Question

The Colts last year improved from worst to first in sacks (decreasing from 56 in 2017 down to 18). In the 16-game era, what is the only other franchise that has improved from last place to first place in sacks in a single season? Said team went 2-14, allowing 66 sacks, drafted a quarterback #3 overall, and he helped move the sack number all the way down to 20 in his rookie season.

Answer

Detroit, in 2002. Joey Harrington was very good at throwing away balls as pass protection broke down – remarkably took only 8 sacks in 14 games. Alas, Harrington completed only 50 percent of his passes, and the Lions weren’t much more competitive that year, finishing just 3-13.