7 Takeaways from Lions' 21-16 Victory against Giants

The Lions win their 2023 preseason opener.

The first preseason game of the 2023 season provided supporters with their first glimpse of a Detroit Lions team that has been the talk of the NFL world. 

Fans flocked to Ford Field to take in a preseason contest against the New York Giants, which were also in town for two joint practices this week. 

Here are several takeaways from the Lions' 21-16 preseason victory against the Giants. 

Nate Sudfeld has rocky performance, throws multiple interceptions

The signing of Teddy Bridgewater could have not come at a better time. Nate Sudfeld struggled mightily in his first start of the preseason, tossing two first-half interceptions. 

Detroit's backup quarterback did not have the best start, as his first pass was intercepted. He forced a pass into double coverage attempting to find Jameson Williams. 

In Detroit's second series, Dan Campbell decided to go for it on fourth-and-1, maintaining his history of being aggressive. Unfortunately, a toss to rookie tight end Sam LaPorta fell incomplete. 

Sudfeld again tossed an interception attempting to target Williams, this time being intercepted by safety Dane Belton. 

The Giants took advantage quickly, extending their lead to 13-3 on the next play. On the play, quarterback Tommy DeVito connected with Tommy Sweeney for a 14-yard touchdown. 

In a highly competitive environment at Lions camp, it is hard to see the 29-year-old remaining with the team all that much longer. He has not performed at a high level the past several training camp practices, including experiencing a practice with three interceptions. 

Late in the half, Sudfeld led the offense into the red zone, but could not generate any points. If Sudfeld had a better toss on fourth-and-goal to Dylan Drummond, the talented rookie would have had an easy score. 

Jameson Williams has early drop, has no chemistry with Sudfeld 

It was clear that Ben Johnson and the coaching staff made Williams a focal point early. 

In the third series, Williams and Sudfeld were not on the same page, as a deep pass sailed incomplete with no receiver in sight. 

Later, Williams was able to gain plenty of separation against rookie Deonte Banks. Yet, he could not secure the Sudfeld toss, despite it hitting him directly in his hands.

The drive did net points, though. Detroit scored its first points of the game when Riley Patterson made a 39-yard field goal. This cut the Giants' lead to 6-3 late in the first quarter. 

The 2022 No. 12 overall pick was able to haul in a Sudfeld pass on a solid route, to convert a two-point try. 

2023 rookies impress

As expected, based on its play throughout camp, Detroit's 2023 rookie draft class did not appear overwhelmed by its first NFL action. 

Jahmyr Gibbs finished with six carries for 19 yards and one reception for 18 yards, showcasing his speed and elusiveness. 

Brian Branch, who surprisingly fell in the draft, showcased his awareness and tackling prowess quickly. The ex-Crimson Tide defensive back recognized a quick swing pass from quarterback Tyrod Taylor. Branch quickly closed in on wideout Cole Beasley, recording a tackle for loss. 

Jack Campbell also found himself in position to record multiple tackles in the first half, showcasing why the Lions decided to invest a first-round draft selection in a linebacker. 

Earning a spot as starter! All training camp #32
Video: @Lions pic.twitter.com/4KbnvZOJjH

— DetroitSportsPodcast (@DetroitPodcast) August 11, 2023

Maurice Alexander has highlight-reel return

With Justin Jackson abruptly retiring, an opportunity opened up for a kick returner to make a statement. 

Alexander, who has had a solid camp, recorded a punt return of 95 yards for a touchdown, showcasing elusiveness and speed. He used multiple spin moves to elude defenders on his way into the end zone. 

A successful two-point conversion toss from Sudfeld to Williams cut the Giants' lead to 13-11, early in the second half. 

95 Yards! Ran like the wind pic.twitter.com/oAbugefR7c

— DetroitSportsPodcast (@DetroitPodcast) August 12, 2023

Julian Okwara makes case to be taken off roster bubble

Among the players that were firmly on the bubble, Okwara showcased the potential the coaching staff has been clamoring for all throughout training camp. 

The coaching staff has been clamoring for the 25-year-old to become a consistent force in Aaron Glenn's defense. 

Despite a rough start to training camp, Okwara was able to record three sacks against the Giants. 

With his Week 1 preseason performance, the fourth-year pro made a case to be removed from the bubble watch list, at least for the time being. 

Weather impacts television broadcast

Unfortunately, supporters of the Lions were not able to hear the television broadcast for the entire third quarter. 

As troublesome weather moved in to Metro Detroit, Fox 2 and other local television stations were forced to carry important weather updates. 

The originally scheduled broadcast returned with just under 12:00 remaining, as the entire third quarter was pre-empted with repetitive inclement weather reports. 

Lions' alternate broadcasts should be featured regularly

The alternative broadcast, which featured Lions general manager Brad Holmes, Jalen Rose, Golden Tate and others joining host Peter Schrager, provided a refreshing look at a preseason game. 

It was quite interesting to have Detroit's third-year general manager react live to Williams dropping an easy touchdown.