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Pacheco’s Week 1 status uncertain; Lions turn to Saylors

8/30/2026

44 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Campbell Starts Saylors

Coach Dan Campbell will start Jacob Saylors as backup if running back Isiah Pacheco misses Week 1.
Saylors rushed for 100 yards on 17 carries in the Aug. 29 preseason win over the Colts.
Pacheco entered camp with a sprained knee and back issues, making his Week 1 status uncertain.
Quarterback Josh Dobbs praised Saylors as hard-to-tackle and fast.

Summary

Bates Misses Kicks

Jake Bates missed two extra points and a kickoff that landed short of the designated zone.
The short kickoff gave the Indianapolis Colts possession at Detroit’s 40-yard line, sparking a scoring drive.
Bates also missed an extra point after the Lions’ fourth-quarter touchdown, widening the final margin.
Coach Dan Campbell said special-teams play could influence roster cuts before the 53-man deadline.

History

Historical Context

During the 1994 season, Wayne Fontes led the Detroit Lions to a 9-7 record and a playoff berth, a turnaround that followed a quarterback overhaul and special-teams play. The team’s reliance on kicker Jason Hanson highlighted the importance of reliable kicking. Today, head coach Dan Campbell again emphasizes depth, evaluating backup Jacob Saylors and Jake Bates after a missed extra point against Indianapolis.

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Campbell Starts Saylors

Coach Dan Campbell will start Jacob Saylors as backup if running back Isiah Pacheco misses Week 1.
Saylors rushed for 100 yards on 17 carries in the Aug. 29 preseason win over the Colts.
Pacheco entered camp with a sprained knee and back issues, making his Week 1 status uncertain.
Quarterback Josh Dobbs praised Saylors as hard-to-tackle and fast.

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