Luke Altmyer was out there slingin’ it in the Detroit Lions’ preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, logging a massive 44 snaps and 67% of the offensive plays. But don’t let those numbers fool you into thinking the backup QB job is locked up. Head coach Dan Campbell threw a curveball after the game, clarifying that Josh Dobbs’ second-quarter reps, which totaled 22 snaps and 33% of the game, were *always* planned to be with the “starting” offensive line. Talk about setting the stage for some serious competition in the Lions’ QB room, especially with Jared Goff getting the night off entirely.
Altmyer’s Fumble, Dobbs’ Chance, and Campbell’s Clue
Altmyer had nearly the entire game in his hands, showcasing a performance that’s gotta make him feel good, even after a fumble. You’d think that might lead to a benching, right? Nope. Campbell made it clear that Dobbs’ entry wasn’t a punishment for Altmyer, but a deliberate move to get the veteran quarterback crucial early reps with the guys who’ll be protecting Goff. This move screams one thing: Detroit wants Dobbs primed and ready to be the primary backup. But Altmyer’s strong showing after that fumble? That’s gotta make the coaches think twice. Can he actually snatch that backup spot from Dobbs? This early season drama is exactly what we live for.
RB Depth Chart Drama Is Heating Up Fast
The running back battle is just as intense. Jacob Saylors started the game, playing 29 snaps (44%) and even getting in on 3 special teams snaps (12%). The dude played extremely well, making a strong case to hold onto that RB4 spot for a second straight season. His main competition, Jabari Small, is still sidelined with what looks like a knee injury, which definitely helps Saylors’ cause. Raheem Blackshear, a recent addition, got some praise from Campbell after playing 16 snaps (24%) and 7 special teams snaps (28%), but he needs to keep stacking those performances. And get this: Sione Vaki, despite not playing due to a nose and eye injury, is essentially locked in as RB3. Campbell went on record praising Vaki as “one of the best special teams players in the league,” and made it crystal clear: “We know those two backs (Jahmyr Gibbs and Isiah Pacheco) at the top and we know what (Sione) Vaki is… So, if that fourth running back is going to make it, he’s going to need to help on special teams.” That’s the blueprint, folks.
Wideouts: One Up, One Down
Over at wide receiver, there’s a couple of storylines bubbling up. Isaac TeSlaa got plenty of reps, with 17 snaps (26%), as the Lions hoped he’d shake off a slow start to training camp. Unfortunately, the source says, that just didn’t happen. You gotta wonder how that impacts his standing. On the flip side, Greg Dortch, Detroit’s WR4, barely played with only 7 snaps (11%) and 1 special teams snap (4%). His limited action further cements his spot, showing the Lions know exactly what they have in him. Other receivers like Dominic Lovett (32 snaps), Tay Martin (30 snaps), and Tom Kennedy (25 snaps) also got significant time on the field. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, as expected, were DNPs.
This preseason opener was a true sneak peek at who’s making moves and who’s got work to do. With the next games on the horizon, we’ll be watching to see if Altmyer can push Dobbs even harder, and if TeSlaa can find his footing. Every snap, every rep, it all matters right now.
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.
Leave a Reply