3 Lions Players That Must See Increased Snap Counts
The Detroit Lions head into a crucial Week 6 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, needing a victory to silence a growing number of critics -- both locally and nationally.
In reviewing snap counts of the Lions' roster over the first quarter of the season, one thing becomes inherently clear -- Detroit should be utilizing its most skilled offensive players more often.
Here are three players that should see increased snap counts during the second quarter of the season.
1.) Wide receiver Quintez Cephus
Cephus did not record a single target or pass reception against New Orleans.
In fact, Detroit's 2020 fifth-round pick only played six snaps.
This is a far cry from the 65 percent of offensive snaps Cephus saw in Weeks 1 and 2 while wideout Kenny Golladay was out due to injury.
Against Jacksonville, Cephus has the potential to have a breakout performance, if he is able to see increased snaps and targets.
Detroit Lions wide receiver Quintez Cephus
© Junfu Han via Imagn Content Services, LLC
2.) Running back D'Andre Swift
The Lions were reliant upon the pass against the Saints, after giving up 35 unanswered points.
As a result, Detroit's 2020 second-round pick (with 23 snaps) was utilized significantly more than he was against the Cardinals (six snaps).
In Week 4 against New Orleans, Swift secured 55 all-purpose yards and one touchdown.
With each passing week, Swift must be incorporated more in Detroit's offense, especially in the red zone.
Having veteran back Adrian Peterson is a nice complement, but it is time to feature Swift more as the season progresses.
Detroit Lions running back D'Andre Swift
© Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
3.) Wide receiver Marvin Hall
Hall has simply made plays when he has been given the opportunity.
According to PFF, since 2019 (min. 15 targets), Hall has earned a receiving grade of 85.2 (11th of 166 WRs), while averaging 34.6 yards/reception (No. 1 by 10 yards).
Getting on the field has been a challenge, since Detroit features a trio of experienced and talented wideouts in Golladay, Marvin Jones Jr. and Danny Amendola.
The deep-ball threat saw just five snaps against the Saints.
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