Niner Noise
FanSided

The top question facing each NFL team entering 2017

By Peter Panacy

FOXBORO, MA - AUGUST 31: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots reacts before a preseason game with the New York Giants at Gillette Stadium on August 31, 2017 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
FOXBORO, MA - AUGUST 31: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots reacts before a preseason game with the New York Giants at Gillette Stadium on August 31, 2017 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) /
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – SEPTEMBER 11: Ameer Abdullah #21 of the Detroit Lions runs past a blocker during the second quarter of the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 11, 2016 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – SEPTEMBER 11: Ameer Abdullah #21 of the Detroit Lions runs past a blocker during the second quarter of the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 11, 2016 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Detroit Lions

How can running back Ameer Abdullah impact the offense?

The Detroit Lions dished out a ton of money to quarterback Matthew Stafford. They had to, it makes sense.

But the bigger question for Detroit this upcoming season is whether or not a balanced offense will exist with a healthy Ameer Abdullah starting at running back.

Last season, the Lions finished with the NFL’s 30th-ranked rushing attack. If they want to get back into the playoff hunt, a solid ground game will have to be a part of the equation.

If Abdullah can stay healthy and remain effective, the Lions stand a good chance.