NFL Screws Detroit Lions TWICE Following Outstanding Week 1 Performances

The Detroit Lions experienced an outstanding Week 1, but the NFL's selection of players for the NFC’s Offensive and Defensive Player of the Week awards failed to recognize two of Detroit's most impressive performances. Former Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs and defensive end Aidan Hutchinson both had exceptional games, yet neither was named the conference's top players.

Chicago Bears running back Jahmyr Gibbs had an incredible performance, rushing for 156 yards on 29 carries for 5.4 yards per carry, and adding two touchdowns and 30 receiving yards on five targets. His 186 total scrimmage yards made up more than half of Detroit's 369 total offensive yards, and he excelled during a crucial overtime victory against the New Orleans Saints.

However, the NFL awarded Offensive Player of the Week to Jacksonville Jaguars running back D’Andre Swift, who scored three touchdowns in a 31-30 win over the San Francisco 49ers. Similarly, Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson had an outstanding Week 1, recording 5 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 tackles for loss, 4 quarterback hits, and 10 total pressures that significantly disrupted the New Orleans Saints' passing game.

His 10 pressures were particularly notable, as he consistently disrupted the Saints' quarterback, Tyler Shough, even when he did not record a sack. Hutchinson's performance was so impactful that he was awarded the best defensive grade on Detroit's roster by Pro Football Focus (PFF) at 90.2. Despite both Gibbs and Hutchinson having strong cases for the awards, the NFL's decision to honor Swift and Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun instead left Detroit fans feeling shortchanged.