The Detroit Lions were the NFL’s highest-scoring offense and accumulated the most yards per game through the first four weeks of the season.
But after a historically substandard performance in Foxboro, they will certainly slide down the list.
The Lions entered the game against the Patriots averaging 35 points per game. They put up a goose egg Sunday afternoon, losing 29-0.
The Lions went 4-for-12 on third down Sunday but it was their fourth down stat that made NFL history. The Lions went 0-for-6 on fourth down, the most failed fourth down attempts without a conversion in a single game in NFL history.
The previous record was held by the Patriots, ironically, who went 0-for-5 in a game against the Denver Broncos in 1995.
The Patriots’ defense did allow 312 yards on the day, but forced two turnovers, a Jared Goff interception, and a Kyle Dugger scoop and score caused by a Matt Judon strip sack.
Matthew Judon #9 of the New England Patriots sacks Jared Goff #16 of the Detroit Lions. Getty Images
Lions head coach Dan Campbell says this is as bad as it gets, but it can only go up from here he hopes.
The Patriots started third-string quarterback Bailey Zappe with Mac Jones still out with a high ankle sprain and Brian Hoyer with a concussion. Zappe played well in his first start, going 17-for-21 for 188 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Zappe’s favorite target on the day was Jakobi Meyers, who caught seven passes for 111 yards and a touchdown.
The Patriots were also able to impose their will on the ground, with second-year running back Rhamondre Stevenson picking up 161 yards on 25 carries.