Lions Aiming to Get Run Game Back on Track: A Focus on Improvement

The Detroit Lions have been a team in transition over the past few seasons, with new coaching philosophies and a focus on rebuilding their roster. While they’ve made significant strides, there remains one key area where the Lions are looking to improve: their running game. A solid run game is often a cornerstone of a successful offense, and the Lions are aiming to reestablish this aspect of their attack as they move forward in the 2024 season.

The Importance of a Strong Run Game

A productive running game offers numerous benefits to a football team. It controls the clock, keeps opposing defenses honest, and opens up the passing game. By establishing a dominant ground attack, the Lions can set the tone for their offense, giving quarterback Jared Goff more opportunities to succeed in play-action passes. It’s also vital for the success of their offensive line, ensuring that it’s not just a pass-blocking unit, but one that can create lanes for running backs and wear down the defense throughout the game.

While the passing game has been the highlight of the Lions’ offensive success in recent seasons, a lackluster run game has been a significant hurdle. Head coach Dan Campbell and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson are determined to balance their offense and ensure that they can keep defenses guessing by mixing in more rushing attempts. To do this, the Lions are focusing on multiple aspects of their offensive philosophy, from personnel decisions to play-calling and adjustments in game situations.

Recent Struggles in the Run Game

Despite some bright moments in 2023, the Lions’ run game has struggled to maintain consistency. In 2023, the team finished with just 21st in total rushing yards per game, averaging only 108.3 yards on the ground. While they had flashes of dominance in certain games, the inability to sustain drives through the run game has forced them into situations where the passing attack was relied upon too heavily.

Several factors have contributed to this inconsistency. Injuries to key players, such as the offensive line, have prevented the Lions from establishing a steady rhythm. Additionally, a lack of depth in the backfield has been an issue, especially in terms of finding a consistent bell-cow back to take over in crunch time. While the Lions have had capable backs like David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, neither has emerged as a dominant force over an extended period.

The offensive line, which has been one of the team’s strengths in recent years, has also shown signs of vulnerability in the running game. Although they are excellent pass protectors, their ability to open up holes for the running backs has been inconsistent. When run-blocking assignments break down or defensive fronts overwhelm the line of scrimmage, it leaves the backs with little room to work.

Key Areas for Improvement

As the Lions look to revitalize their run game in 2024, there are several key areas they are focused on improving.

1. Offensive Line Play

The success of the running game starts up front. The Lions’ offensive line, led by Pro Bowlers like Frank Ragnow and Penei Sewell, is one of the most talented in the NFL, but they’ve occasionally faltered in run-blocking situations. The Lions will need to be more physical at the line of scrimmage and create more push in the running game. With players like Sewell, who has an incredible combination of size and athleticism, the Lions have the potential to dominate in the trenches when executing run plays.

One specific focus for the Lions will be on improving their zone-blocking schemes, ensuring that they can open cutback lanes for their running backs. As defensive lines evolve to be quicker and more disruptive, the Lions must adapt by using a more varied blocking approach that accounts for different defensive fronts and situations.

2. Running Back Depth and Health

Another major factor in the Lions’ run game struggles has been a lack of consistency in the backfield. While Montgomery and Gibbs have shown flashes of brilliance, both players have dealt with injuries, and the team has struggled to find reliable depth behind them. Gibbs, known for his explosive speed and versatility, has shown promise as both a runner and a pass-catcher, but he needs to stay healthy and develop a more consistent rhythm. Montgomery, a power back with excellent vision, has the potential to be the workhorse the Lions need, but his ability to stay healthy is crucial for the team’s success.

The Lions also need to develop their backup running backs to ensure that they have reliable options in case of injury. Without depth, the team is vulnerable to losing their ability to sustain drives through the run game. Players like Craig Reynolds and Benny Snell could be key to stepping up in backup roles, providing support to the starting backs.

3. Play-Calling and Game Management

Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will play a pivotal role in improving the Lions’ running attack. Known for his creativity in the passing game, Johnson now needs to implement a balanced offensive game plan that includes a more consistent and aggressive approach to the run game. This could include better game flow management, ensuring that the Lions aren’t abandoning the run too quickly when trailing in games.

Additionally, Johnson will need to adjust his play-calling based on the situation. He’ll need to find ways to use the running game to set up favorable down-and-distance situations, opening up opportunities for play-action passes. This balance will be key in taking pressure off Goff and giving him a more manageable pocket to work with.

4. Utilizing the Fullback and Tight End

The Lions have strong tight ends in Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright, and they can use these players in the blocking game to enhance their run schemes. Using two-tight-end sets or bringing in a fullback for additional blocking can help control the line of scrimmage and create more running lanes for the backs. The versatility of these players could be a difference-maker when it comes to the Lions’ ability to sustain drives and establish a physical identity.

5. Consistency in the Red Zone

The Lions have struggled to convert in the red zone, where they often become too predictable with their passing game. By making a more concerted effort to mix in the run game near the goal line, they can create a more balanced attack and reduce the pressure on Goff. Whether it’s Montgomery powering through the middle or Gibbs using his speed to get to the edge, a consistent red-zone running game could make a big difference in the Lions’ ability to score touchdowns and not settle for field goals.

Looking Ahead: The Path Forward

The Lions have the pieces in place to improve their run game, but it will take time, effort, and a cohesive approach from the entire offense. They will need a combination of better offensive line play, running back health and consistency, smart play-calling, and a more balanced game plan to succeed. If the Lions can get their run game back on track, they will not only improve their offensive efficiency, but they will also gain the ability to dictate tempo and keep opposing defenses off balance.

Ultimately, for the Lions to take the next step as a contender in the NFC, improving the run game will be a vital component of their evolution. With the right adjustments and a more concerted focus on the running attack, the Lions could become one of the most well-rounded teams in the league, capable of controlling the clock, wearing down defenses, and setting up their explosive passing game for even greater success.