, 1 pass defended
On top of that, D’Andre Swift was a non-factor in the run game, rushing for just 39 yards on 11 carries. Essentially, the Bears had to abandon the run completely in the second half, allowing Detroit to pin their ears back and pass rush.
Again, there were times in which the pass rush was absent for too long—which allowed receivers to get wide open—but in the clutch, this group performed.
Linebackers: B
Early on, this group was making some huge plays. Malcolm Rodriguez played a wheel route perfectly—a tough ask—picking up a pass batted down to add to his five tackles before an injury took him out of the game. Jack Campbell provided a couple of big third-down plays: first a pressure that forced a throwaway, and then he tracked down Caleb Williams to force him out of bounds 3 yards short of the sticks. Even David Long was out there making plays.
But after the Rodriguez injury, the defense took a notable step back, and some of the crossing routes over the middle became open.
Defensive backs: C+
This was the biggest difference between the first and second halves, in my opinion. In the first two quarters, the Lions secondary absolutely clamped down the Bears receivers. Williams found nobody open, and both Terrion Arnold and Kerby Joseph came up with some huge pass breakups to hold Chicago without a first down until the final seconds of the first half.
But in the second half, the Lions’ man coverage was not holding up. They weren’t helped by occasional lapses in pass rush, but it became clear as the day went on that the Bears’ talented receiving corps was too much for them. Both DJ Moore (eight catches, 97 yards, TD) and Keenan Allen (five catches, 73 yards, 2 TDs) were winning their 1-on-1s consistently in the second half. 163 of their collective 170 yards came in the final two quarters.
Special teams: B
For most of the game, special teams was just fine. After bobbling his first punt return, Maurice Alexander was just fine back there, and the Lions’ coverage team only had to deal with one return—a kickoff that was tackled well before the 30-yard line.
But this unit was defined by two key plays: one good, one bad. Jake Bates’ critical miss—his first missed field goal of the season—quite nearly cost the Lions an opportunity to put the game away. However, Jack Fox’s last punt of the game—which was downed at the Bears’ 1-yard line—turned out to be one of the most important plays. That forced the Bears to drive the entire length of the field to tie or win the game, and when you give the Bears that much rope, they’ll eventually find a way to hang themselves with it.
Coaching: B
First of all, let’s give thanks to Lions’ coaching staff for not being the Bears’ coaching staff. Matt Eberflus put up a masterclass of terrible game management at the end, and he also had a horrible challenge to go with his embarrassing day.
As for the Lions, I don’t think there was anything Dan Campbell did, in particular, that was a mistake. You could make the argument that he should have gone for it late on fourth-and-2 from his own 38-yard line—and he’s gone for it in situations like that before—but Detroit’s defense was on its heels at that point, and potentially giving them a short field would’ve been terrible. The subsequent punt was downed at the 1-yard line, so that choice worked out just about as well as it could’ve.
I don’t love criticizing play calling because it’s the easiest and laziest thing to do with the benefit of hindsight. However, it just didn’t feel like offensive coordinator Ben Johnson did himself any favors in the red zone.
It also felt like they went away from the run game in the second half. After carrying it a combined 20 times in the first quarter, Gibbs and Montgomery had just 10 carries in the second half (although, they ran far fewer offensive plays in the second half).
Still, I think the main problem with the offense in the second half was more execution based than poor play-calling, so it was overall a relatively positive day from the coaching staff.
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Cam Ward Wins Davey O’Brien Award
University of Miami senior Cam Ward has been voted the 2024 Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award winner, as announced on ESPN’s The Home Depot College Football Awards Thursday evening.
Ward is the third Hurricane to garner the country’s oldest and most prestigious quarterback trophy, joining Vinny Testaverde (1986) and Gino Torretta (1992).
The 6-foot-2, 223-pound signal caller leads the nation in passing touchdowns (36) and quarterback rating (88.0), while ranking second in passing yards (4,123), points responsible for (254) and total offense (359.9).
Ward set new single-season school records for both passing touchdowns and passing yards, becoming the first Miami player to tally seven straight 300-yard performances.
The Hurricanes’ first ever ACC Player of the Year has thrown for at least 300 yards and totaled three touchdowns on 10 occasions.
A fifth-year senior, Ward matched Houston’s Case Keenum for the most career passing touchdowns (155) at the NCAA Division I level.
