Why did Lions take Hendon Hooker out early? Detroit pulls the plug on young QB

The Detroit Lions were supposed to play quarterback Hendon Hooker for the entire first half of the preseason Week 1 game against the Atlanta Falcons, but that did not happen.

With around four minutes remaining in the second quarter, the Lions inserted fellow backup Kyle Allen into the game to replace Hooker. 

As of this writing, it isn't clear if Detroit pulled Hooker because of injury or because of his struggles. Upon pulling him, Allen came into the game and immediately led Detroit on a touchdown drive.

Hooker was having a rough go of it before his exit. He did complete 7-of-10 passes, but only had 38 yards and he turned the ball over twice (two lost fumbles). Hooker also added three carries for 27 yards.

Earlier in the week, head coach Dan Campbell confirmed Hooker would get the first half after Allen got the first two quarters in the Hall of Fame Game.

Both quarterbacks struggled in the contest against the Los Angeles Chargers. Hooker didn't improve any on Friday night, while Allen is off to a great start with his opening-drive touchdown.

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