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Over the years, more and more starters have been sitting in NFL preseason games for health reasons. So, that gives more opportunity for younger, unproven guys to win spots on the roster. In their first game, the Lions lost to the Falcons 27-23, while the Colts lost to the Bills 27-24.
It was a tough loss for the Lions as they looked like they had the game in their hands, before Desmond Ridder tossed one up to the end zone where former lacrosse star Jared Bernhardt came down with the game-winning touchdown. The Lions didn't have anybody standout too much offensively, but the starters looked good.
Although the Colts lost, Sam Ehlinger played extremely well. He was 10-11 with 88 yards and two touchdowns. He is competing with Nick Foles for the backup quarterback spot. Jonathan Taylor was the only big-time starter to not play for the Colts.
Detroit Lions
Watching for what will happen with the Lions receivers. It’s seemed that’s a position they have improved a ton, but there is a tough battle for some of the last spots on the roster. Quintet Cephus looked great in camp before suffering a leg injury which has kept him out. Another player to watch is Kalif Raymond who has been turning heads at camp. With Jameson Williams out, there are some chances for receivers to get on the field early on this season.
Which Lions will play, expected inactives
It doesn’t look like we can expect any of the main offensive starters go for the Lions today.
QB Jared Goff on the field getting some work in pregame with TE T.J. Hockenson, WR DJ Chark, RB D'Andre Swift, RB Jamaal Williams, WR Josh Reynolds and WR Amon-Ra St. Brown. I don't expect to see any of them playing today against Colts.
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) August 20, 2022
Indianapolis Colts
Alec Pierce is the big name that people are watching at camp for the Colts. The rookie receiver is currently listed as a starter on the depth chart and will stay there if he continues to impress. At 6-foot-4, Pierce runs a 4.3 40-yard dash. He’s shown smoothness at camp and he has the ability to be a big target for Matt Ryan this season.
Which Colts will play, expected inactives
Looks like Colts throwing in a few regular starters on offense to begin the game:
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) August 20, 2022
Parris Campbell
Alec Pierce
Danny Pinter (at center, not right guard)
Matt Pryor (the more live reps at LT, the better)
Colts will sit most of their starters for Saturday’s game against Detroit. Maybe one or two exceptions, per Frank Reich.
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) August 18, 2022