By Blessing 
Let’s be clear — there’s no need for Lions fans to hit the panic button after a rough start in the preseason opener. Detroit didn’t trot out any key starters and, honestly, the goal was just to come out of the Hall of Fame Game healthy and focused on Week 1.
Considering how deep last season went and the extra week of prep needed for this early preseason matchup, resting core players made total sense. That said, there was a major takeaway from the loss — and it can’t be ignored. Jared Goff is still the engine of this team and their shot at a Super Bowl hinges on his health and performance.
But here’s the issue: the Lions don’t have a reliable option behind him.
Hendon Hooker got some snaps late in the game, and it quickly became clear that the moment was too big for him. He looked like he was trying to out-athlete everyone on the field — yet couldn’t keep up with defenders who likely won’t make the Chargers’ final roster. He didn’t inspire much confidence as a potential backup.
And if that wasn’t rough enough, Kyle Allen’s outing was even worse. Two ugly picks and a general sense that he just wasn’t ready. Yes, it’s preseason, but both quarterbacks showed nothing to suggest they’re ready if Goff ever misses time.
That’s why it’s time for Detroit to seriously consider a move: sign Carson Wentz.
Wentz isn’t the MVP-caliber guy he once was in Philly, but he’s still lightyears ahead of what we’ve seen from Allen and Hooker. If Goff were to miss a game or two, Wentz has enough skill and experience to keep the offense steady and run Ben Johnson’s system with competence.
“No matter what you think of the former starter, one cannot reasonably argue that he isn’t an incredible upgrade.”
Wentz may not be the long-term answer, but he’s exactly the kind of stopgap you want behind your starter — capable, proven, and looking for redemption with a contender. Rolling with Allen and Hooker feels like a gamble the Lions can’t afford.
If Detroit is serious about chasing a Super Bowl this year, they need to secure an insurance policy now — before it’s too late.