Ward and the Hurricanes have mounted the top offense in the country, as Miami paces all FBS programs in scoring offense (44.2), total offense (538.3), yards per play (7.6), first downs (327) and third down conversion rate (56.5)
The West Columbia, Texas native has guided the Hurricanes to their first 10-win campaign in seven years.
During the regular season, Ward tied for the nation’s lead in Davey O’Brien Great 8 selections, racking up five weekly honors.
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New Orleans Saints Pull Blockbuster Deal to Land Star Quarterback Jared Goff from Detroit Lions, Bolstering Offensive Arsenal for Next Season..
DEAL ACCEPTED: New Orleans Saints Pull Blockbuster Deal to Land Star Quarterback Jared Goff from Detroit Lions, Bolstering Offensive Arsenal for Next Season..
New Orleans Saints Pull Blockbuster Deal to Land Star Quarterback Jared Goff from Detroit Lions, Bolstering Offensive Arsenal for Next Season
In a groundbreaking move, the New Orleans Saints have finalized a blockbuster trade to acquire star quarterback Jared Goff from the Detroit Lions. This surprising development sends ripples through the NFL, as the Saints look to solidify their offensive lineup and build on their ambitions for next season.
The Details of the Trade
The Saints reportedly offered a lucrative package to the Lions in exchange for Goff. The deal includes multiple draft picks, including a first-round selection in the upcoming NFL Draft, and two prominent players from New Orleans’ current roster. While the exact terms are still unfolding, insiders suggest the Saints spared no expense in landing the Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback.
This trade marks a significant shakeup for both teams. The Lions, who are in the midst of a roster rebuild under head coach Dan Campbell, have chosen to part ways with Goff after two seasons in Detroit. Meanwhile, the Saints are betting big on Goff’s experience and talent to lead their offense to new heights.
Goff’s Credentials
Jared Goff, 29, entered the league as the first overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, selected by the Los Angeles Rams. During his time with the Rams, he led the team to a Super Bowl appearance in the 2018 season and earned two Pro Bowl nods. Known for his strong arm, accuracy, and leadership on the field, Goff transitioned to the Lions in 2021 as part of a trade involving Matthew Stafford.
In Detroit, Goff showcased resilience and poise, amassing over 4,000 passing yards and 29 touchdowns in the 2023 season. His performance highlighted his ability to thrive under pressure and manage games effectively. The Saints are undoubtedly counting on these attributes as they aim to contend in the competitive NFC South.
What This Means for the Saints
The acquisition of Goff signals a shift in strategy for the Saints. Head coach Dennis Allen and general manager Mickey Loomis have made it clear that their focus is on winning now. With Goff at the helm, the Saints have a proven leader capable of elevating their offense, which struggled with consistency in recent seasons.
Goff’s addition also raises expectations for the Saints’ talented roster. Wide receiver Chris Olave and running back Alvin Kamara are expected to benefit significantly from Goff’s ability to distribute the ball efficiently. Paired with the team’s robust offensive line, the Saints could emerge as a top contender in the NFC.
Reaction Around the League
The trade has garnered widespread attention across the NFL. Analysts and fans alike are weighing in on the implications for both teams. ESPN’s Adam Schefter described the deal as “a bold move that underscores the Saints’ urgency to compete at the highest level.” Meanwhile, critics have questioned whether the Lions received enough value in return for a quarterback of Goff’s caliber.
Former Saints quarterback Drew Brees also chimed in, expressing optimism about the team’s future. “Jared Goff is a tremendous talent and a great leader. He’s exactly what the Saints need to make a deep playoff run,” Brees said in a statement.
The Lions’ Perspective
For the Lions, the trade represents a commitment to rebuilding with a long-term vision. By parting ways with Goff, Detroit creates opportunities for younger talent and adds valuable draft capital to reshape their roster. While fans may lament the departure of a dependable quarterback, the move aligns with the Lions’ goal of constructing a sustainable winning culture.
Looking Ahead
As Goff prepares to don the black and gold, the Saints are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting season. The team’s schedule includes high-profile matchups against NFC powerhouses, and all eyes will be on Goff to see if he can deliver under the bright lights of New Orleans.
With this blockbuster trade, the Saints have sent a clear message: they are all-in on their quest for a championship. Whether this gamble pays off will be one of the most intriguing storylines to watch in the upcoming NFL season.
