BY BRANDON KING

Detroit Lions newcomer James Houston has been a nightmare for rival quarterbacks since being promoted from the practice squad on Thanksgiving Day.

Despite playing primarily on third downs in his first six games, the former Jackson State Tiger has eight sacks, which tops all NFL newcomers.

In his first career start against the Chicago Bears, Houston made three sacks and forced a turnover in a 41-10 win that kept the Lions’ postseason hopes alive.

“You earn your keep,” defensive coach Aaron Glenn said on Thursday. “He’s earned the right to play on third down, and he’s continued to earn it, just like everyone else on our defense.” You’re going to perform when you go out and practice the way you’re supposed to practice and demonstrate that you know what you’ve got and what’s going on.”

Houston’s performance earned him the Pepsi Rookie of the Week Award, which was chosen by a fan vote from among five other rookies: Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker (133 rushing yards), Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier (95 total yards, TD), Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett (168 yards, TD), 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (284 yards, 2 TDs), and Cardinals tight end Trey McBride. (78 yards, TD).