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From the twilight zone.....
Move over Cowboys, Lions are new America's Team
By SKIP WOOD • USA TODAY • May 13, 2009
It's ever so tempting to look at the Detroit Lions and roll one's eyes in cynical derision.
Or simply snicker.
And with ample cause, to be sure.
Fact is, until they prove otherwise, the Lions are about as scorn-worthy as NFL teams come.
They finished 0-16 last season, the first team in NFL history to go winless since the 16-game schedule was implemented in 1978.
Oh, and another thing — the Lions haven't had a winning season since 2000.
Oh, and another thing — in the aforementioned span of losing, they failed to win more than five games six times.
Yikes.
Are Lions fans tempted simply to throw up their hands in disgust?
"Sure, some are," says popular Detroit-area sports talk show host Mike Valente from 97.1 The Ticket (WXYT-FM), the Lions' flagship station. "And you also have the eternal optimists. But I think mostly what you have is people somewhere in the middle, people who say, 'Prove it to me.'?"
Yes, they have a new coach in Jim Schwartz. Yes, they have a new general manager in Martin Mayhew. Yes, they acquired some quality talent in the offseason to fill glaring needs. And yes, they have a potential franchise quarterback in rookie Matthew Stafford— and on this one, team officials are crossing their fingers.
But still, this is a team that's lost 23 of its last 24 games dating to 2007.
Here's the thing, though.
It also is ever so tempting to look at the Detroit Lions and really root for them for a variety of reasons.
Detroit — the city — is in a tough economic time right now, perhaps as tough as any city in the nation. Its lifeblood, the United States automobile industry, is in chaos.
Somewhat similarly, New Orleans was plunged into chaos a few years ago following Hurricane Katrina, which not only forced people from their homes but destroyed homes, along with many areas of the city. Then the Saints came marching back into town a year later and surprisingly marched all the way to the NFC Championship Game. The stunningly successful season helped at least provide a huge morale-booster for a place badly in need of one.
(2 of 5)
Valente understands such a comparison but doesn't necessarily agree with it.
"Maybe to a point, but I just think it's too convenient to equate everything (here) to what happened in New Orleans," he says. "The infrastructures are completely different. New Orleans had one Fortune 500 company, and Detroit has 15, and most of them are tied one way or another to the automobile industry.
"That's who we are, and with times like these ..."
He pauses before continuing.
"The similarity would be that, if the Lions were to have a (breakout) season, it would help take peoples' minds off the problems we're facing — just like the Saints did for New Orleans."
So it is also ever so tempting to look at the Lions and hope they blossom like the recently well-chronicled Susan Boyle, a decidedly modest-looking, middle-aged woman who opened her mouth on a televised singing competition —Britain's Got Talent, the United Kingdom's version of American Idol that also features judge Simon Cowell — and literally made jaws drop with her virtuoso voice, a performance that has spread across the world via the internet.
Schwartz certainly would welcome such a scenario from his team, which looks rather modest itself, to be kind, at first glance.
But despite examples in the past several seasons of teams going from zero to hero — the Dolphins, who picked first in the 2008 draft, went from 1-15 in 2007 to AFC East champs in 2008 — Schwartz and Mayhew have said time and time again that they're steadfastly committed to building a foundation for the future.
"The draft is not for opening day," Mayhew said in the run-up to Stafford's eventual selection last month with the first overall pick of the 2009 draft. "The draft is for this franchise for now, for three years from now, for five years from now. We want to be able to extend these players — we want these guys to be here for 10 years.
"So it's a bigger picture than just filling in spots and holes in the roster for opening day."
(3 of 5)
And that's all fine and well, save the fact that under former team president and CEO Matt Millen, so-called foundations for the future often crumbled, especially regarding draft picks — remember Joey Harrington, Charles Rogers and Mike Williams?
The exception is wideout Calvin Johnson, the second overall pick in 2007. The norm under Millen, however, pretty much was winding up with washouts.
But now comes Stafford.
A can't-miss choice? No. There's no such thing.
Reason for Lions fans to hope?
No doubt.
Stafford appears to be a player who genuinely is happy he landed at the headquarters of the lowliest franchise in the league — and not just because of his six-year deal that includes a guaranteed $41.7 million with a maximum value of $78 million.
He's saying all the right things and seems to have immediately grasped the larger situation at hand.
His new team is hurting, but so is his new town.
Just as Drew Brees and Reggie Bush did when arriving in New Orleans, attending and promoting numerous rebuilding efforts and fundraisers, Stafford says he wants to do much of the same thing.
"I know the city is struggling in many ways," he says, "and I'm trying to find something I'm passionate about — because I don't want to just write a check."
