Last week felt like a month for the fans, but the Detroit Lions successfully righted their wrongs and put an end to the Motor City’s nightmare. They delivered an emphatic 52-21 victory over the Chicago Bears, led by former Lions offensive coordinator and recent head coaching candidate, Ben Johnson. This impressive win marked a significant milestone as the Lions became one of only four teams to score over 50 points since the start of last season, with Detroit claiming three of those high-scoring games.
In a historic performance, the Lions achieved over 500 total net yards with five passing touchdowns and two rushing scores in the same game. This victory was crucial for the team, signifying their fourth 30-point win in the last two seasons—only the Denver Broncos have accomplished this feat more than once in that timeline.
After a modest opener where he recorded only four catches for 45 yards, Amon-Ra St. Brown bounced back in a big way. He broke the 100-yard barrier and tallied the first three-touchdown game of his NFL career, showcasing his red-zone finishing ability. This performance was instrumental in helping the Lions capitalize on long drives and pull away from the Bears. St. Brown also converted seven first downs, which was the second-highest in Week 2, while contributing key blocks that allowed teammates Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery to gain extra yards. His versatility even saw him take on a couple of backfield carries, demonstrating the full range of his skill set.
Quarterback Jared Goff displayed remarkable efficiency and confidence during the game, delivering pinpoint accurate strikes and stepping up when needed. Against a struggling Bears defense, he achieved an 80% completion rate and surpassed 300 yards, throwing five touchdown passes. Such performances place Goff in elite company alongside legends like Tom Brady, Drew Brees, and Peyton Manning, as a quarterback capable of scoring 50 points on any given day. This elevates the Lions' potential to new heights.
Despite returning from a groin issue, Terrion Arnold still has room to improve. While his run defense remained a strength, the 2024 first-round draft pick needs to start accumulating positive coverage games. After allowing four catches for 86 yards and a touchdown in Green Bay, he permitted a team-leading six catches for 89 yards in Week 2. It is important to note that only 12 of his 38 coverage snaps were in man-to-man coverage. Although he made a crucial stop on the Bears' second drive, his performance left much to be desired, especially with his first career interception being negated by a penalty. The upcoming matchup against the high-flying Ravens offense presents a chance for Arnold to redeem himself.
Defensive back Brian Branch was undoubtedly Detroit’s standout defender. He made history by becoming the first Lions DB since at least 1999 to achieve five tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack, a pass defended, and a forced fumble in a single game. Branch excelled not just in tackling but also in coverage, managing to contain several key players from the Bears' roster. His performance sets a high bar as he prepares to face Lamar Jackson and the Ravens in Week 3.
Offensive coordinator John Morton faced immense pressure after Week 1 but responded with a stellar game plan against the Bears. The Lions averaged an astounding 8.8 yards per play, setting a franchise record, and scored seven touchdowns, with six occurring on consecutive drives. Morton’s adjustments, including improved protection calls and a diverse approach to run concepts, were critical in silencing his critics and defeating his predecessor.
While it may seem petty to critique a player in a blowout victory, linebacker Jack Campbell struggled with a few of Ben Johnson’s offensive schemes. His run-fit reads allowed for significant gains by Bears players, and he gave up receptions in coverage as well. Although he has time to develop, Campbell must elevate his game to become a top-tier linebacker.
The offensive line made significant strides, allowing zero sacks and accumulating over 175 rushing yards. They led the league with an impressive 3.55 yards before contact per carry in Week 2, contributing to Goff's elevated comfort in the pocket.
Aidan Hutchinson finally made his mark by recording a sack and five pressures, showcasing the dominant edge presence the Lions need.
Jameson Williams made an impact with two catches for 108 yards and one touchdown, boasting an incredible 54 yards per catch, reminiscent of legendary wide receiver Randy Moss.
Al-Quadin Muhammad received praise from head coach Dan Campbell after contributing three total QB pressures, including one sack, proving essential for the Lions' defensive efforts.
Tyleik Williams showed promise in run defense and demonstrated effective pass defense plays in just his second career game.
Despite a heads-up play by Saylor to down the first kickoff out of bounds, the kick return unit has struggled, averaging only 23.4 yards per return, ranking 24th in the league. This is a significant drop from last season's average of 31.4 yards per return, which was the second-best in the NFL.
