The Detroit Lions kicked off their 2024 NFL season with a thrilling 26-20 overtime victory against the Los Angeles Rams. While the win is a promising start, the performance revealed areas of strength and several shortcomings that will need to be addressed moving forward. Here’s a breakdown of the Lions’ performance by position group, graded based on their Week 1 showing.
Quarterback: C
Jared Goff’s performance was inconsistent throughout the game. Completing 18 of 28 passes for 217 yards, Goff threw a touchdown but also made a costly red-zone interception in the fourth quarter that allowed the Rams to take the lead. While Goff’s decision-making raised concerns, he redeemed himself with key plays late in the game, including a 52-yard completion to Jameson Williams that helped keep Detroit’s offense alive. Overall, his lack of fluidity kept the Lions from establishing offensive momentum for much of the game.
Running Game: A-
The Lions’ running game was a bright spot, largely due to David Montgomery’s clutch performance. Montgomery carried the ball 17 times for 91 yards, including the game-winning one-yard touchdown in overtime. His 45-yard contribution in the extra period demonstrated his reliability under pressure. Rookie Jahmyr Gibbs also had a decent outing, with 11 carries and four receptions for 40 yards, showcasing his potential despite a few minor missteps.
Wide Receivers: C+
Jameson Williams stood out as a key contributor, catching five passes for 121 yards, including a stunning 52-yard touchdown that injected life into the Lions’ offense. However, the overall receiving unit struggled, particularly Amon-Ra St. Brown, who was effectively neutralized by the Rams’ defense, finishing with just three catches for 13 yards. While Williams’ breakout performance elevated the grade, more consistency is needed from the entire receiving corps moving forward.
Tight Ends: D
The tight end group, led by Sam LaPorta, had a disappointing performance. Their struggles in blocking and lack of production in the passing game were notable issues that contributed to the Lions’ offensive struggles at critical points in the game. LaPorta and his fellow tight ends will need to improve if the Lions hope to have a more balanced offensive attack.
Offensive Line: B-
While the offensive line gave up some pressure, it performed relatively well in both pass protection and run blocking, allowing Montgomery to thrive in key moments. However, the unit will need to tighten up its protection for Goff, particularly against stronger defensive fronts, as the season progresses.
Defensive Line: B+
The defensive front was one of the Lions’ biggest strengths in this game, with Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport leading the charge. Hutchinson recorded his first sack of the season and continually disrupted Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. The defensive line also generated eight quarterback hits, creating consistent pressure throughout the game. Their ability to stifle the Rams’ run game early on was another highlight.
Linebackers: B
Led by Alex Anzalone’s 13 tackles, the linebacking corps had a strong outing. Anzalone set the tone early with a hard hit on Rams running back Kyren Williams, helping the defense control the line of scrimmage for most of the game. The unit was effective in stopping the Rams’ run game but will need to continue this level of play to help support the secondary.
Secondary: D
The Lions’ secondary was the weakest link in their defense. While safety Kerby Joseph’s critical end-zone interception was a bright spot, the overall coverage and tackling were inconsistent. Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp exploited these weaknesses, finishing with 14 receptions for 110 yards and a touchdown. Additionally, rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold struggled, committing two costly pass interference penalties that led directly to Rams points. The secondary will need to tighten up their coverage and tackling in future matchups.
Special Teams: A
Special teams were a bright spot for the Lions. Kicker Jake Bates made both of his field goal attempts, including a crucial 32-yard kick that tied the game late in the fourth quarter. Punter Jack Fox also had a strong showing, averaging 47.5 yards per punt, helping the Lions win the field position battle.
Coaching: C
While Dan Campbell’s team fought hard for the victory, there were moments where coaching decisions left room for improvement. Adjustments to the Rams’ short passing game came too late, allowing Los Angeles to stay in the contest longer than necessary. However, Campbell’s decision to lean on Montgomery in overtime proved crucial. As the season unfolds, the coaching staff will need to refine their in-game adjustments to keep the team competitive against tougher opponents.
Conclusion
The Lions’ Week 1 overtime win showcased both their potential and areas of concern. While David Montgomery, Jameson Williams, and the defensive front delivered strong performances, Jared Goff’s inconsistency and the secondary’s struggles highlighted key areas for improvement. Moving forward, the Lions will need to address these weaknesses if they hope to contend in the NFC and build on this hard-fought victory.
