The Detroit Lions started their season against the Philadelphia Eagles. With the momentum behind them, it seemed like the Lions could pull off a Week 1 victory. But alas, this was not the case as the Lions lost 38-35 against the Eagles.

However, this was still a good game for the Lions.

Aidan Hutchinson didn’t get a sack, but he made Jalen Hurts very uncomfortable in the pocket. He had a good performance for a rookie defensive lineman. Jeff Okudah also had a very good game and one he desperately needed after he missed almost all of last season due to a season-ending injury in Week 1.

Devonta Smith, Eagles wide receiver, was not able to make a single reception when Okudah was covering him. It seems that he will have a great season this year.

Despite the play from Okudah and Hutchinson, that is not to ignore the fact that the defense gave up 38 points.

Tracy Walker was thrown out of the game for getting into an unnecessary scuffle with the Eagles offense after he had a late hit on Jalen Hurts. It is unacceptable for a captain to get thrown out of the game in a Week 1 matchup; it hurts the team’s performance, especially for the rookies. He did apologize for what happened however after the game, and said quote:

“It’s a learning experience for me, and I will be better for here on out.”

On the offense, the Lions played pretty well but still could’ve been better.

Jared Goff, the Lions quarterback, threw a couple of touchdowns, but he still threw a crucial pick six that gave the Eagles a huge lead. In the end, he wasn’t bad, but he still played like Jared Goff.

Amon Ra St. Brown played well. With 8 receptions for 64 yards and a touchdown, St. Brown will most likely be the WR 1 this season, as Jameson Williams remains on the IR list.

In his Lions debut, D.J. Chark didn’t do too bad either, recording 54 yards receiving on 4 receptions, along with a touchdown as well. Looks like a good pickup for the Lions in the offseason.

The running back duo of Jamaal Williams and D’Andre Swift both combined for 172 yards and 3 touchdowns. It seems that the Lions opponents should fear the running back duo in the league because they both had amazing games.

So overall, even though the Lions didn’t win their Week 1 game, they showed skill throughout, and even if an Eagles win was imminent, they still played their hearts out as if the game was still within reach.

Signs point to the Lions have significantly improved in the offseason, even if they started 0-1. I’m optimistic for what the future holds for the Lions as the season progresses.

The Lions will play the Washington Commanders at home in Week 2.