“Be careful what you wish for” is the best way to describe the Detroit Lions-Cleveland Browns game. Because Lions fans got it and then some in the first NFL start for Tim Boyle. 

The result? A 13-10 loss to the Browns, in a performance he’ll want to forget.

With Jared Goff out nursing a rib injury, the Lions (and its fanbase) got to see what the offense looks like with a new man under center. It’s no secret that he and the Lions’ offense dealt are struggling this season. Since Week 5, Goff only has one touchdown. Because of that, many suggested the Lions shake things up. After all, it wasn’t like the current situation was working. 

Being forced to put their backup, Tim Boyle got the start over David Blough. 

And it was a brutal afternoon for him.

For starters, he finished the game with less than 120 passing yards. Then there are the interceptions. Of his two picks, he threw one of them into double coverage. And lastly, his overall passing was less than desirable. He finished the game 15-for-23 with 77 yards in the air. Along with that, Boyle had a 34.1 passer rating. 

34.1! 

For the much-deserved criticism Jared Goff earned this season so far, he didn’t play this bad. 

Nov 21, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Tim Boyle (12) throws the ball during warmups before the game against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

Despite the poor outing, Tim Boyle may have another shot this week. The Lions have a short week as they face the Bears on Thanksgiving. Thursday could mark the second time the Lions start a backup on the annual holiday game in three seasons. 

Now there’s still a chance Goff could suit up. 

The Lions were still holding out hope until Sunday morning that he might be able to go. An extra few days off gives him a chance to heal and help the Lions get their first win of the season. Whether that happens is the real question. Nothing at this point indicates that Goff or Tim Boyle, for that matter, can get the job done.

Follow Kory Woods on Twitter at KoryEWoods.

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  1. […] paves the way for backup Tim Boyle to get his second start this season. Boyle received his first NFL career start during Week 11 as Jared Goff nursed a rib […]

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By Published On: November 21st, 2021Categories: NFL

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