Mayhew, well aware that many fans would have preferred a so-called safe pick at No.?1 — say, Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry— is understanding but also resolute in the decision to go with Stafford.
"This guy can throw the football," he says. "We think our fans will be really excited to see Matthew play."
And see Matthew win.
And see the Lions win.
And see a Susan Boyle-like emergence.
"Like I said, it would be a nice way to give people suffering some entertainment, some genuine joy," Valente says. "Also keep in mind that what's happening here (with the auto industry) affects the rest of the country, too."
America's team?
Sorry, Dallas. In a lot of respects, America's team may well reside in Detroit.
(4 of 5)
Around the field in Detroit
Quarterback: This likely is going to be a training camp judgment call that plays out in one of two ways: play the ballyhooed rookie or play the aging but formerly ballyhooed veteran. The Lions used the draft's No.?1 overall pick on Matthew Stafford, and he probably could learn loads simply by watching and taking advice from old hand Daunte Culpepper.
Running back: Kevin Smith has emerged as the featured man. He is no Barry Sanders but nonetheless improved seemingly by the game last season. The Lions think he has considerable potential. Also on hand is newly acquired Maurice Morris.
Wide receiver: Two words and one name: Calvin Johnson. He was the bright spot last season with 1,331 receiving yards (fifth in the league) and 12 touchdowns (tied for first). Great speed and great size. But also in the house is new man Bryant Johnson, who's expected to be the No. 2 guy. Rookie Derrick Williams and former Oakland Raider Ronald Curry should play plenty.
Tight end: Say hello to Brandon Pettigrew, taken in the first round of the draft at the No.? 20 spot. He provides solid hands and will clear holes for Smith in the running game.
Offensive line: Injuries and ineffectiveness plagued this unit in 2008. But the Lions do have an undersized but feisty center in Dominic Raiola, a two-year captain. Jeff Backus is solid at left tackle, while 2008 first-rounder Gosder Cherilus didn't live up to his draft status at right tackle as a rookie. Guards? Open, but Stephen Peterman returns with a new contract.
Defensive line: Newcomer Grady Jackson is in the twilight of his career but adds 350 pounds to the defensive front. End Cliff Avril is a decent rusher off the edge. There also is youth, including fourth-round draft pick Sammie Lee Hill, a tackle from Stillman.
Linebacker: Julian Peterson arrives, and he brings Pro Bowl talent after being traded from the Seattle Seahawks for defensive tackle Cory Redding. On the weak side, Ernie Sims knows he needs to show considerable improvement. Questions loom in the middle, where rookie DeAndre Levy could start, but newly signed Larry Foote seems likely to get the job now. As a whole, the unit was relatively invisible last season.
(5 of 5)
Secondary: Cornerback Travis Fisher was released, going the same route as Leigh Bodden. That's what happens when your secondary accounts for one interception. Much-needed help could come from recent acquisitions Phillip Buchanon, Eric King and Anthony Henry. The Lions used a second-round draft pick on Louis Delmas, a hard-hitting safety likely to start immediately.
Special teams: Beginning his 18th season, kicker Jason Hanson is something to behold. Not only did he miss a single field goal attempt last season, he was the first kicker in league history to convert all eight attempts from 50 yards or farther. Punter Nick Harris doesn't boom them, but he does know how to place them. Long snapper Don Muhlbach is good; the return game, not so much.
Coaching staff: Out: Head coach Rod Marinelli. In: Jim Schwartz, who has worked and studied under the likes of Bill Belichick and Jeff Fisher. Gunther Cunningham is the new defensive coordinator despite his unit's struggles with the Kansas City Chiefs a year ago. The new offensive coordinator is former St. ?Louis Rams head coach Scott ?Linehan, who had success with Culpepper for the Minnesota Vikings.
Outlook: New general manager Martin Mayhew has stressed he's not putting together a roster for opening day but rather with an eye to the future. A positive spin for '09? The Lions shouldn't go winless again.
Valente understands such a comparison but doesn't necessarily agree with it.
"Maybe to a point, but I just think it's too convenient to equate everything (here) to what happened in New Orleans," he says. "The infrastructures are completely different. New Orleans had one Fortune 500 company, and Detroit has 15, and most of them are tied one way or another to the automobile industry.
"That's who we are, and with times like these ..."
He pauses before continuing.
"The similarity would be that, if the Lions were to have a (breakout) season, it would help take peoples' minds off the problems we're facing — just like the Saints did for New Orleans."
So it is also ever so tempting to look at the Lions and hope they blossom like the recently well-chronicled Susan Boyle, a decidedly modest-looking, middle-aged woman who opened her mouth on a televised singing competition —Britain's Got Talent, the United Kingdom's version of American Idol that also features judge Simon Cowell — and literally made jaws drop with her virtuoso voice, a performance that has spread across the world via the internet.
