When the Detroit Lions take the field, you never know what you are going to get. Some weeks you get a high-powered, high-scoring offense. On other days, you get a stalled out Ford. They have no consistency on that side of the ball. In 2017, they look for that consistency.
The Detroit Lions offense does not lack in star power. With QB Matt Stafford leading the way, the Lions are loaded. Marvin Jones and Golden Tate lead a group of receivers that include tight end, Eric Ebron. However, the running game is a lacking department on this offense.
There is no true leader when it comes to the running game of the Detroit Lions. Ameer Abdullah was drafted to be the primary back. He has lacked in that area. Injuries have played a role in that, but he was never seen as a leader in the backfield as of yet. Theo Riddick is not an every down back. If the injury bug can stay away from Abdullah there may be a chance for him to break into that leadership role.
We mentioned Marvin Jones and Golden Tate previously. They lead a group in 2017 that should fair pretty well. Although, after their names, there is a drop-off. They picked up Jared Abbrederis as a free agent this offseason. Not really a strong slot receiver. They had a chance at players like Victor Cruz and Torrey Smith in order to add depth but failed at acquiring them. The Lions passing game will have to get some solid production in 2017 from three on down in order to stay on the field.
If the Detroit Lions plan on being a playoff contender in 2017 they will need to get some help from the lesser known. The usual stars will show up and more than likely produce on a weekly basis. If they can get solid production from a running game and the underprivileged in the passing game, the Lions could make the NFC North an interesting division.
Editor’s Note: This article can also be seen in our upcoming NFL Preview Edition.