Ameer Abdullah shines early for Detroit Lions
It didn’t take long for Ameer Abdullah to shine for the Detroit Lions in Sunday’s 33-28 loss to the San Diego Chargers. Entering his first NFL game, there were high hopes for Abdullah, and he delivered right away. On his first NFL carry, Abdullah darted through the San Diego Chargers’ defense, for a 24 yard touchdown run.
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During the preseason, Abdullah displayed his ability to make opposing defenses look silly, but the level of play raises when the real games start. Therefore, the former Nebraska Cornhusker I-back had to prove he belonged on the NFL level. Let’s just say, Ameer Abdullah showed he’s the real deal on the opening drive. There’s a real reason why Nebraska had to find Abdullah’s I-back replacement quickly. Abdullah is a special talent, and NFL defenses have a new problem on their hands.
Abdullah gained 50 yards on seven carries, with the lone first quarter touchdown. He also caught four passes, gaining 44 yards, thanks to a spectacular 36 yard catch and run early in the game. However, the Lions were unable to use Abdullah’s strength as the game wore on. Overall, he had 11 touches, gaining 94 total yards on the offensive end. Averaging 7.1 yards per carry is nothing new to Abdullah, but he needs the ball more to really become a factor.
Ameer Abdullah Touchdown
The Detroit Lions are a passing team, so it will be difficult for Ameer Abdullah to be the workhorse back in their scheme. Yesterday, they only ran the ball 16 times. In addition, the Lions only ran 47 offensive plays in the loss, so getting the ball 11 times isn’t a bad ratio.
Ameer Abdullah also won the kick returning job with the Lions. He gained 105 yards on three Kickoff returns, with a long of 48 yards. Abdullah has truly become an all-purpose weapon for the Lions in week 1.Hopefully he continues to shine for the Detroit Lions next week. He will be facing the Minnesota Vikings defense in a critical NFC North contest.