Three and Out: Offense finally gets act together and the remarkable turnaround of sentiment toward ownership
Here are three observations after a second viewing and a night to ponder the Detroit Lions’ 42-29 win over the Seattle Seahawks.
Back on track
Seattle came into Monday having played as soft a schedule as possible in the modern NFL, plus were missing some key pieces due to injury, but for the Lions to run roughshod through a Mike Macdonald defense was meaningful, nonetheless.
Remember, a year ago, as the defensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens, Macdonald’s unit dominated and embarrassed the Lions, shutting out the team’s typically high-octane attack through the first three quarters in a 38-6 victory.
Throughout last week, I asked Detroit’s coaches how much they were looking over that tape to glean some hints on what to expect from the new-look Seahawks. Dan Campbell said it was better to leave that tape buried because the Lions’ game plan had been upended by the Ravens from the jump.
Still, after the first series on Monday, you wondered if Macdonald once again had the answer key. A few hours later, we can laugh about the overreaction.
After a sluggish start filled with inconsistencies and missed opportunities, Detroit’s offense put things together against Seattle with a game plan that epitomized what they’re about when they’re at their best: Running the ball, efficient passing, timely downfield shots and a little razzle-dazzle.