It is certainly going to be a challenge to be positive about a defense that blew another lead late in a game..
In his 3rd year at the helm, Matt Patricias defense is still unable to consistently make plays late in video games.
While the Lions lost in significant fashion as a group, the defense played a large part in Detroits first loss this season.
Here are the grades for the Lions defense after the teams Week 1 contest with the Bears..
Defensive line: D-.
Early on, prior to Jamie Collins departure, Detroit showed the form of a defense– pressuring Mitchell Trubisky and making things challenging for the Bears offense..
In the second half, and specifically the 4th quarter, that all but disappeared..
Detroit ceased pressuring the Bears offense and the rushing lanes opened up like the Grand Canyon.
Danny Shelton, Nick Williams and Romeo Okwara need to step up as the season progresses..
Linebackers: F.
When a veteran like Jamie Collins gets himself ejected, there is no returning from such an unforced error..
The linebackers did not make any considerable effect in this one. With the skill that is available, their performance can only be seen as a major frustration in the opener.
Secondary: F.
All that truly needs to be stated is that by the end of a crucial video game, Mitchell Trubisky discovers Anthony Miller for the lead..
Who was covering Miller?
Tony McRae– yep.
Okudah, Trufant and Coleman are all hurt. With a secondary that lacked depth to start with, this was most likely going to be a group graded inadequately anyway.
The truth that a Matt Patricia coached defense can not stop Mitchell Trubisky and a less-than-stellar Bears offense will likely cost him his task..
Lions defensive back Tony McRae covering Bears wide receiver Anthony Miler © Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports.
Unique Teams: C+.
Jack Fox was excellent in his debut efficiency for the Lions..
New unique teams coordinator Brayden Coombs has some skill to deal with and their is room for enhancement..
The grade would have been much greater had Prater in fact made the 55-yard basket when hired..
