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Lions’ Rising Stars Bates, Vaki, and Hooker Shine in Thrilling 24-23 Pre-Season Win

Photo: Denny Medley ~ USA TODAY Sports

DETROIT, August 19, 2024 ~ The Detroit Lions eked out a thrilling 24-23 pre-season victory against the Kansas City Chiefs Saturday, capped by a clutch 43-yard Jake Bates field goal as time expired. Bates however wasn’t the only standout performer.

I tell you what, Sione Vaki … man … this dude is jumping off the film,” said Lomas Brown, WJRSportsWrap” host and Detroit Lions color analyst. 

Every time he’s given the opportunity, either in the passing game or the running game, he’s been doing a nice job … it’s so refreshing to see a young guy, a rookie, come in and make some of the impact plays he makes.”


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Aug. 19, 2024 ~ The Detroit Lions beat the Kansas City Chiefs in their second preseason game, behind the standout performances of quarterback Hendon Hooker and kicker Jake Bates. Guy, Lloyd, and Jamie talk with Detroit Lions Radio Network analyst Lomas Brown about his favorite players from training camp and the game-winning kick by Bates.


(CONTINUED) Lomas also offered praise for the performances of Isaiah Williams, who is a contender for the fourth wide receiver slot, kicker Jake Bates, who made two kicks from over 50 yard plus the game winning field goal, and quarterback Hendon Hooker, who demonstrated quick decision-making to pass for 150 yards and rush for a touchdown.

Primary focus continues to be given to the Lions’ secondary, as the team works to turn around their 27th overall ranking in defending against the pass in 2024.

MORE: Terrion Arnold Acquisition Signals Surge at Secondary for Lions

They still need to find the opposite defensive end of Aiden Hutchenson,” said Lomas. “If you think about the receivers that we have to go up against this year … the more you can get a pass rush on these quarterbacks … the less time these cornerbacks have to cover these great receivers.”

The Lions face the Pittsburg Steelers this Saturday, August 24 at Ford Field in their third and final preseason game, followed by the season opener against Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams at Ford Field on September 8.


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