The Detroit Lions returned to Ford Field on Sunday. It was the Lions’ first home game in a month, and Detroit destroyed the Tennessee Titans. A 52-14 win saw the Lions move to 6-1. It was an excellent win for the Honolulu Blue. Here are the main takeaways from this win.
Sonic Strikes Again
The Titans entered this game with one of the NFL’s best run-defense units. Jahmyr Gibbs’ speed and home run-hitting ability shredded that run defense. The highlight play was a 70-yard touchdown run. On that play, Gibbs hit 22.03mph. Per Next Gen Stats, the expected rushing yards were five, and Gibbs gained 70.
Tight end Sam LaPorta pulled across the formation for a big wham block on the formation to seal the backside, the frontside linemen sealed their side, and Gibbs had daylight. It was a perfectly executed play from the Lions, and Gibbs underlined his unique playmaking ability.
Overall, Gibbs rushed for 127 yards. All of that yardage came from runs outside the tackles. The Titans’ defensive interior is stout, and the Lions used Gibbs to attack them on the perimeter. It was a ruthless, clinical display from the Lions’ rushing attack.
Gibbs’ performance has also vaulted the youngster into an exclusive club.
.@Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs is the 4th player in @NFL history to average at least 5.0 yards per carry (10 attempt minimum) in six-straight games, joining:
– Adrian Peterson (2012)
– Chris Johnson (2009)
– Franco Harris (1972)
#OnePride pic.twitter.com/Z6lcnnBuWc— Detroit Lions PR (@LionsPR) October 27, 2024
Special Teams and Speed
Outstanding special teams helped fuel the Lions’ win. Per FTN Football, the Titans ranked 32nd in special teams DVOA before this game. That took a big hit as the Lions used the return game to devastating effect.
Khalil Dorsey recorded a 70-yard kick return to get the Lions into scoring position. And then Kalif Raymond took over. The former Titan notched 190 return yards, including a 90-yard touchdown.
The Lions’ blocking on those returns was admirable, particularly on one return where the defense was on the field. Dorsey and Raymond flashed devastating speed, clocked over 20mph on those returns, per Next Gen Stats.
The special teams plays allowed the Lions’ offense to start drives with short fields, and the offense duly cashed in.
Speaking to FOX after the game, Jared Goff praised the special teams unit and the short fields they provided the offense:
“We got some short fields. Our special teams kicked tail today. I have never experienced starting drives in plus territory and near the red zone.”
Raymond got a deserved game ball after the game and is the Lions’ game MVP.
And punter Jack Fox landed three of his five punts inside the Titans’ 20-yard line. Detroit dominated the field position battle through its outstanding special teams play.
Is Arden Key Available?
The Lions desperately need help on the defensive end. James Houston, Al-Quadin Muhammad and others struggled in the early phase to get pressure on Mason Rudolph.
Conversely, Arden Key continued working, challenging Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow. Key tallied two sacks, three quarterback hits and two TFLs. When Key left Jacksonville several years ago, he visited the Lions during the free agency period.
With the Titans at 1-6, could they deal Key to the Lions? The Lions liked Key two years ago, and the same coaching staff remains. He would certainly add some burst on the defensive line.
What Next?
For the Lions, it is Packers week. They will visit Lambeau Field next Sunday.