Lions tight end Roberts relishes end of scoreless streak

Allen Park — Michael Roberts knew the number as if it were his birthdate or his phone number.

Six hundred thirty-eight. 

And it was a time for celebration for the Lions tight end. 

Roberts’ touchdown catch in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s loss at San Francisco ended a string of 638 days since his last touchdown, in college at Toledo. 

“To be honest, I knew from a year and then I just added from there,” Roberts said. “The last time I scored was Dec. 17, 2016. 

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“It meant the most. We definitely needed it at that time and I was glad I could be the one to put us in a position to win.”

Roberts’ grab pulled the Lions within 30-27 in the final minutes, but they weren’t able to get any closer, as they fell to 0-2. It was just a glimpse of Roberts’ potential, though there haven’t been many instances outside of the practice field. 

Getting one in a game ends the streak but also puts something on film to build Roberts’ confidence, after he finished with just four catches for 46 yards as a rookie last season.

“It’s very important. It’s something I do in practice pretty often. It’s just nice to be able to show the world the talents I have,” Roberts said. “It was a weight lifted, but it was a moment I dreamed about. 

“I dreamed about that moment so many times and the way it happened was ideal to me. The feeling was way better.” 

Rod.Beard@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @detnewsRodBeard