Detroit Lions Dominate Titans DETROIT — The Detroit Lions (6-1) cruised past the Tennessee Titans (11-6) with a 52-14 blowout in Week 8, led by efficient offense, exceptional special teams, sharp coaching, and a formidable defensive backfield.
Here’s MLive Lions beat writer Ben Raven’s grading breakdown from the game:
Quarterbacks: Jared Goff’s efficiency is impressive. He threw for a modest 85 yards, his second-lowest career total, yet delivered three touchdowns and kept Detroit perfect in the red zone, going five-of-five. Goff completed 12 of 15 passes, spreading the ball to six different Lions. He’s staying in MVP contention, showing resilience after taking a beating in the first quarter. Grade: A
Running Backs: Jahmyr Gibbs continued his stellar play, exceeding 100 yards rushing and setting a new career record with a 70-yard touchdown run. He finished with 127 yards on 11 carries. While Montgomery added 33 rushing yards and a touchdown, he also threw a touchdown to Sam LaPorta. Gibbs keeps elevating his game. Grade: A
Wide Receivers: Despite limited opportunities, the wide receivers capitalized on all their chances. Amon-Ra St. Brown was wide open for his touchdown, securing both of his targets for 7 yards, while Kalif Raymond led with two catches for 14 yards and a score. Raymond stepped up in Jameson Williams’ absence. Grade: A
Tight Ends: Sam LaPorta led the team with six catches for 48 yards and a touchdown, which came from a halfback pass by Montgomery. Brock Wright also contributed with an 8-yard touchdown. Grade: A
Offensive Line: The offensive line struggled early, with Goff taking three sacks in the first quarter, but allowed only one more sack as the game progressed. Tennessee’s pass rush wasn’t sustained, but the line opened a perfect lane for Gibbs’ 70-yard score. Grade: B-
Defensive Line: Levi Onwuzurike stood out, applying pressure that led to an interception and recording multiple quarterback hits. James Houston also had a quarterback hit, but overall, the line lacked consistent pressure. Brad Holmes might look to add depth at defensive end, with the Titans finding limited success in the run game. Grade: B-
Linebackers: Trevor Nowaske continued to make an impact, intercepting his first pass despite being juked on a touchdown run. Alex Anzalone recorded six tackles and a sack, while Jack Campbell led with 10 tackles. With injuries affecting depth, Nowaske and Campbell have stepped up. Grade: A-
Secondary: After a shaky first quarter, the secondary adjusted, with Amik Robertson forcing two fumbles and Kerby Joseph securing his fifth interception of the season. Brian Branch made a big play on a blitz, though he was flagged for penalties. Their resilience after the early struggles was notable. Grade: B+
Special Teams: The Lions’ special teams were game-changers. Khalil Dorsey’s 72-yard kick return set up a touchdown, and Raymond had a 64-yard punt return before a 90-yard punt return touchdown. Jake Bates nailed a 51-yard field goal and all extra points, while punter Jack Fox was exceptional. Long snapper Hogan Hatten also pinned the Titans deep with a hustle play. Grade: A+
Coaching: Detroit’s coaching staff managed any potential “trap game” pitfalls, showing versatility with six different players scoring. Special teams stole the spotlight with significant contributions, while the offense converted every red-zone chance. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s play-calling found players wide open on every touchdown. Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp and head coach Dan Campbell deserve credit for impactful coaching decisions. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn also adjusted well, using linebacker and safety blitzes effectively, although more consistency from the defensive line is needed. Dan Campbell’s leadership continues to build the Lions into a cohesive force. Grade: A+