Is it different this year? We still don't know. At least it is up in the air.
The Lions' victory over Washington certainly is encouraging.
A bad team, which the Lions have mostly displayed for more than six decades, would have collapsed in the second half. It would have been another 'Lions' Moment.'
The Lions responded well to several factors working against them Sunday.
The offensive line is the Lions' greatest strength, and both starting guards, Jonah Jackson and Halapoulivaati Vaitai, along with star center, Frank Ragnow, were out.
Also, the Lions' top interceptor from last season, cornerback Amani Oruwariye, missed the game.
Still, it was like a coming-out party in the first half. Aidan Hutchinson dominated with three sacks. Charles Harris stripped the ball from Commanders quarterback Carson Wentz for a safety. D'Andre Swift and Amon-Ra St. Brown performed like Pro Bowlers with big plays galore.
The Lions have come a long way from this time last year. They have genuine playmakers now. The 22-0 halftime lead reflected it.
And when Washington stormed back to start the second half, the Lions exhibited the type of competitive character they have traditionally lacked.
St. Brown and T.J. Hockenson made big-time catches. Jared Goff executed several tough throws. The Lions defense, which remains an obvious weakness, was often scorched in the second half, yet made just enough key plays. Combined with the Commanders' self-destruction, it allowed for an entertaining victory.
Just because the Lions are clearly better, doesn't mean they are good team.
The first road game at Minnesota figures to be a more legitimate gauge. But the Lions have the advantage of the Vikings being on the road Monday night at Philadelphia, which will shorten preparation.
The Lions have sorely lacked electric playmakers in recent seasons. There is a much different dynamic because of St. Brown and Swift. They have been keyed on the first two weeks by opposing defenses. They have nonetheless imposed their will. Hutchinson hobbled noticeably the second half, but the Commanders could not block him one-on-one in the first. Defenses will have to pick Hutch or Harris to double team. It's not a pleasant option either way.
And an underrated factor for the defense has been Malcom Rodriguez. He's a not just a tough kid, but has given the Lions an inside linebacker with speed and excellent pass coverage skills. It's a massive improvement from the struggles of Jarrad Davis, Jahlani Tavai and Derrick Barnes in that realm.
Given that St. Brown was a fourth-round pick, and Rodriguez a sixth, general manager Brad Holmes has shown an early propensity to draft later-rounders who can play significant roles. That is an obvious advancement from the Lions' often-sorry past.
The Lions' coaching has been solid. New offensive coordinator Ben Johnson didn't get much play on 'Hard Knocks,' but the Lions' play design is much better. So are play-calls at tipping points.
Also, the stellar performance by the offensive line under such difficult conditions is a credit to position coach Hank Fraley.
The best part is the crowd enjoyed it. It's been awhile since Ford Field has sizzled like the last two weeks, a really nice development for the Lions' long-suffering faithful.
Aberration or trend? It's difficult to tell exactly.
But, at minimum, it's refreshing and could ultimately prove meaningful.
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