Studs and Duds for the Lions “loss” against the Cowboys

ARLINGTON, TEXAS – DECEMBER 30: Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys looks to throw a pass against the Detroit Lions during the second quarter in the game at AT&T Stadium on December 30, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

In a game where the defense delivered a standout performance, Hutchinson emerged as the linchpin in both run and pass defense. Each of his five tackles resulted in a tackle for loss, setting a new career high. Impressively, he also matched his career-best with three sacks. Notably, one of these sacks occurred at a crucial moment, pushing the Cowboys out of field goal range and forcing them to punt instead. Hutchinson consistently asserts himself as one of the NFL’s most dynamic defensive ends, applying relentless pressure to opposing offenses week after week.

Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb makes a catch against Lions cornerback Cameron Sutton during the second half of the Lions’ 20-19 loss at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023.

It was a forgettable day for Sutton, who was assigned the challenging task of containing CeeDee Lamb, a receiver known for wreaking havoc on opposing defenses. Unfortunately, this particular night was no exception, as Lamb amassed a career-high 227 receiving yards. While it’s important to note that the entire burden doesn’t fall solely on Sutton, he spent the majority of the game matched up against Lamb.

When your cornerback leads the team in tackles, it’s indicative of a tough day, as was the case for Sutton. This experience should serve as a valuable lesson, and Sutton is likely to put in the effort to ensure such a scenario doesn’t repeat itself in the future.

Lions running back David Montgomery celebrates a touchdown against the Cowboys with quarterback Jared Goff during the second half of the Lions’ 20-19 loss at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023.

The Lions’ running game had a slow start, but they persevered, sticking to their game plan until they found their rhythm when it mattered most. Opting for a straightforward approach rather than flashy tactics, they engaged in a physical battle and executed a robust ground attack, with Montgomery taking the lead.

Operating at an efficient 4.6 yards per carry, he not only contributed the Lions’ first touchdown, putting them ahead at the time, but also played a crucial role in opening up the team’s offense when it was needed the most. Despite the seemingly modest yardage, Montgomery’s threat on the ground proved instrumental for the Lions.

Dec 30, 2023; Arlington, Texas, USA; Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (87) makes a catch as Dallas Cowboys safety Markquese Bell (14) defends during the second half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

LaPorta played a significant role in the final drive that resulted in the Lions’ touchdown. However, throughout the game, his performance in both receiving and blocking left much to be desired. Despite receiving a team-high 12 targets and gaining most of his yardage towards the end, the overall output was sluggish up to that point. Notably, his blocking was questionable, with missed assignments leading to multiple negative plays that hindered the Lions’ progress.

It’s important to remember that LaPorta is a rookie, and while such games may be challenging, they offer valuable learning experiences. These moments will contribute to his growth as a player, allowing him to emerge as a smarter and more refined contributor in future games.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS – DECEMBER 30: CeeDee Lamb #88 of the Dallas Cowboys fumbles the ball for a touchback against Kindle Vildor #29 of the Detroit Lions during the second quarter in the game at AT&T Stadium on December 30, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

The Cowboys’ offensive strategy transformed into an aerial assault, driven more by necessity than choice, as the Lions’ defense effectively stifled their running game. Tony Pollard concluded the game with only 49 yards, and when you subtract his longest run of 18 yards, he had twelve carries for just 31 yards. This showcased the Lions’ impressive run defense. Restricting the opponent to a one-dimensional attack allows for different defensive approaches and diverse scheming.

Had it not been for Lamb’s career day, the narrative surrounding the Lions’ defensive performance against the Cowboys might have unfolded quite differently. The ability to neutralize the run game played a pivotal role in shaping the overall dynamics of the Lions’ defensive strategies.

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In the early stages of the game, the Lions’ defense successfully trapped the Cowboys deep in their own territory. During a critical moment, it appeared that Dak Prescott was destined for a sack, but he miraculously escaped, launching a deep pass to Lamb that ended in a touchdown—a rare misstep for the Lions’ defense. Derrick Barnes had Prescott within his grasp but opted for a shoulder brush rather than wrapping him up for a potential safety. The play unfolded like an out-of-control missile missing its target, leading to an unfortunate outcome for the Lions.

The Lions found themselves on the unfavorable end of numerous plays, particularly in the first half, and questions were raised about Ben Johnson’s play calling. Rather than opting for a straightforward running game against the Cowboys, Johnson employed delayed handoffs that allowed the Cowboys more time to penetrate the backfield.

Additionally, some of the third-down play calls left observers scratching their heads, prompting speculation about whether Johnson might be overcomplicating the strategy.

At this juncture, there’s a call for Johnson to simplify the approach and focus on what the offense excels at, urging him to avoid overthinking and stick to the strengths of the team.