Analyzing the Lions Offensive Line vs. Packers
The Detroit Lions’ offensive line delivered a mixed yet intriguing performance against the Green Bay Packers, showcasing their strengths while also highlighting areas needing improvement. Known as one of the better offensive lines in the NFL, the Lions’ unit played a pivotal role in the game’s outcome, providing a blend of power in the run game and flashes of reliability in pass protection.
Here’s a closer look at how the Lions’ offensive line fared in key areas against a formidable Packers defensive front.
1. Run Blocking: A Show of Physicality
The Lions’ offensive line leaned into their identity as a physical, downhill unit, helping the team establish a consistent run game early. While Green Bay’s defensive line presented challenges, the Lions were able to win crucial battles at the line of scrimmage.
Key Strengths
Power in the Trenches: The Lions’ offensive line, led by standout tackle Penei Sewell and center Frank Ragnow, created gaps for running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. Their ability to generate movement was evident, especially on inside zone and power runs.
Second-Level Blocks: Guard Jonah Jackson had a standout performance climbing to the second level and sealing linebackers, which led to several chunk gains.
Sustained Drives: The line’s run-blocking effort was instrumental in helping the Lions control time of possession and maintain rhythm on offense.
Highlight Play:
A pivotal 3rd-and-2 conversion in the second quarter saw Sewell and Ragnow double-team Green Bay’s Kenny Clark, driving him off the ball to spring Montgomery for a 15-yard gain.
2. Pass Protection: A Mixed Bag
In pass protection, the Lions showed flashes of dominance but also had moments of inconsistency against a Packers pass rush that featured Rashan Gary and Preston Smith.
Strengths
Anchor Strength: Sewell continued to prove why he’s one of the best young tackles in the league, effectively neutralizing Gary for much of the game. His ability to anchor and mirror in pass sets prevented significant pressure off the right edge.
Interior Cohesion: Ragnow’s quick snaps and awareness helped the Lions handle stunts and blitz packages from the Packers’ front.
Weaknesses
Edge Pressure: Left tackle Taylor Decker struggled at times against Preston Smith’s speed and power, leading to pressures that disrupted Jared Goff’s timing.
Communication Lapses: A missed assignment in the third quarter resulted in a sack on Goff, highlighting occasional breakdowns in identifying blitzers.
Stat Line:
Sacks Allowed: 2
Pressures Allowed: 8
While these numbers aren’t disastrous, they indicate room for improvement, particularly against elite defensive fronts.
3. Adjustments and Resilience
One of the most impressive aspects of the Lions’ offensive line was their ability to adjust as the game progressed. After a slow start, the unit tightened up in pass protection and found creative ways to neutralize Green Bay’s interior disruptors.
Mid-Game Adjustments
Chip Blocks: The Lions used tight ends and running backs to chip on edge rushers, giving Goff more time to scan the field.
Tempo Changes: Quick passes and screen plays helped alleviate pressure on the line, keeping the Packers’ pass rush in check.
4. Penalties and Discipline
Penalties can be a game-changer for offensive lines, and the Lions had a mixed record in this department. A couple of holding calls stalled drives, but overall, the unit showed commendable discipline in a high-stakes game.
5. The Role of Coaching and Scheme
Offensive line coach Hank Fraley deserves credit for his preparation and in-game adjustments. The Lions’ ability to adapt their blocking schemes to counter the Packers’ stunts and blitzes was a testament to Fraley’s coaching.
Scheme Highlights
Diverse Run Game: The Lions used a mix of inside zone, power, and counter plays to keep the Packers’ defense guessing.
Play-Action Success: The line’s ability to sell run-action plays helped Goff find time to make critical downfield throws.
6. Packers Defensive Front: A Worthy Opponent
Green Bay’s defensive line, led by Kenny Clark and Rashan Gary, presented one of the tougher challenges the Lions have faced this season. Despite this, Detroit’s offensive line held their own in key moments, proving why they’re considered one of the league’s better units.
Notable Matchups
Penei Sewell vs. Rashan Gary: Sewell largely won this battle, using his athleticism and strength to neutralize Gary’s speed rush.
Frank Ragnow vs. Kenny Clark: Ragnow had a solid outing, though Clark’s ability to shed blocks occasionally disrupted the Lions’ interior runs.
7. Key Players
Penei Sewell
Sewell was the standout performer on the line, consistently winning his matchups and providing a stabilizing presence. His ability to handle elite pass rushers and contribute in the run game highlights his status as a cornerstone player for the Lions.
Frank Ragnow
Ragnow’s leadership and technical proficiency anchored the middle of the line, particularly in handling the Packers’ blitz-heavy schemes.
Jonah Jackson
Jackson’s mobility and ability to execute second-level blocks were crucial in the run game.
Final Thoughts
The Lions’ offensive line showed why they are one of the more respected units in the league, balancing moments of dominance with areas that need refinement. Their ability to impose their will in the run game while holding up against a talented Packers defensive front was key to the Lions’ success.
Moving forward, improving consistency in pass protection and minimizing penalties will be critical as the Lions aim to solidify their position as contenders in the NFC. For now, the performance against the Packers underscores the offensive line’s potential to be a driving force for Detroit’s playoff push.
