The Detroit Lions showcased a stellar performance against the Chicago Bears in Week 2, winning decisively with a score of 52-12. This victory brought their season record to 1-1, setting the stage for a promising season ahead. In this article, we will analyze the Lions’ snap counts to uncover insights into their personnel usage that contributed to this impressive turnaround.
Jared Goff was the star of the game, playing 56 snaps (95%) and delivering a masterful performance during his debut at Ford Field this season. Goff completed 23 of 28 passing attempts for an outstanding 334 yards and five touchdowns, achieving a near-perfect passer rating of 156.0. With the game well in hand, the Lions opted to bring in backup quarterback Kyle Allen for the final offensive series, who managed three snaps (5%) to run out the clock.
The snap distribution among the running backs revealed an interesting trend. Jahmyr Gibbs received 33 snaps (56%), while David Montgomery recorded 23 snaps (39%), and Craig Reynolds had 3 snaps (5%) with 19 special teams snaps (59%). This slight adjustment in Gibbs’ workload compared to Week 1 can be attributed to game circumstances and the emotional factor of Montgomery playing against his former team. Reynolds saw action on all his offensive snaps as the Lions aimed to wind down the game. Notably, Jacob Saylors did not see any offensive snaps but made a significant impact on special teams, ensuring the Bears’ opening kickoff went out of bounds and granting the Lions excellent field position.
Jameson Williams led the way with 52 snaps (88%), followed closely by Amon-Ra St. Brown with 50 snaps (85%). Both players exceeded 100 yards receiving and each caught at least one touchdown. Kalif Raymond played 32 snaps (54%), while rookie Isaac TeSlaa saw his snap count rise to 17 (29%) due to his return from illness. TeSlaa’s blocking was crucial, and he made a stellar one-handed catch that set up St. Brown’s first touchdown of the day. Dominic Lovett rounded out the group with 3 snaps (5%).
The tight end snaps were split between Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright, with LaPorta playing 50 snaps (85%) and Wright 31 snaps (53%). Both players caught three passes, contributing modest yardage but fulfilling their expected roles. Unfortunately, Shane Zylstra did not see any snaps due to injury, having been carted off early in the game. He was later seen in a walking boot, leaving his status uncertain for the upcoming week.
The Lions’ offensive line was a critical factor in their success against the Bears, with each starter confident and cohesive. The line, consisting of Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge, Penei Sewell, Taylor Decker, and Graham Glasgow, played a total of 56 to 59 snaps each, allowing for an impressive average of 3.55 yards gained before contact—ranking as the best in the NFL for Week 2. Notably, the Lions did not allow a single sack throughout the game, showcasing their dominance in both run and pass protection.
On the defensive side, Aidan Hutchinson led the defensive ends with 57 snaps (84%), followed by Al-Quadin Muhammad (36 snaps, 53%) and Marcus Davenport (23 snaps, 34%). Hutchinson and Davenport continued to excel, although Davenport faced some injury setbacks. The interior defensive line saw a significant reshuffle, with Mekhi Wingo leading the unit with 37 snaps (54%) and demonstrating a notable improvement in pass-rushing capability.
The Lions utilized a three-linebacker strategy, with Jack Campbell and Alex Anzalone each playing 60 snaps (88%). Derrick Barnes contributed 53 snaps (78%), highlighting their aggressive defensive approach. In the secondary, cornerbacks Terrion Arnold and D.J. Reed each played 60 snaps (88%), emphasizing the Lions’ shift to a nickel defense as they faced the Bears.
In special teams, Jake Bates had 18 snaps (56%) and missed a 55-yard field goal, but overall, the Lions’ special teams unit showed marked improvement from the previous week. Jack Fox and Hogan Hatten each played 12 snaps (38%), contributing to the team’s overall performance.
The Detroit Lions’ decisive victory over the Chicago Bears in Week 2 not only reflects their talent but also their strategic personnel decisions throughout the game. As they move forward, understanding these snap counts and their implications will be crucial to maintaining their momentum and building a successful season.