Schwartz certainly would welcome such a scenario from his team, which looks rather modest itself, to be kind, at first glance.
But despite examples in the past several seasons of teams going from zero to hero — the Dolphins, who picked first in the 2008 draft, went from 1-15 in 2007 to AFC East champs in 2008 — Schwartz and Mayhew have said time and time again that they're steadfastly committed to building a foundation for the future.
"The draft is not for opening day," Mayhew said in the run-up to Stafford's eventual selection last month with the first overall pick of the 2009 draft. "The draft is for this franchise for now, for three years from now, for five years from now. We want to be able to extend these players — we want these guys to be here for 10 years.
"So it's a bigger picture than just filling in spots and holes in the roster for opening day."
And that's all fine and well, save the fact that under former team president and CEO Matt Millen, so-called foundations for the future often crumbled, especially regarding draft picks — remember Joey Harrington, Charles Rogers and Mike Williams?
The exception is wideout Calvin Johnson, the second overall pick in 2007. The norm under Millen, however, pretty much was winding up with washouts.
But now comes Stafford.
A can't-miss choice? No. There's no such thing.
Reason for Lions fans to hope?
No doubt.
Stafford appears to be a player who genuinely is happy he landed at the headquarters of the lowliest franchise in the league — and not just because of his six-year deal that includes a guaranteed $41.7 million with a maximum value of $78 million.
He's saying all the right things and seems to have immediately grasped the larger situation at hand.
His new team is hurting, but so is his new town.
Just as Drew Brees and Reggie Bush did when arriving in New Orleans, attending and promoting numerous rebuilding efforts and fundraisers, Stafford says he wants to do much of the same thing.
"I know the city is struggling in many ways," he says, "and I'm trying to find something I'm passionate about — because I don't want to just write a check."
Mayhew, well aware that many fans would have preferred a so-called safe pick at No.?1 — say, Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry— is understanding but also resolute in the decision to go with Stafford.
"This guy can throw the football," he says. "We think our fans will be really excited to see Matthew play."
And see Matthew win.
And see the Lions win.
And see a Susan Boyle-like emergence.
"Like I said, it would be a nice way to give people suffering some entertainment, some genuine joy," Valente says. "Also keep in mind that what's happening here (with the auto industry) affects the rest of the country, too."
America's team?
Sorry, Dallas. In a lot of respects, America's team may well reside in Detroit.
(4 of 5)
Around the field in Detroit
Quarterback: This likely is going to be a training camp judgment call that plays out in one of two ways: play the ballyhooed rookie or play the aging but formerly ballyhooed veteran. The Lions used the draft's No.?1 overall pick on Matthew Stafford, and he probably could learn loads simply by watching and taking advice from old hand Daunte Culpepper.
Running back: Kevin Smith has emerged as the featured man. He is no Barry Sanders but nonetheless improved seemingly by the game last season. The Lions think he has considerable potential. Also on hand is newly acquired Maurice Morris.
Wide receiver: Two words and one name: Calvin Johnson. He was the bright spot last season with 1,331 receiving yards (fifth in the league) and 12 touchdowns (tied for first). Great speed and great size. But also in the house is new man Bryant Johnson, who's expected to be the No. 2 guy. Rookie Derrick Williams and former Oakland Raider Ronald Curry should play plenty.
Tight end: Say hello to Brandon Pettigrew, taken in the first round of the draft at the No.? 20 spot. He provides solid hands and will clear holes for Smith in the running game.
Offensive line: Injuries and ineffectiveness plagued this unit in 2008. But the Lions do have an undersized but feisty center in Dominic Raiola, a two-year captain. Jeff Backus is solid at left tackle, while 2008 first-rounder Gosder Cherilus didn't live up to his draft status at right tackle as a rookie. Guards? Open, but Stephen Peterman returns with a new contract.
Defensive line: Newcomer Grady Jackson is in the twilight of his career but adds 350 pounds to the defensive front. End Cliff Avril is a decent rusher off the edge. There also is youth, including fourth-round draft pick Sammie Lee Hill, a tackle from Stillman.
Linebacker: Julian Peterson arrives, and he brings Pro Bowl talent after being traded from the Seattle Seahawks for defensive tackle Cory Redding. On the weak side, Ernie Sims knows he needs to show considerable improvement. Questions loom in the middle, where rookie DeAndre Levy could start, but newly signed Larry Foote seems likely to get the job now. As a whole, the unit was relatively invisible last season.
