Last season’s metrics highlight Sam LaPorta’s significant impact on the Detroit Lions.
With LaPorta, the Lions went 6-3 and averaged 31.4 points per game (PPG); without him, they were 3-5 and averaged 24 PPG.
The Lions have averaged 31 PPG with LaPorta compared to 24 PPG without him throughout his career—a consistent seven-point difference.
To end the season, the Lions lost four of five games by seven or fewer points while LaPorta was sidelined.
The team holds a 32-10 record (.762) with him in the lineup, compared to 4-5 (.444) without him.
This disparity was even more pronounced against division rivals, where the Lions averaged 29.6 PPG with LaPorta but only 17.6 PPG without him.
LaPorta’s absence also significantly impacts the rushing attack.
His elite run-blocking creates a stark difference in the ground game, most evident in star running back Jahmyr Gibbs’ advanced metrics.
Gibbs recorded a +30.0% DVOA (2nd among RBs) with LaPorta on the field, which plummeted to -18.9% DVOA (57th) without him.
Additionally, LaPorta’s blocking allowed Gibbs to average 3.0 yards before contact per attempt, compared to just 1.4 yards without him.