The Detroit Lions are entering a new offensive era, but Week 1 showed just how rough the transition might be. What fans hope is simply a bad day at the office could just as easily be the start of deeper issues for one of the NFC’s strongest teams.
Detroit’s 27-13 loss to the Green Bay Packers was the first real reminder of how much Ben Johnson meant to this franchise. Johnson’s offensive system was creative, polished, and tailored to maximize Detroit’s playmakers. In his debut season as the Chicago Bears’ head coach, his absence was felt immediately in Detroit.
Outside of a meaningless late touchdown, the Lions were stuck on six points for nearly the entire contest. Now working with a new identity under offensive coordinator John Morton, the team must find a way to rediscover its rhythm without the architect who made them so explosive. Whether Johnson finds success in Chicago or not, it’s already obvious the Lions will miss him.
Detroit’s Offense Stumbles Without Johnson
The struggles in Week 1 were glaring. Jared Goff looked more like the quarterback the Los Angeles Rams once gave up on than the confident passer Detroit fans have seen in recent seasons. His final stat line — 225 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and four sacks — didn’t tell the whole story.
This unit lacked the sharpness and fluidity it once had. Jahmyr Gibbs was heavily involved, catching 10 passes but totaling just 50 yards. Tight end Sam LaPorta led all receivers with 79 yards, and Isaac TeSlaa hauled in the lone touchdown. Despite some bright spots, the overall offense looked disjointed, a clear sign of how tough Morton’s job will be.
Can Morton Unlock Jared Goff the Way Johnson Did?
Johnson managed to elevate Goff into one of the NFC’s most efficient quarterbacks. Morton’s challenge is replicating that formula. Against Green Bay, Goff showed flashes of competence, but the offense frequently stalled. The interception was a mistake, but the real issue was the lack of rhythm and execution compared to past seasons.
The question isn’t whether the Lions have the talent — they do. The real test is whether Morton can bring cohesion back to this group. Week 1 can’t become the standard if Detroit expects to compete.
Week 1 Must Be the Exception, Not the Rule
The Lions still boast one of the more dangerous rosters in the NFC North, but the division isn’t forgiving. Green Bay’s defense, now bolstered by Micah Parsons, made life difficult, and more challenges are ahead. Morton has to quickly diagnose the issues and prevent a repeat performance.
Detroit’s championship window is open right now, and they can’t afford to waste it. There are positives to build on, but consistency must be the priority. If Morton can smooth out the rough edges, the Lions will remain a contender. If not, their season could unravel fast.
