Detroit Lions Week 8 best bet: Sam LaPorta finds groove

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta has had a slow start to the 2024 season.

After a historic rookie year in which he set the NFL record for receptions by a rookie tight end, LaPorta has totaled just 14 catches in the team’s first six games.

However, Sunday will be the first of two straight games in which the Lions will be without suspension Jameson Williams. As a result, more targets could become available.

Ahead of Sunday’s game against the Tennessee Titans, PlayiLottery’s head writer Drew Ellis notified LaPorta about receiving yards. The total currently stands at 32.5 (-113).

“It’s no secret that Sam LaPorta is not having the season many expected him to have,” Ellis told Lions OnSI. “Coming off one of the best rookie seasons in the NFL, LaPorta hasn’t found his stride in Detroit’s offense in 2024. That’s partly because the Lions have a balanced offense with so many weapons. Each player has been given a turn to shine and I think Sunday will be LaPorta’s time. With Jameson Williams suspended, the offense looks more like what we saw last season when LaPorta was a top target.”

Key matchup: Tennessee’s defense vs. Jared Goff

LaPorta has seen glimpses of success, such as his 52-yard touchdown catch against Dallas in Week 6. While the targets haven’t been as plentiful so far in the season, he still remains a focal point of the offense that can come at any time strike .

“Against a physical Tennessee defense, I expect the Lions to have to produce long and steady drives to score. That’s where LaPorta can shine,” Ellis wrote. “The Titans gave up 52 yards to Buffalo tight end Dalton Kincaid, so they could be susceptible to an athletic tight end. With LaPorta’s production thus far relatively low, oddsmakers are setting the bar low for him on Sunday.”

The game odds are updated periodically and are subject to change.

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