Lions OC: Calvin Johnson's four targets in Week 1 an anomaly

Johnson will be a big part of the offense this season, offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi promised.

Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi has received a good amount of criticism for his playcalling after the Lions blew a 21-3 lead in their 33-28 loss on Sunday to the San Diego Chargers.

Star wide receiver Calvin Johnson notably recorded just two catches on four targets in the loss. 

But Lombardi said the circumstances of the game dictated Johnson's reduced role, and that the receiver will normally be a focal point of the offense. 

“We certainly had plays that he’s the primary, and for whatever reason, the situation didn’t work out where he was the guy to throw to,” Lombardi said, according to the Detroit Free Press. 

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Added Lombardi: “He’s going to certainly get his touches this year, and I think that was an anomaly that we had this first game.”

Johnson caught 71 passes for 1,077 yards and eight touchdowns last season. 

The Lions will face the Minnesota Vikings on the road on Sunday.