Reacts results: Fans most excited for D.J. Reed return; confidence in Lions rising

Earlier this week, we published our latest SB Nation Reacts surveys, brought to you by the folks over at FanDuel Sportsbook, asking Detroit Lions fans two questions:

1. Are you confident the Lions are headed in the right direction?
2. Which injured starter are you most excited to return after the bye?

As for our weekly survey, things have risen back to pre-season expectations. This year, we’ve seen a few dips in confidence following the Lions’ two losses. But after a convincing win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 7—with the “Legion of Whom” dominating in the secondary—confidence has climbed to 98%, the second-highest mark of the season.

This week’s standalone question was surprisingly slanted towards one player.

With five Lions starters to choose from—including EDGE Marcus Davenport, CB D.J. Reed, CB Terrion Arnold, S Kerby Joseph, and S Brian Branch—Lions fans are most excited to see Reed get back on the field.

52% is a strong statement, so let’s look at the comment section of our original survey to allow Lions fans to explain their reactions and voting choices (slightly edited for clarity):

• Izzo4POTUS: “I went with Reed since Branch was only out due to the suspension, and Joseph seems to be able to play with knee pain if needed. I was amazed at how much better the patchwork secondary played this year, compared to the patchwork linebacker corps last year. Still, I will feel a lot better when Reed can lock down the opposing #1 receiver.”
• Im Agree: “The Legion of Whom filled in admirably against Baker and a hot Bucs team. Unlike last year, that should give us all quite a bit of confidence for the rest of the season and playoffs. I chose Reed. He’s our best performer in the secondary thus far.”
• LKP25: “DJ Reed. Him and Amik on the outside still will be shut down with this D-line.”

As a bonus, I scanned through this week’s SB Nation national surveys and came across a poll asking NFL fans which team will win the NFC North, and despite the Packers having a better winning percentage and winning their head-to-head matchup, NFL fans see the Lions for who they really are:

Throughout the year, we ask questions of the most plugged-in Detroit Lions fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.