The Detroit Lions’ defense had a challenging game against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday, allowing big plays for most of the night. Despite being outmatched for much of the contest, the Lions’ defense made crucial contributions that helped secure a 40-34 victory. Although the defense didn’t force a punt, they managed to turn the game in their favor with two key interceptions from Kerby Joseph and a pair of missed field goals from the 49ers.
Amik Robertson, a defensive back who stepped up as an outside cornerback due to Carlton Davis’ injury, played a pivotal role in the Lions’ defensive effort. Robertson made an important play by punching the ball out from Jauan Jennings, which helped the Lions run down the clock at the end of the first half. In the fourth quarter, he also had a significant pass breakup that forced the 49ers to settle for a field goal.
Robertson’s performance stood out in a game where many of the Lions’ defenders struggled. He ended the game as Detroit’s highest-graded defensive player according to Pro Football Focus (PFF), earning an impressive 82.1 overall defensive grade. He also earned a solid 82.9 grade for his coverage skills, demonstrating his effectiveness in both man and zone coverage situations.
Before the game, Robertson spoke about his mentality and how he feels he fits well with the Lions. “You’ve got to have that dog mentality,” Robertson said. “A lot of guys here have that mentality, and that’s why I feel like I fit so good here, and that’s why I wanted to be here.” He also emphasized his love for 1-on-1 matchups, saying he thrives under pressure and wants to increase his number of tackles for loss (TFLs).
The highest PFF grades on offense were dominated by key players like quarterback Jared Goff, who received an 87.7 grade, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who earned an 86.7 grade. Tight end Sam LaPorta and guard Graham Glasgow also posted solid performances with grades of 79.8 and 78.8, respectively. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown rounded out the top five offensive players with a grade of 78.0.
On the defensive side, Robertson led the way with his 82.1 grade. Defensive tackle Pat O’Connor earned a strong 78.0 grade, and free safety Kerby Joseph contributed with a 76.6 grade. Defensive end Za’Darius Smith and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu also made solid contributions, receiving grades of 64.2 and 64.0, respectively.
However, not all of Detroit’s defensive players performed well. The lowest PFF grades came from defensive tackle DJ Reader (51.3), linebacker Trevor Nowaske (46.5), and linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin (42.6). Linebacker Ben Niemann and defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad also struggled, with grades of 39.0 and 37.7, respectively. Despite these struggles, the Lions’ defense was able to make enough key plays to secure the victory.