In a nail-biting finish, the Detroit Lions clinched their first preseason win with a dramatic 24-23 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, thanks to a game-winning field goal by Jake Bates in the final seconds.
After a rough start in their opening preseason game, the Lions came out looking like a different team. The offense found its rhythm, with both quarterbacks leading effective drives, while the defense held strong against the Chiefs’ starting unit. Despite a few hiccups, the Lions’ defense remained solid throughout the game. With preseason nearing its end, players on the roster bubble are making their final push to secure a spot on the team.
Here are this week’s Studs and Duds from the Lions’ victory over the Chiefs.
Stud: Isaiah Williams
Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaiah Williams (83) is shown just before the first preseason game of the season, Thursday, August 8 2024, in East Rutherford.
The Lions’ wide receiver depth has been a concern throughout training camp, and even Coach Campbell has openly challenged the group to step up. It seems UDFA Williams heard the call loud and clear. He led the team with 71 receiving yards on six catches and showcased his versatility on special teams with 41 punt return yards. Though he did lose a fumble on one return, Williams otherwise looked composed and in control throughout the game. His performance raises the question of whether he can secure a spot on the final roster, especially given his skillset, which closely mirrors what the Lions envision for Kalif Raymond. Regardless of how it plays out, Williams has made a strong case to belong on an NFL roster.
Dud: Jalon Calhoun
Aug 8, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Jalon Calhoun (80) is tackled by New York Giants running back Jashaun Corbin (35) during the second half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Calhoun was already facing an uphill battle to make the roster, and today’s performance certainly didn’t help his cause. He fumbled during a kickoff return, setting up the Chiefs with a short field, which they quickly turned into points. With his best shot at securing a roster spot being through special teams, mistakes like that are costly. He saw just one target in the passing game, which only further dims his chances. Unfortunately, his window to make an impression seems to be closing fast.
Stud: Sione Vaki
Detroit Lions running back Sione Vaki (33) looks for a way around New York Giants cornerback Alex Johnson (25), Thursday, August 8 2024, in East Rutherford.
The Lions’ interest in Vaki during the draft was no secret, and today’s performance showed exactly why he caught their eye. Vaki was everywhere on the field, racking up 60 receiving yards, 22 rushing yards, and 19 return yards, putting his versatility on full display—just as the Lions had hoped. His spot on the roster was never in doubt, but now the question becomes how high he can climb up the depth chart behind starters Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. Either way, Vaki is shaping up to be a dynamic weapon for the Lions, capable of contributing in multiple ways.
Dud: Steven Gilmore
Detroit Lions cornerback Steven Gilmore (24) was able to land on the ball after a teammate bobbled a New York Giants punt, Thursday, August 8 2024, in East Rutherford.
Stud: Kindle Vildor
Detroit Lions cornerback Kindle Vildor (29) practices during OTAs at Detroit Lions headquarters and training facility in Allen Park on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
When Vildor was re-signed this year after his infamous misstep against the 49ers, many fans groaned at the decision. But quietly, he’s been performing well throughout the preseason. Against the Chiefs, who tested the Lions’ secondary with several deep passes, Vildor stepped up, effectively shutting down anything thrown his way. While some might argue he got away with a couple of borderline penalties, credit is due—he blanketed receivers and held his own throughout the game. If he can maintain this level of play, the Lions could find themselves with impressive depth at cornerback this season.
Dud: Special Team blunders
Detroit Lions special team coordinator Dave Fipp, center, talks to players during the first half against Los Angeles Rams at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif. on Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021.
Aside from Jack Fox, who once again showcased his powerful punting leg, the Lions’ special teams had a rough day against the Chiefs. Calhoun and Williams both fumbled, the unit allowed a couple of 40-yard returns, and Jake Bates missed an extra point. These are not the kind of performances Coach Fipp was hoping to see, especially with many players relying on special teams to secure a roster spot. With just one preseason game left, it will be the last opportunity for these special teamers to clean things up and make a final push for a spot on the roster.
Stud: Jake Bates
K Jake Bates practices his kicks while P Jack Fox looks on during the Detroit Lions training camp at their headquarters in Allen Park, Mich. on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024.
Bates has had an up-and-down training camp marked by inconsistencies, and after missing an extra point today, concerns about the Lions’ kicking situation began to swirl. However, when it mattered most, Bates was cool under pressure, drilling a 43-yard field goal to secure the Lions’ win over the Chiefs. While many may focus on that missed PAT, it’s worth noting that Bates quietly went 4-for-4 on field goals, including a long of 55 yards—all in outdoor conditions. This coaching staff isn’t known for handing out jobs easily, but their patience with Bates seems to be paying off.