The Detroit Lions faced a challenging path in their Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams but managed to pull off a gritty 26-20 overtime victory.
It was clear the Lions weren’t quite in sync, with the game marked by mistakes that are usually uncharacteristic for this team. A big factor could be the limited preseason action, as many of the key players did not participate, leading to inefficiencies on both sides of the ball. While the offense did enough to secure the win, the overall execution felt disjointed compared to their past performances. On defense, despite a much-needed overhaul and added talent, the unit experienced noticeable growing pains.
While there were certainly areas for improvement, a win is a win—and in the NFL, you take them however they come. Let’s break down the Studs and Duds in the Lions’ victory over the Rams.
Stud: Jameson Williams
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – SEPTEMBER 08: Jameson Williams #9 of the Detroit Lions celebrates his 52-yard touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams in the third quarter at Ford Field on September 08, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
The buzz out of training camp was that Jameson Williams was poised to make a major impact in the NFL, and if anyone wasn’t paying attention before, they certainly are now. Williams had a breakout performance, racking up 121 receiving yards and adding another 13 on the ground. His highlight of the night was a stunning 52-yard touchdown, where he burned Tre’Davious White to give the Lions an extended lead. Fans have been waiting for a performance like this from Jamo, and he delivered in prime time, showing the world what he’s capable of. The arrow is pointing up for the young receiver, and this game marks a significant step in his development.
Dud: Brian Branch
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – DECEMBER 16: Brian Branch #32 of the Detroit Lions reacts after a defensive stop during the first half against the Denver Broncos at Ford Field on December 16, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Heading into his second year, much attention was on Brian Branch as he transitioned to safety, and it’s safe to say the move is still a work in progress. Early on, he missed a pass breakup he would usually make, and later in the game, he dropped what could have been a momentum-shifting interception. To make matters worse, Branch was beaten on several receptions, including a 63-yard bomb to Tyler Johnson that set up a Rams field goal. While he did manage to contribute with some key run stops, the game was largely uncharacteristic for Branch. He’ll need to clean up these mistakes moving forward, but there’s plenty of time for the young safety to adjust and grow into the role.
Stud: Alex Anzalone
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – SEPTEMBER 08: Puka Nacua #17 of the Los Angeles Rams is pushed out of bounds by Alex Anzalone #34 of the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on September 08, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Alex Anzalone doesn’t get nearly enough recognition as one of the league’s top linebackers, but after tonight’s performance, that may finally change. As expected, he led the Lions with 13 total tackles and was a constant presence in the backfield, racking up three tackles for loss. Anzalone has become the heart and soul of this defense, consistently delivering standout performances week after week. In this game, his leadership was crucial. Despite the Lions’ defensive struggles, Anzalone held things together, playing a key role in securing the victory. Moving forward, he’ll be instrumental in helping to address the gaps on defense and solidifying the unit as the season progresses.
Dud: Amon-Ra St. Brown
Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown (14) runs for a first down against Los Angeles Rams safety John Johnson III (43) during the first half at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, September 8, 2024.
While Jameson Williams was enjoying a career day, Amon-Ra St. Brown was uncharacteristically quiet, a stark contrast to what fans have come to expect from the Lions’ offense. He finished with just 13 yards on three receptions, as the Rams’ secondary kept him largely in check. The Lions’ offense as a whole struggled to find its rhythm, and this subdued performance from St. Brown isn’t likely to become a trend. However, with the spotlight on, many were hoping the Sun God would put on a show for the national audience. Expect a bounce-back in the weeks to come.
Stud: David Montgomery
Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery (5) celebrates scoring a touchdown against Los Angeles Rams with center Frank Ragnow (77) during overtime at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, September 8, 2024.
When the Lions needed him most, David Montgomery delivered, scoring the game-winning touchdown to seal the victory. He started the game strong, but for much of the contest, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson leaned on Jahmyr Gibbs. However, it was in overtime when Montgomery truly shined, powering through defenders with a series of tough runs in a classic Lions drive. Montgomery consistently runs with a full head of steam, often requiring multiple defenders to bring him down. While the snap counts between him and Gibbs will be interesting to review, Montgomery is proving to be a player who’s hard to keep off the field. His impact in crucial moments speaks volumes about his value to this team.
Dud: Terrion Arnold
Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold (0) walks off the field after practice during OTAs at Detroit Lions headquarters and training facility in Allen Park on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
It was a challenging night for the young rookie Arnold, who struggled against the Rams’ talented receiving corps and Sean McVay’s creative play-calling. Early in the game, Arnold was relatively quiet—a good sign for a cornerback—but things took a turn for the worse as the game progressed. He was flagged twice for pass interference in the end zone, costly penalties that led directly to Rams’ points. Those kinds of mistakes put the defense in tough positions, especially in a tightly contested game where every point mattered. However, this should serve as a valuable learning experience for Arnold, and he’ll likely grow from it and come back stronger in future matchups.