NFL Power Rankings 2019: Patriots get Josh Gordon, Chargers lose Derwin James
By Dan Parzych
30. Detroit Lions (25)
Expectations were high for the Detroit Lions around this time last year since Matt Patricia taking over the head coaching duties made it seem like the team would find a way to finally become a contender again.
Instead, Patricia’s first year with the Lions looked like a complete bust for the most part, but at least a successful offseason makes it seem like year two will be much better.
Before that happens, Patricia and the Lions are doing everything in their power to make sure they have the necessary depth at certain positions since Detroit will need all of the extra help possible competing in the NFC North.
Against the Houston Texans, Detroit’s defense didn’t exactly look too sharp after allowing 30 points in the loss, especially when it came to stopping Buddy Howell (15 carries for 84 yards with a touchdown) in the ground game.
The good news for the Lions is with a few weeks remaining in the preseason, there’s plenty of time to make the necessary adjustments on defense to make sure this improves by Week 1.
Otherwise, it could quickly turn into another year consisting of finishing on the bottom of the NFC North for the Lions.