Detroit Lions offensive lineman Penei Sewell Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports

Analyst on emerging Lions OT Penei Sewell: ‘The guy’s a freak’

By Michael Gallagher | Last updated 10/1/22

The Detroit Lions have been one of the NFL’s surprise teams three weeks into the season, and their improved play on offense is a large reason why.

Detroit, which ranks second in the league in scoring offense and third in total offense, has the fifth-best offensive line in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus, and second-year offensive tackle Penei Sewell is among the team’s breakout stars.

Sewell, who has a 78.9 overall grade from PFF, has emerged as one of the better offensive lineman in the league, catching the eye of many, including NFL Network and Fox Sports analyst Brian Baldinger.

.@Lions @peneisewell58 is an emerging star. Physically there aren’t many at the OL position that can do what he can and he might not be 22 years old! Just get on Freeway 58 and pick up all the yards you need. #OnePride #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/e1wGGZYNH9
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) September 29, 2022

“If you watch Penei Sewell and what he’s doing in this league right now, it’s scary,” Baldinger said in a recent film breakdown. “Here’s the rule: if you hit the hip, you move the body. He’s the biggest guy on the field, he’s also the lowest guy on the field. …Watch him dig here, keep his feet, and then pick off the linebacker, pushing him out of the way on a 4th-and-1, they gain 5.”

The 6-foot-5, 335-pound Sewell has been an anchor for a Lions offensive line that blocks for the No. 3 rushing offense in the NFL, which averages 170.3 yards rushing per game and leads the league with 5.9 yards per carry. Detroit’s five rushing touchdowns are also tied for the second-most in the league.

Sewell has the fifth-best run blocking grade (86.0) according to PFF — fourth-highest among tackles and second-best among right tackles. He’s allowed six pressures, three hurries, two hits and just one sack on 208 offensive snaps this season.

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