NFC North First-Half Recap
Third Place: Detroit Lions (3-4)
The Lions came into 2017 with level expectations. The defense wasn’t expected to do much, while the offense looked promising.
Halfway through the season it’s safe to say the Lions have been the exact opposite.
While the offense hasn’t been horrible by any means, the defense has been what’s won the Lions their three wins. In wins over the Giants (24-10) and the Vikings (14-7), the defense has stepped up big and delivered.
Tahir Whitehead's interception that set up the Lions TD: https://t.co/PREpo2zMwV
— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) September 19, 2017
Matthew Stafford continues to play at a high level, but that’s about it for the offense. Ameer Abdullah has had a mediocre first half (369 rush yards), but the running game has struggled with Stafford being the next-leading rusher at 68 yards.
Wide receivers Golden Tate and Marvin Jones Jr have been solid as well, but poor work by the offensive line, and a lack of depth have really hurt the Lions.
Matthew Stafford rolls left and hits @MarvinJonesJr for a gain of 44 yards! #OnePride #PITvsDET https://t.co/0jDPFOSaWe
— NFL (@NFL) October 30, 2017
The Lions have their work cut out for them. Two games remaining against the Rodgers-less Packers will likely define the season, as will two remaining games against the Bears.
The Lions have time on their side. If the offense clicks and the defense stands tall, the Lions will climb in the second half.