(5 of 5)
Secondary: Cornerback Travis Fisher was released, going the same route as Leigh Bodden. That's what happens when your secondary accounts for one interception. Much-needed help could come from recent acquisitions Phillip Buchanon, Eric King and Anthony Henry. The Lions used a second-round draft pick on Louis Delmas, a hard-hitting safety likely to start immediately.
Special teams: Beginning his 18th season, kicker Jason Hanson is something to behold. Not only did he miss a single field goal attempt last season, he was the first kicker in league history to convert all eight attempts from 50 yards or farther. Punter Nick Harris doesn't boom them, but he does know how to place them. Long snapper Don Muhlbach is good; the return game, not so much.
Coaching staff: Out: Head coach Rod Marinelli. In: Jim Schwartz, who has worked and studied under the likes of Bill Belichick and Jeff Fisher. Gunther Cunningham is the new defensive coordinator despite his unit's struggles with the Kansas City Chiefs a year ago. The new offensive coordinator is former St. ?Louis Rams head coach Scott ?Linehan, who had success with Culpepper for the Minnesota Vikings.
Outlook: New general manager Martin Mayhew has stressed he's not putting together a roster for opening day but rather with an eye to the future. A positive spin for '09? The Lions shouldn't go winless again.
Around the field in Detroit
Quarterback: This likely is going to be a training camp judgment call that plays out in one of two ways: play the ballyhooed rookie or play the aging but formerly ballyhooed veteran. The Lions used the draft's No.?1 overall pick on Matthew Stafford, and he probably could learn loads simply by watching and taking advice from old hand Daunte Culpepper.
Running back: Kevin Smith has emerged as the featured man. He is no Barry Sanders but nonetheless improved seemingly by the game last season. The Lions think he has considerable potential. Also on hand is newly acquired Maurice Morris.
Wide receiver: Two words and one name: Calvin Johnson. He was the bright spot last season with 1,331 receiving yards (fifth in the league) and 12 touchdowns (tied for first). Great speed and great size. But also in the house is new man Bryant Johnson, who's expected to be the No. 2 guy. Rookie Derrick Williams and former Oakland Raider Ronald Curry should play plenty.
Tight end: Say hello to Brandon Pettigrew, taken in the first round of the draft at the No.? 20 spot. He provides solid hands and will clear holes for Smith in the running game.
Offensive line: Injuries and ineffectiveness plagued this unit in 2008. But the Lions do have an undersized but feisty center in Dominic Raiola, a two-year captain. Jeff Backus is solid at left tackle, while 2008 first-rounder Gosder Cherilus didn't live up to his draft status at right tackle as a rookie. Guards? Open, but Stephen Peterman returns with a new contract.
Defensive line: Newcomer Grady Jackson is in the twilight of his career but adds 350 pounds to the defensive front. End Cliff Avril is a decent rusher off the edge. There also is youth, including fourth-round draft pick Sammie Lee Hill, a tackle from Stillman.
Linebacker: Julian Peterson arrives, and he brings Pro Bowl talent after being traded from the Seattle Seahawks for defensive tackle Cory Redding. On the weak side, Ernie Sims knows he needs to show considerable improvement. Questions loom in the middle, where rookie DeAndre Levy could start, but newly signed Larry Foote seems likely to get the job now. As a whole, the unit was relatively invisible last season.
(5 of 5)
Secondary: Cornerback Travis Fisher was released, going the same route as Leigh Bodden. That's what happens when your secondary accounts for one interception. Much-needed help could come from recent acquisitions Phillip Buchanon, Eric King and Anthony Henry. The Lions used a second-round draft pick on Louis Delmas, a hard-hitting safety likely to start immediately.
Special teams: Beginning his 18th season, kicker Jason Hanson is something to behold. Not only did he miss a single field goal attempt last season, he was the first kicker in league history to convert all eight attempts from 50 yards or farther. Punter Nick Harris doesn't boom them, but he does know how to place them. Long snapper Don Muhlbach is good; the return game, not so much.
Coaching staff: Out: Head coach Rod Marinelli. In: Jim Schwartz, who has worked and studied under the likes of Bill Belichick and Jeff Fisher. Gunther Cunningham is the new defensive coordinator despite his unit's struggles with the Kansas City Chiefs a year ago. The new offensive coordinator is former St. ?Louis Rams head coach Scott ?Linehan, who had success with Culpepper for the Minnesota Vikings.
Outlook: New general manager Martin Mayhew has stressed he's not putting together a roster for opening day but rather with an eye to the future. A positive spin for '09? The Lions shouldn't go winless again.
Secondary: Cornerback Travis Fisher was released, going the same route as Leigh Bodden. That's what happens when your secondary accounts for one interception. Much-needed help could come from recent acquisitions Phillip Buchanon, Eric King and Anthony Henry. The Lions used a second-round draft pick on Louis Delmas, a hard-hitting safety likely to start immediately.
