Ahmed Hassanein just dropped a ridiculous 16.7 pass-rush productivity score in the Detroit Lions’ preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, and if that number isn’t tattooed on your brain yet, it needs to be. This dude came back to the football field and immediately became a defensive wrecking ball, making everyone wonder how he’s going to keep this up through the coming weeks.
Hassanein Is a Human Highlight Reel, And It’s Just The Start
Yeah, it was a wet and sloppy game out in Ohio, but some plays cut through the muck like a laser, and every single one of Ahmed Hassanein’s defensive snaps felt like that. After a long road back, the second-year edge rusher didn’t just show up; he straight up dominated. Head Coach Dan Campbell might have talked this sack into existence, but Hassanein was the one out there stunting, driving, and making Joe Burrow’s life miserable. We’re talking five total pressures on just 21 pass-rushing snaps! This guy didn’t just get to the QB once; he tore through for 2.0 sacks, absolutely wrecking Burrow’s day and snatching a forced fumble in the process. Pro Football Focus numbers don’t lie, and his 16.7 pass-rush productivity is the second-highest score among 117 qualifying defenders who took at least nine pass-rushing snaps through the first seven games of preseason. That’s elite, full stop.
Cornerbacks Step Up Big in Run Defense
Being a cornerback for these Lions isn’t for the faint of heart; they put some serious weight on those guys’ shoulders, especially when it comes to stuffing the run. But two guys absolutely balled out against the Bengals, earning some seriously impressive grades. Roger McCreary, who’s reportedly had a quiet camp despite the nickel corner expectations, delivered an 82.1 run-defense grade. He also posted a 12.5% run-stop rate, which was tied for the third-best among 79 qualifying cornerbacks who took at least five run-defense snaps. That’s huge for a guy everyone was wondering about. Not to be outdone, rookie Keith Abney flashed his own skills with an 81.9 run-defense grade. What’s even crazier? McCreary also locked things down in coverage, earning an 86.3 grade by allowing zero completions on two targets. If McCreary keeps bringing that kind of heat in run defense and keeps his coverage tight, he’s going to make a lot of noise.
This early preseason action is always a mixed bag, but when you see individual performances like Hassanein’s relentless pass-rush and McCreary’s shutdown run defense, it gives you a lot to look forward to. Keep your eyes peeled as we head into the next few weeks; these guys are just getting started.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pride of Detroit.
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