There weren't many bright spots for the Detroit Lions in the first half of their preseason opener against the New York Giants, but rookie running back Sione Vaki was one of them.
Vaki entered the game in the second quarter and busted off two impressive runs to get going. His first good run went for nine yards, but his best run of the night came on his next attempt, when he ripped off 15 yards through a big hole, while showing some nice vision and wiggle in the process.
Ultimately, Vaki saw four first-half carries and totaled 29 yards, good enough for 7.3 yards per carry. He was not targeted in the passing game.
Jake Bates is 💰 from 53❗️#DETvsNYG | 📺 Lions TV Network pic.twitter.com/va1B5v1oH1
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) August 8, 2024
Vaki did more than that, though. After an interception on a pass from quarterback Nate Sudfeld, Vaki showed hustle and pursued the ball-carrier and was in the right spot to pick up a fumble after Giants cornerback Tre Herndon coughed it up.
All in all, it was a good first half for Vaki, who is assured of a roster spot but is trying to make the case he should be the No. 3 on the depth chart. His main competition for that role, Craig Reynolds, tallied four carries for 11 yards.
It looks like Vaki's night is done as of right now.