Special teams: Beginning his 18th season, kicker Jason Hanson is something to behold. Not only did he miss a single field goal attempt last season, he was the first kicker in league history to convert all eight attempts from 50 yards or farther. Punter Nick Harris doesn't boom them, but he does know how to place them. Long snapper Don Muhlbach is good; the return game, not so much.
Coaching staff: Out: Head coach Rod Marinelli. In: Jim Schwartz, who has worked and studied under the likes of Bill Belichick and Jeff Fisher. Gunther Cunningham is the new defensive coordinator despite his unit's struggles with the Kansas City Chiefs a year ago. The new offensive coordinator is former St. ?Louis Rams head coach Scott ?Linehan, who had success with Culpepper for the Minnesota Vikings.
Outlook: New general manager Martin Mayhew has stressed he's not putting together a roster for opening day but rather with an eye to the future. A positive spin for '09? The Lions shouldn't go winless again.
http://www.freep.com/article/200905...ve+over+Cowboys++Lions+are+new+America+s+Team
Move over Cowboys, Lions are new America's Team
By SKIP WOOD • USA TODAY • May 13, 2009
It's ever so tempting to look at the Detroit Lions and roll one's eyes in cynical derision.
Or simply snicker.
And with ample cause, to be sure.
Fact is, until they prove otherwise, the Lions are about as scorn-worthy as NFL teams come.
They finished 0-16 last season, the first team in NFL history to go winless since the 16-game schedule was implemented in 1978.
Oh, and another thing — the Lions haven't had a winning season since 2000.
Oh, and another thing — in the aforementioned span of losing, they failed to win more than five games six times.
Yikes.
Are Lions fans tempted simply to throw up their hands in disgust?
"Sure, some are," says popular Detroit-area sports talk show host Mike Valente from 97.1 The Ticket (WXYT-FM), the Lions' flagship station. "And you also have the eternal optimists. But I think mostly what you have is people somewhere in the middle, people who say, 'Prove it to me.'?"
Yes, they have a new coach in Jim Schwartz. Yes, they have a new general manager in Martin Mayhew. Yes, they acquired some quality talent in the offseason to fill glaring needs. And yes, they have a potential franchise quarterback in rookie Matthew Stafford— and on this one, team officials are crossing their fingers.
But still, this is a team that's lost 23 of its last 24 games dating to 2007.
Here's the thing, though.
It also is ever so tempting to look at the Detroit Lions and really root for them for a variety of reasons.
Detroit — the city — is in a tough economic time right now, perhaps as tough as any city in the nation. Its lifeblood, the United States automobile industry, is in chaos.
Somewhat similarly, New Orleans was plunged into chaos a few years ago following Hurricane Katrina, which not only forced people from their homes but destroyed homes, along with many areas of the city. Then the Saints came marching back into town a year later and surprisingly marched all the way to the NFC Championship Game. The stunningly successful season helped at least provide a huge morale-booster for a place badly in need of one.
(2 of 5)
Valente understands such a comparison but doesn't necessarily agree with it.
"Maybe to a point, but I just think it's too convenient to equate everything (here) to what happened in New Orleans," he says. "The infrastructures are completely different. New Orleans had one Fortune 500 company, and Detroit has 15, and most of them are tied one way or another to the automobile industry.
"That's who we are, and with times like these ..."
He pauses before continuing.
"The similarity would be that, if the Lions were to have a (breakout) season, it would help take peoples' minds off the problems we're facing — just like the Saints did for New Orleans."
So it is also ever so tempting to look at the Lions and hope they blossom like the recently well-chronicled Susan Boyle, a decidedly modest-looking, middle-aged woman who opened her mouth on a televised singing competition —Britain's Got Talent, the United Kingdom's version of American Idol that also features judge Simon Cowell — and literally made jaws drop with her virtuoso voice, a performance that has spread across the world via the internet.
Schwartz certainly would welcome such a scenario from his team, which looks rather modest itself, to be kind, at first glance.
But despite examples in the past several seasons of teams going from zero to hero — the Dolphins, who picked first in the 2008 draft, went from 1-15 in 2007 to AFC East champs in 2008 — Schwartz and Mayhew have said time and time again that they're steadfastly committed to building a foundation for the future.
"The draft is not for opening day," Mayhew said in the run-up to Stafford's eventual selection last month with the first overall pick of the 2009 draft. "The draft is for this franchise for now, for three years from now, for five years from now. We want to be able to extend these players — we want these guys to be here for 10 years.
