By Moses Joshua 
Despite a 52-point outburst, Detroit’s staff still faces questions about consistency and depth
The Detroit Lions responded in emphatic fashion after their disappointing season opener, torching the Chicago Bears 52-21 on Sunday. It was the kind of performance that reminded fans of last year’s powerhouse offense, but behind the fireworks, some national analysts caution that not everything is settled in Detroit.
A Statement Win With Lingering Questions
Quarterback Jared Goff was nearly flawless, throwing for 334 yards and five touchdowns, three of them to star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. The ground game also roared to life, with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery each punching in rushing scores. For stretches, the Lions looked every bit like the 15-2 juggernaut from a year ago.
But ESPN’s Dan Graziano pointed out that the victory doesn’t erase all concerns. He noted that Detroit’s revamped staff and retooled roster still need to prove themselves over the long haul.
“We have one bad and one good, so let’s see some more good before we assume all is well, right?” Graziano wrote. “I’m not necessarily as worried about John Morton’s ability to replace Johnson as offensive coordinator as I am about the interior of the Lions’ offensive line following the surprise offseason retirement of longtime center Frank Ragnow. It was the issues up front that were most worrisome in Week 1, and I think we need to see the reconfigured line in action for a few weeks before we decide whether it’s going to be able to hold up.”
High Expectations in Detroit
The Lions’ resurgence has set a lofty standard. Coming off last season’s bitter playoff exit, the franchise is no longer measured by modest goals — it’s Super Bowl or bust. Graziano reminded readers of just how high the bar now sits.
“And remember, when we say ‘just fine’ about the Lions, we’re talking about Super Bowl contender fine. The standards are high in Detroit,” he wrote. “The Lions could still be a very good team and not be the same kind of wagon they were on offense this past season. They also could still be elite on offense. I just don’t think we have enough evidence either way, and the interior offensive line questions leave some room to wonder.”
Campbell Praises the Offensive Line
While analysts may see reason for concern, Dan Campbell voiced nothing but confidence in his linemen after Sunday’s win. The head coach credited the group for dictating the pace of the game and creating opportunities across the offense.
“Well, look, it always starts with the O-line here,” Campbell said via SI.com. “It does and I would say probably most teams, and for sure us. When they play well, it really allows us to do a lot. It allows us to do a lot and that’s a prideful unit. There again, we had a couple of young guys in there that I thought played better, and they’re only going to get better the more reps they get. So, that was good to see.”
For now, the Lions’ line appears to be trending upward, but the spotlight will remain on how consistently it can perform against tougher opponents in the weeks to come.
The Bottom Line
Sunday’s blowout proved the Lions still have the firepower to overwhelm opponents, but consistency and durability will define whether this team takes the next step. With expectations in Detroit at an all-time high, Dan Campbell’s coaching staff must navigate the season carefully. Analysts see plenty of promise — but also plenty of pressure.