Detroit Lions Weblog

Lions 28 Texans 16

Sunday was a nice victory for the Lions over the Houston Texans. We learned a lot about what potential this team may have. In an ugly first half I was very concerned that the Lions were going to let the Texans hang close enough to make the result of the game go down to the wire.

Joey Harrington is starting to show signs of understanding the offense. He is still very inconsistent and too quick to give up on a play when pressured but he has asserted himself as the definite number #1 QB on the roster. His fourth quarter stats have been stellar in the first two games. So at least, in those two starts he is showing the poise and leadership necessary in order for the Lions to win games. In seasons past, the Lions have been missing this element. Also importantly, as a team they showed signs of having the ability to respond to a score by answering back. Eddie Drummond’s kickoff return for a TD really was crucial to the outcome of the game.

The emergence of Roy Williams was a sight to behold. His first TD pass was hauled in with such authority I immediately leapt from my seat. Hopefully, he will continue to emerge as a playmaker and draw the attention necessary to make Tai Streets and Az Zahir Hakim even more effective.

The Texans turnover woes were a major contributor to Lions victory. That being said, the Lions had to go out and make the plays necessary to get the ball on Texan miscues. “Big Baby” Shaun Rogers continues to make argument for his consideration as the best and most athletic defensive tackle currently strapping it on the NFL. I have been very impressed with James Hall’s early ability to pressure the passer. The lack of depth and experience at linebacker has yet to be fully exposed. Short of Chris Cash being burned badly a couple of times, the secondary has been adequate.

This victory is a nice building block, but this weeks game versus the NFC favorite Philadelphia Eagles will be indicative of the Lions season. The Eagles are coming off a major victory last night but will have a short week of preparation to face the Lions. It is imperative that Lions get off to a better start versus the Eagles so that they don’t find themselves in a situation where they have to play catch up throughout the game. The Lions must limit turnovers and have to play what will amount to being their best game of the season just to stay close in this game.