"So it's a bigger picture than just filling in spots and holes in the roster for opening day."
(3 of 5)
And that's all fine and well, save the fact that under former team president and CEO Matt Millen, so-called foundations for the future often crumbled, especially regarding draft picks — remember Joey Harrington, Charles Rogers and Mike Williams?
The exception is wideout Calvin Johnson, the second overall pick in 2007. The norm under Millen, however, pretty much was winding up with washouts.
But now comes Stafford.
A can't-miss choice? No. There's no such thing.
Reason for Lions fans to hope?
No doubt.
Stafford appears to be a player who genuinely is happy he landed at the headquarters of the lowliest franchise in the league — and not just because of his six-year deal that includes a guaranteed $41.7 million with a maximum value of $78 million.
He's saying all the right things and seems to have immediately grasped the larger situation at hand.
His new team is hurting, but so is his new town.
Just as Drew Brees and Reggie Bush did when arriving in New Orleans, attending and promoting numerous rebuilding efforts and fundraisers, Stafford says he wants to do much of the same thing.
"I know the city is struggling in many ways," he says, "and I'm trying to find something I'm passionate about — because I don't want to just write a check."
Mayhew, well aware that many fans would have preferred a so-called safe pick at No.?1 — say, Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry— is understanding but also resolute in the decision to go with Stafford.
"This guy can throw the football," he says. "We think our fans will be really excited to see Matthew play."
And see Matthew win.
And see the Lions win.
And see a Susan Boyle-like emergence.
"Like I said, it would be a nice way to give people suffering some entertainment, some genuine joy," Valente says. "Also keep in mind that what's happening here (with the auto industry) affects the rest of the country, too."
America's team?
Sorry, Dallas. In a lot of respects, America's team may well reside in Detroit.
(4 of 5)
Around the field in Detroit
Quarterback: This likely is going to be a training camp judgment call that plays out in one of two ways: play the ballyhooed rookie or play the aging but formerly ballyhooed veteran. The Lions used the draft's No.?1 overall pick on Matthew Stafford, and he probably could learn loads simply by watching and taking advice from old hand Daunte Culpepper.
Running back: Kevin Smith has emerged as the featured man. He is no Barry Sanders but nonetheless improved seemingly by the game last season. The Lions think he has considerable potential. Also on hand is newly acquired Maurice Morris.
Wide receiver: Two words and one name: Calvin Johnson. He was the bright spot last season with 1,331 receiving yards (fifth in the league) and 12 touchdowns (tied for first). Great speed and great size. But also in the house is new man Bryant Johnson, who's expected to be the No. 2 guy. Rookie Derrick Williams and former Oakland Raider Ronald Curry should play plenty.
Tight end: Say hello to Brandon Pettigrew, taken in the first round of the draft at the No.? 20 spot. He provides solid hands and will clear holes for Smith in the running game.
Offensive line: Injuries and ineffectiveness plagued this unit in 2008. But the Lions do have an undersized but feisty center in Dominic Raiola, a two-year captain. Jeff Backus is solid at left tackle, while 2008 first-rounder Gosder Cherilus didn't live up to his draft status at right tackle as a rookie. Guards? Open, but Stephen Peterman returns with a new contract.
Defensive line: Newcomer Grady Jackson is in the twilight of his career but adds 350 pounds to the defensive front. End Cliff Avril is a decent rusher off the edge. There also is youth, including fourth-round draft pick Sammie Lee Hill, a tackle from Stillman.
Linebacker: Julian Peterson arrives, and he brings Pro Bowl talent after being traded from the Seattle Seahawks for defensive tackle Cory Redding. On the weak side, Ernie Sims knows he needs to show considerable improvement. Questions loom in the middle, where rookie DeAndre Levy could start, but newly signed Larry Foote seems likely to get the job now. As a whole, the unit was relatively invisible last season.
(5 of 5)
Secondary: Cornerback Travis Fisher was released, going the same route as Leigh Bodden. That's what happens when your secondary accounts for one interception. Much-needed help could come from recent acquisitions Phillip Buchanon, Eric King and Anthony Henry. The Lions used a second-round draft pick on Louis Delmas, a hard-hitting safety likely to start immediately.
Special teams: Beginning his 18th season, kicker Jason Hanson is something to behold. Not only did he miss a single field goal attempt last season, he was the first kicker in league history to convert all eight attempts from 50 yards or farther. Punter Nick Harris doesn't boom them, but he does know how to place them. Long snapper Don Muhlbach is good; the return game, not so much.