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CONGRATULATIONS: Former Raiders QB and two-time Super Bowl champion Jim Plunkett has been inducted into the Hall of Fame after……
CONGRATULATIONS: Former Raiders QB and two-time Super Bowl champion Jim Plunkett has been inducted into the Hall of Fame after……
A long time ago, Jim Plunkett established the case for his football legacy. First, in East San Jose’s James Lick High School, a mural of the two-time Super Bowl winner adorns the campus quad.
The quarterback for Stanford then won the Heisman Trophy after leading his team to a resounding victory over Ohio State in the 1971 Rose Bowl.
Ten years later, in New Orleans, he won Super Bowl XV MVP honors after leading the Oakland Raiders to an upset victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, the game’s favorite team.
The only player eligible with two Super Bowl rings as a starting quarterback who isn’t already inducted is Plunkett, and he is one of 31 Seniors category players being considered for the 2025 class by the Pro Football Hall of Fame committee.
Despite this, Plunkett claims he isn’t giving any thought to his football credentials. The 87-year-old former coach of Plunkett, Tom Flores, whose induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame was long overdue, occupies Plunkett’s mind instead.
According to Plunkett, Flores is dealing with health problems following back operations. “During my recent visit to Flores’ home, I primarily discussed health and family with him,” Plunkett said. “The careers we’ve had.”
Flores and the Raiders gave Plunkett a second opportunity at a successful career a long time ago. In 1978, Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis signed the 30-year-old quarterback as a backup after he had terrible spells with the Patriots and 49ers.
In 1980, after starter Dan Pastorini suffered a leg injury early in the season, Plunkett won nine of the final eleven games of the regular season and three more to earn a spot in the Super Bowl.
Michael Trevino, a 19-year-old from Gilroy, and three pals rode a Greyhound bus to the Super Bowl that year. Trevino used his connections with fruit growers in New Orleans to get $40 tickets on the Superdome’s 20-yard line.
As the Raiders were led to victory by Plunkett’s three touchdown passes, Trevino, dressed as “Mr. Garlic” from the Gilroy Garlic Festival, stood by and watched. Quarterback was chosen Most Valuable Player in Super Bowl.
Super Bowl XVIII was won by the Washington Redskins by Plunkett and the relocating Los Angeles Raiders three years later. If Plunkett were to be admitted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, it would mean everything, according to Trevino, who is currently co-chair of the Chicano-Latino Alumni Chapter at UC Berkeley.
It’s meritocratic, and it would have real significance for Latinos. Few Mexican-Americans played football for us. That was motivational. The Latino community flourished for the Raiders under the leadership of Flores and Plunkett.
We had these players. We had this squad. The induction of Plunkett “would serve as a powerful reminder of what s possible for our students, no matter their background or challenges,” wrote Lick High Principal Honey Gubuan in an email.
Dave Cortese, a Democrat from Silicon Valley and a lifelong resident of San Jose, was born and reared in an orchard farming family not far from Lick High School. Plunkett is “the guy’s an icon here,” Cortese said of him.
Despite all, he was just your average man from the neighborhood. His entire existence followed that enchanted path. Cortese went to the 1971 Rose Bowl as a youngster thanks to his dad’s impromptu ticket purchase in the stadium’s parking lot. Cortese, crammed into a stairwell above one of the Rose Bowl end zones, saw Plunkett’s fourth-quarter touchdown throw clinch Stanford’s victory.
The following day, while staying at a San Pedro hotel, the Cortese family unexpectedly ran across the Stanford football team. Just outside the hotel restaurant, Plunkett was hitched to a diner.
He autographed Dave’s game ticket. With Plunkett’s resurrection leading a Raiders squad that had failed to make the playoffs in 1978 and 1979, Cortese proclaimed, “It’s time” for Plunkett’s enshrinement.
“The whole team was struggling, so it wasn’t just him who made a major comeback.” Plunkett says he felt “extremely fortunate” to play in Oakland. Regarding his early years as a professional, he admits, “I struggled for a long time.”
For the Raiders, I discovered a calling. The way it turned out is something I’m grateful about. Before the team relocated in 1982, Plunkett was grateful for the support he had from Oakland fans.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame has announced that nine players will be selected from the current group of thirty-one Seniors. Charlie Conerly and Ken Anderson are two other quarterbacks that are being considered.
Only on-the-field accomplishments are considered. Of the remaining nine players, the committee will select three for possible induction. The Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025 will be announced in February in New Orleans. The enshrinement is in August in Canton, Ohio.
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