Defensive Struggles for the Lions Against the Rams
The Detroit Lions’ defense has come under fire after a disappointing outing against the Los Angeles Rams, showcasing vulnerabilities that have raised alarms among fans and analysts alike. In a game that saw the Lions surrender over 500 yards of total offense, two of their key defenders found themselves at the bottom of the Pro Football Focus (PFF) grading scale.
Alim McNeill and D.J. Reed’s Low Grades
Defensive tackle Alim McNeill, who is still working his way back from a torn ACL suffered last season, recorded a PFF grade of just 45.2. His performance has drawn particular scrutiny as he is expected to be a cornerstone of the Lions’ defensive front. Cornerback D.J. Reed, signed as a high-profile free agent in the offseason, fared even worse, finishing the game with a dismal grade of 29.5. This marked the lowest PFF score for any player on the team during Week 15.
Reed’s struggles have been evident over the past month. In his last four games, he has allowed 18 receptions for a staggering 302 yards, raising questions about his ability to perform at the level expected of a player with his pedigree.
Coach Campbell Addresses the Issues
In a recent appearance on 97.1 The Ticket, head coach Dan Campbell addressed the difficulties faced by both McNeill and Reed following the Lions’ 41-34 defeat to the Rams. He acknowledged McNeill’s desire to improve, stating, “I know Mac feels like he can play better. He holds himself to very high standards. We know there’s more in there.” The coach emphasized that factors such as overthinking and processing formations can sometimes hinder players from executing effectively.
When discussing Reed’s performance, Campbell noted the challenges that come with playing cornerback in the NFL. “Well those guys, they’re put out on an island,” he said. “You’re not going to win all those battles. Sometimes things don’t go your way, and you may have a little bit of a stretch.” He expressed confidence in Reed’s work ethic and ability to overcome the current slump, asserting that the veteran defensive back would eventually find his form.
Looking Ahead
With both McNeill and Reed under the microscope, the Lions will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next matchup. The defense must tighten up if they hope to compete effectively and turn the tide in the remaining games of the season. As the coaching staff and players reflect on their performances, the focus will be on making the necessary adjustments to restore their defensive integrity.
