Lions' Week 7 Defensive Grades: Flowers, Davis, Okwara Thriving

The Detroit Lions' defense has now put together solid performances in consecutive weeks.

Despite possessing an explosive offense, the Atlanta Falcons were unable to capitalize on many big plays.

Detroit's defensive line has started to gel, and the play of Trey Flowers has been highly instrumental in the team's three victories this season.

Here are the grades for the Lions' defense after the team's Week 7 contest with Atlanta.

Defensive line: A

Romeo Okwara and Flowers spend plenty of time together talking football at the Allen Park practice facility, according to Lions head coach Matt Patricia.

Their play was solid all afternoon, and the Falcons were never able to get their running game going with Todd Gurley.

Okwara's strip-sack and Flowers' subsequent recovery aided Detroit in the fourth quarter in a close contest.

Linebackers: B

Despite his limited role, Jarrad Davis has been productive while rushing the opposing quarterback the past few weeks.

Reggie Ragland continues to prove the coaching staff correct for increasing his playing time, as he was a disruptive force against Atlanta's offense.

Jamie Collins recorded six tackles on Sunday, and contributed in the efforts to limit the Falcons' rushing attack.

Secondary: B+

It was going to be a challenge to completely limit Atlanta's talented wide receivers.

But, give Detroit's secondary credit.

Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley did not take over the game, and neither receiver racked up over 100 yards on the afternoon.

Darryl Roberts quietly secured six tackles, and Jeff Okudah continues to improve steadily with each performance.

Special teams: B+

Punter Jack Fox averaged 52.3 net yards per punt attempt, and even launched a 67-yard punt for a touchback.

Matt Prater had successful field-goal attempts from 50, 51 and 49 yards.

He secured the victory for Detroit when he connected on a 48-yard extra-point attempt.

He deserves a pass for the one attempt missed from 46 yards.

More from SI All Lions:

Lions Week 7 Offensive Grades: Stafford Makes Falcons Pay

Adrian Peterson's Yards Per Carry Average Has Plummeted

Matthew Stafford Explains Final Play

Unsung Hero: Romeo Okwara 'Wants to Be Great'

Report: D'Andre Swift to Have 'Expanded Role' against Falcons

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