Coaching staff: Out: Head coach Rod Marinelli. In: Jim Schwartz, who has worked and studied under the likes of Bill Belichick and Jeff Fisher. Gunther Cunningham is the new defensive coordinator despite his unit's struggles with the Kansas City Chiefs a year ago. The new offensive coordinator is former St. ?Louis Rams head coach Scott ?Linehan, who had success with Culpepper for the Minnesota Vikings.
Outlook: New general manager Martin Mayhew has stressed he's not putting together a roster for opening day but rather with an eye to the future. A positive spin for '09? The Lions shouldn't go winless again.
Valente understands such a comparison but doesn't necessarily agree with it.
"Maybe to a point, but I just think it's too convenient to equate everything (here) to what happened in New Orleans," he says. "The infrastructures are completely different. New Orleans had one Fortune 500 company, and Detroit has 15, and most of them are tied one way or another to the automobile industry.
"That's who we are, and with times like these ..."
He pauses before continuing.
"The similarity would be that, if the Lions were to have a (breakout) season, it would help take peoples' minds off the problems we're facing — just like the Saints did for New Orleans."
So it is also ever so tempting to look at the Lions and hope they blossom like the recently well-chronicled Susan Boyle, a decidedly modest-looking, middle-aged woman who opened her mouth on a televised singing competition —Britain's Got Talent, the United Kingdom's version of American Idol that also features judge Simon Cowell — and literally made jaws drop with her virtuoso voice, a performance that has spread across the world via the internet.
Schwartz certainly would welcome such a scenario from his team, which looks rather modest itself, to be kind, at first glance.
But despite examples in the past several seasons of teams going from zero to hero — the Dolphins, who picked first in the 2008 draft, went from 1-15 in 2007 to AFC East champs in 2008 — Schwartz and Mayhew have said time and time again that they're steadfastly committed to building a foundation for the future.
"The draft is not for opening day," Mayhew said in the run-up to Stafford's eventual selection last month with the first overall pick of the 2009 draft. "The draft is for this franchise for now, for three years from now, for five years from now. We want to be able to extend these players — we want these guys to be here for 10 years.
"So it's a bigger picture than just filling in spots and holes in the roster for opening day."
And that's all fine and well, save the fact that under former team president and CEO Matt Millen, so-called foundations for the future often crumbled, especially regarding draft picks — remember Joey Harrington, Charles Rogers and Mike Williams?
The exception is wideout Calvin Johnson, the second overall pick in 2007. The norm under Millen, however, pretty much was winding up with washouts.
But now comes Stafford.
A can't-miss choice? No. There's no such thing.
Reason for Lions fans to hope?
No doubt.
Stafford appears to be a player who genuinely is happy he landed at the headquarters of the lowliest franchise in the league — and not just because of his six-year deal that includes a guaranteed $41.7 million with a maximum value of $78 million.
He's saying all the right things and seems to have immediately grasped the larger situation at hand.
His new team is hurting, but so is his new town.
Just as Drew Brees and Reggie Bush did when arriving in New Orleans, attending and promoting numerous rebuilding efforts and fundraisers, Stafford says he wants to do much of the same thing.
"I know the city is struggling in many ways," he says, "and I'm trying to find something I'm passionate about — because I don't want to just write a check."
Mayhew, well aware that many fans would have preferred a so-called safe pick at No.?1 — say, Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry— is understanding but also resolute in the decision to go with Stafford.
"This guy can throw the football," he says. "We think our fans will be really excited to see Matthew play."
And see Matthew win.
And see the Lions win.
And see a Susan Boyle-like emergence.
"Like I said, it would be a nice way to give people suffering some entertainment, some genuine joy," Valente says. "Also keep in mind that what's happening here (with the auto industry) affects the rest of the country, too."
America's team?
Sorry, Dallas. In a lot of respects, America's team may well reside in Detroit.
(4 of 5)
Around the field in Detroit
Quarterback: This likely is going to be a training camp judgment call that plays out in one of two ways: play the ballyhooed rookie or play the aging but formerly ballyhooed veteran. The Lions used the draft's No.?1 overall pick on Matthew Stafford, and he probably could learn loads simply by watching and taking advice from old hand Daunte Culpepper.
Running back: Kevin Smith has emerged as the featured man. He is no Barry Sanders but nonetheless improved seemingly by the game last season. The Lions think he has considerable potential. Also on hand is newly acquired Maurice Morris.
Wide receiver: Two words and one name: Calvin Johnson. He was the bright spot last season with 1,331 receiving yards (fifth in the league) and 12 touchdowns (tied for first). Great speed and great size. But also in the house is new man Bryant Johnson, who's expected to be the No. 2 guy. Rookie Derrick Williams and former Oakland Raider Ronald Curry should play plenty.
Tight end: Say hello to Brandon Pettigrew, taken in the first round of the draft at the No.? 20 spot. He provides solid hands and will clear holes for Smith in the running game.
