In this second week of preseason we are now looking for some kind of consistency from NFL teams. Can the Buccaneers line rebound? Or are they doomed for the entire year? Are some of the 2nd half players we saw that put up big numbers going to get more of an opportunity with the 1's?
The Lions demolished the Jets in the first preseason game leaving little to question. Matthew Stafford looked ready for the season completing a 35 yard touchdown pass to Golden Tate. Ameer Abdullah broke several big runs that have made him the favorite to take over the running back position. The starters only played one series before sitting out.
Now with the Lions taking on the Redskins here are 5 things to look for...
1. Is the Lions running game for real?
Can Ameer Abdullah perform like this every game for the Lions? Abdullah is coming off a breakout performance against the Jets however can he be consistent? Is Abdullah destined to lead the Lion's running game for good, these things will be figured out in preseason.
2. The Lions defense should have a harder time with the Redskins.
The Redskins are better offensively than the Jets so this should be more of a contest. The Jets have the offensive firepower of a wet blanket and the Redskins at least have Alfred Morris. RGIII regardless of his injuries is also a better quarterback than Ryan Fitzpatrick so it will be interesting to see how well the Lion's defense handles Washington's offense.
3. Can RG3 string together some consistency?
RGIII was dramatically cold at times during his first taste of preseason action. He also could have connected for a 60 yard bomb to Pierre Garcon that was dropped, and it certainly was RGIII's fault. He threw the ball perfectly a lot similar to how he was throwing the first year we saw him. There were other times however that RGIII struggled and underthrew his receivers. Which Robert Griffin III will we get in this game?
4. Can the Redskins secondary improve?
The Redskin's secondary has been decimated by injury and is looking like it will give up a ton of points this season. Can their backups right the ship before it capsizes?
5. Who will start at tight end for the Redskins?
A part of me wants to say Chris Cooley but the Redskins have yet to sign him. The Redskins have signed D.J. Williams and Ernst Brun to contracts after losing Niles Paul to an ankle fracture dislocation and Logan Paulson to a toe injury; both injuries are severe and will require both players to miss the entire season. Their backup tight end Jordan Reed also injured his hamstring so it is unlikely he will be seen on the field anytime soon.
