Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns: Preseason Game Recap

Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns: Preseason Game 2 Recap

The Detroit Lions 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns was over shadowed by rookie Brady Quinn's debut. Quinn came in late and played against the second and third string defenses but played well. He completed his fist five passes in a row and finished 13- of- 20 for 155 yards and two scores in the final 9:20 of the game.

Jon Kitna led the Lions in the first half finishing 12- of- 16 for 137 yards and connected with Shaun McDonald on a 14- yard touchdown pass just before half time. The Lions are now 2-0 in the preseason but appear much more comfortable in Mike Martz's system as well as with the defensive pass rush that was one of the team's Achilles last season. "The positives were we ran the ball well and didn't have any turnovers. Our first team defense still hasn't given up a touchdown and we got some good work done in the two- minute drill," said head coach Rod Marinelli.

Detroit amassed 101 rushing yards compared to just 77 by Cleveland. Tatum Bell led the way with a nice 21- yard jolt. T.J. Duckett also pitched in with 31 yards and a 15- yard touchdown. Backup place kicker Kenny Byrd was also impressive as he booted three field goals.

Detroit never got the ball to rookie receiver Calvin Johnson though. I was looking for more looks his way and another big game from him but that never happened. Detroit needs to focus on getting the rook ready for double coverage, he saw a bit of that against the Browns but there is no way that Johnson should ever put up zeroes for stats.

The Lions did have some significant injuries has guard and key offensive lineman Damien Woody went down with what appears to be a high ankle sprain on his right ankle and defensive tackle and key defensive piece Cory Redding sprained his left elbow. Both players are going to rest this week and further evaluated. Detroit also rested Roy Williams, Mike Furrey, Dewayne White and Kalimba Edwards and Jason Hanson.

From My Notepad

• Calvin Johnson recorded not one catch. He was barely looked at by Kitna-- yes, he was doubled a bit but Detroit has to find more ways to get him involved.
• The Lions run game finally emerged. Bell and Duckett added a nice one- two punch-- throw Kevin Jones into the mix and the Lions should be able to run the ball in 2007.
• Shaun McDonald had another touchdown-- he again is thriving in the Martz system and is becoming a favorite receiver of Kitna. McDonald ended the game with three catches for 47- yards and a touchdown.
• Kitna was throwing the ball well; he made nice quick reads and played HIS style, equaling zero turnovers.
• The injuries to Woody and Edwards should be minor in scope-- the Lions cannot afford to loose these key pieces to the offensive and defensive lines.
• Rookie kicker Byrd is looking good and will be a nice replacement for Hanson when he retires. Look for Hanson to continue to rest as Byrd is kicking with FORCE right now.
• Rookie defensive back Ramzee Robinson had a sweet game with five tackles and a forced fumble. Detroit needs to find solid play from their defensive backs in 2007.