DETROIT – The Detroit Lions lost to the Dallas Cowboys Sunday as Dak Prescott and the NFL’s best offense had a big day and the Lions couldn’t match it.
The Lions defense could not come up with big plays late to stop the Cowboys. The loss ends any small chance the Lions had at the playoffs and increases the criticism surrounding Matt Patricia’s defense.
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Here’s three takeaways from the game.
No pressure: The Lions’ lack of a pass rush was on full display. Dak Prescott had all day to throw, putting up 444 yards and 3 TDs. Detroit did well enough to stop the run and get themselves into some good 3rd down situations but could not bother Prescott in the pocket. The lack of pressure coupled with breakdowns or bad coverage in the secondary spelled disaster for the defense.
The worst part is the pass rush – and defense – don’t look like they’ll get any better soon.
Offense moves the ball: The Lions offense had a good day against one of the better defenses in the NFL. Jeff Driskel was 15/16 for 209 yards and 2 TDs and added 51 yards and a TD rushing. RB Bo Scarbrough, who the Lions signed this week, looked good in his debut with tough runs adding up to 55 yards and a TD.
Overall, the offense was able to move the ball well. They took advantage of an early turnover and took a 7-0 lead. They came out and scored on their first drive of the 2nd half to cut Dallas’ lead to 3 points. And they came up with a quick score in the 4th quarter to make it 35-27 and give themselves a chance.
All said – it was an improved performance from last week and probably good enough to win most games.
Too many penalties: As good a day as the offense had, there were too many penalties, including one in a big spot at the end of the game.
Late in the 4th quarter the Lions had the ball at the 32-yard line after a big play (and a facemask penalty on Dallas). An ineligible man downfield then pushed the Lions back to 1st and 15. On 2nd down, Jeff Driskel was sacked pushing the Lions to 3rd and 26, effectively ending a good chance to score and get within a two-point conversion of tying the game.
There were also 2 penalties on good Jamal Agnew returns, losing the Lions critical field position yards and taking some positive momentum away.