Key Insights from Detroit Lions’ Top Coordinators: Morton, Sheppard, Fipp
The Detroit Lions are entering the final stretch of the NFL season with critical insights from their top coordinators, including special teams coach Dave Fipp, defensive coordinator Aaron Sheppard, and offensive coordinator Antwaan Morton. These coordinators are focused on improving player performance as the team looks to end the season on a high note.
Key Insights from Detroit Lions’ Top Coordinators
Kicking Performance and Confidence in Jake Bates
Jake Bates, the Lions’ kicker, has faced challenges this season. After achieving a remarkable field goal percentage last year of 26 out of 29 attempts, he has struggled this year with only 21 successful kicks out of 27 attempts. Despite these setbacks, Coach Fipp remains optimistic.
- Fipp states, “I’m not worried about him at all.”
- Bates holds a high success rate in practice, reportedly in the 90 percent range.
- Fipp praises Bates as one of the best kickers he has encountered in his 18 years of coaching.
Defensive Expectations for Alim McNeill
Veteran defensive lineman Alim McNeill has returned from a torn ACL but has not yet regained his full impact. Coach Sheppard acknowledges McNeill’s understanding of his underperformance and expects improvement in the upcoming games.
- Sheppard expressed confidence, stating, “I have all the faith in the world in Alim.”
- The coach anticipates McNeill stepping up his game to reclaim his impactful role on the defense.
Revamping the Run Game
The Lions struggled with their rushing game in a recent contest against the Rams, accumulating only 70 rushing yards. To improve this statistic, Coach Morton emphasizes the need for explosive play from the offensive line.
- Morton is focusing on enhancing the run scheme.
- The goal is to regain control and physicality in the Lions’ offense.
As the season progresses, the Lions must leverage these insights from their coordinators to fortify team performance and solidify their standing in the competitive NFL landscape.
