Abdullah shines in Lions 23-3 exhibition win over Jets

Matthew Stafford connected with Golden Tate on a 35-year touchdown strike, but it was a rookie runner who stole the show.

The Detroit Lions opened the 2015 exhibition slate with a 23-3 win over the New York Jets while Nebraska rookie Ameer Abdullah debuted with 67 yards.

Abdullah dazzled with a 45-yard run and brought a spark to a retooled rushing game.

Stafford's strike to Tate made it 7-0, while Greg Salas caught a 20-yard touchdown from Dan Orlovsky in the third quarter.

Kicker Kyle Brindza kicked 49 and 41 yard field goals while the Jet's lone score came via a 34-yard Nick Folk field goal early.

Salas, a free agent signed from the Jets, caught five passes for 92 yards andTate added two catches for 57 yards.

The Lions play next at the Washington Redskins which can be seen on FOX 2,  at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 20.