Week 17 Studs and Duds: Marvin Jones makes Detroit Lions’ history

Identifying the Detroit Lions studs and duds from their Week 17 game against the Minnesota Vikings, wrapping up the 2020 season.

In the most fitting end to a season ever, the Detroit Lions lost a close one to the Minnesota Vikings 37-35.

This may have been the most complete game that Detroit has played all season, and it could have ended differently if it weren’t for some questionable calls by the officials.

Nevertheless, some players had career days, and others had ones that they’ll hope to forget.

Stud: Romeo Okwara

In what feels like the first time in forever, a Lions defender has recorded double-digit sacks in a season.

Okwara made it clear that he’s ready for a big contract as he prepares for free agency with an easy sack against Vikings’ right tackle Brian O’Neill to get his tenth sack of 2020.

Stud: Marvin Jones

In what could be his last game as a Detroit Lion, Jones decided to have himself a career day.

The veteran receiver hauled in four catches for 107 yards and a touchdown in the first half and began the second half with another 26-yard score.

Not only did he have a great showing, but he got his name in the Lions’ history books as well with the third-most receiving touchdowns (36) in team history.

Dud: Jahlani Tavai

The former second-round pick is not playing as he’ll be in the league next season. Missed tackles have plagued his career and this game was no different. Even when he was able to get his hands on a Vikings player, he was rarely able to bring them down.

He showed flashes of potential as a rookie, but this year has made it clear that Tavai is not a franchise linebacker in Detroit.

Stud: Quintez Cephus

As the only wide receiver under contract going into next season, Cephus provided some much-needed optimism for Detroit.

The fifth-round rookie played in a fairly limited role against Minnesota but was still able to make a spectacular catch in coverage for his second career score. He hasn’t made too big of a splash this season, but it sure looks like he’s ready for a bigger role in 2021.

Dud: Duron Harmon

In what might be the most embarrassing defensive play for Detroit in the 2020 season. Harmon found himself moseying around as backup Vikings receiver Chad Beebe found the endzone.

Beebe easily broke out of a tackle, another Lions defender missed, and Harmon was there, just standing and staring at the young receiver.

While Harmon has had an overall successful tenure in Detroit so far, this play was one that will haunt him.

Dud: Mohamed Sanu

Twice in this game, Sanu found himself in the position to make a big play but couldn’t come up with the ball.

On what could have been one of the best throws of Stafford’s career, Sanu dropped a would-be 52-yard touchdown pass in double coverage. He later dropped another pass that would have moved the sticks for Detroit.