The Detroit Lions showcased a strong performance in the first of two joint practices against the Miami Dolphins on Wednesday, with the offense standing out prominently. Central to this success was two-time All-Pro receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, who made several key plays that emphasized his importance to the Lions’ offence during the training camp. This session allowed the Lions to test their abilities against a new defensive setup, contrasting with their usual routine of practicing against their own capable defense.
St. Brown Praises Lions’ Defense and Coaching Staff
Amon-Ra St. Brown highlighted the significant role the Lions’ defensive unit played in the offense’s achievements during the practice, crediting new defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard for his impact. The Lions’ defense maintained strong resistance against Miami’s offensive efforts while the offense was in rhythm. St. Brown reflected on the importance of competing against varied defensive schemes, which will prepare the team for facing different opponents throughout the season.
We’ve got a pretty good defense, a tough defense. Going up against them every day is tough,
St. Brown said.
We’re going up against the same team, they’re getting used to our concepts and how we do things. It’s pretty much the same team we’ve had the last few years, Shep’s dialing it up. To go against a different defense, it’s refreshing, it’s something new. We’re gonna be going against different guys all year, so we need to get used to it now. It’s always fun to go against different guys, compete, see defenses we haven’t seen. It’s fun.
—Amon-Ra St. Brown, Receiver
Offensive Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Despite a mostly strong showing, the Lions experienced some challenges during the practice, including pre-snap penalties such as false starts and illegal motion, along with a couple of fumbles. Nevertheless, the passing game operated efficiently, highlighted by standout catches from St. Brown. Running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery also contributed well with solid runs. While the overall offensive display was encouraging, the team recognizes that there are still areas needing refinement.
Any time you’re executing, you’re catching balls, your run game’s going, you’re protecting the quarterback, and you’re scoring touchdowns and getting first downs, it always looks good,
St. Brown explained.
So we haven’t watched the tape yet, but from what I saw out here, it looked pretty solid for us as an offense. There’s always going to be things that we need to clean up. But every day we want to get better. We want to keep getting better. That’s the goal. You also want to keep getting better until the end of the season. So as long as we can keep improving, that’s the biggest thing.
—Amon-Ra St. Brown, Receiver
Looking Ahead to the Second Practice
The Lions will have an opportunity to confirm their progress in a second joint practice against the Dolphins on Thursday. The team’s promising display on Wednesday sets a hopeful tone as Detroit continues to prepare for the regular season. Their ability to adapt, improve, and maintain strong performances against varied defensive teams will be crucial factors moving forward in camp.