Offensive line: Injuries and ineffectiveness plagued this unit in 2008. But the Lions do have an undersized but feisty center in Dominic Raiola, a two-year captain. Jeff Backus is solid at left tackle, while 2008 first-rounder Gosder Cherilus didn't live up to his draft status at right tackle as a rookie. Guards? Open, but Stephen Peterman returns with a new contract.
Defensive line: Newcomer Grady Jackson is in the twilight of his career but adds 350 pounds to the defensive front. End Cliff Avril is a decent rusher off the edge. There also is youth, including fourth-round draft pick Sammie Lee Hill, a tackle from Stillman.
Linebacker: Julian Peterson arrives, and he brings Pro Bowl talent after being traded from the Seattle Seahawks for defensive tackle Cory Redding. On the weak side, Ernie Sims knows he needs to show considerable improvement. Questions loom in the middle, where rookie DeAndre Levy could start, but newly signed Larry Foote seems likely to get the job now. As a whole, the unit was relatively invisible last season.
(5 of 5)
Secondary: Cornerback Travis Fisher was released, going the same route as Leigh Bodden. That's what happens when your secondary accounts for one interception. Much-needed help could come from recent acquisitions Phillip Buchanon, Eric King and Anthony Henry. The Lions used a second-round draft pick on Louis Delmas, a hard-hitting safety likely to start immediately.
Special teams: Beginning his 18th season, kicker Jason Hanson is something to behold. Not only did he miss a single field goal attempt last season, he was the first kicker in league history to convert all eight attempts from 50 yards or farther. Punter Nick Harris doesn't boom them, but he does know how to place them. Long snapper Don Muhlbach is good; the return game, not so much.
Coaching staff: Out: Head coach Rod Marinelli. In: Jim Schwartz, who has worked and studied under the likes of Bill Belichick and Jeff Fisher. Gunther Cunningham is the new defensive coordinator despite his unit's struggles with the Kansas City Chiefs a year ago. The new offensive coordinator is former St. ?Louis Rams head coach Scott ?Linehan, who had success with Culpepper for the Minnesota Vikings.
Outlook: New general manager Martin Mayhew has stressed he's not putting together a roster for opening day but rather with an eye to the future. A positive spin for '09? The Lions shouldn't go winless again.
Around the field in Detroit
Quarterback: This likely is going to be a training camp judgment call that plays out in one of two ways: play the ballyhooed rookie or play the aging but formerly ballyhooed veteran. The Lions used the draft's No.?1 overall pick on Matthew Stafford, and he probably could learn loads simply by watching and taking advice from old hand Daunte Culpepper.
Running back: Kevin Smith has emerged as the featured man. He is no Barry Sanders but nonetheless improved seemingly by the game last season. The Lions think he has considerable potential. Also on hand is newly acquired Maurice Morris.
Wide receiver: Two words and one name: Calvin Johnson. He was the bright spot last season with 1,331 receiving yards (fifth in the league) and 12 touchdowns (tied for first). Great speed and great size. But also in the house is new man Bryant Johnson, who's expected to be the No. 2 guy. Rookie Derrick Williams and former Oakland Raider Ronald Curry should play plenty.
Tight end: Say hello to Brandon Pettigrew, taken in the first round of the draft at the No.? 20 spot. He provides solid hands and will clear holes for Smith in the running game.
Offensive line: Injuries and ineffectiveness plagued this unit in 2008. But the Lions do have an undersized but feisty center in Dominic Raiola, a two-year captain. Jeff Backus is solid at left tackle, while 2008 first-rounder Gosder Cherilus didn't live up to his draft status at right tackle as a rookie. Guards? Open, but Stephen Peterman returns with a new contract.
Defensive line: Newcomer Grady Jackson is in the twilight of his career but adds 350 pounds to the defensive front. End Cliff Avril is a decent rusher off the edge. There also is youth, including fourth-round draft pick Sammie Lee Hill, a tackle from Stillman.
Linebacker: Julian Peterson arrives, and he brings Pro Bowl talent after being traded from the Seattle Seahawks for defensive tackle Cory Redding. On the weak side, Ernie Sims knows he needs to show considerable improvement. Questions loom in the middle, where rookie DeAndre Levy could start, but newly signed Larry Foote seems likely to get the job now. As a whole, the unit was relatively invisible last season.
(5 of 5)
Secondary: Cornerback Travis Fisher was released, going the same route as Leigh Bodden. That's what happens when your secondary accounts for one interception. Much-needed help could come from recent acquisitions Phillip Buchanon, Eric King and Anthony Henry. The Lions used a second-round draft pick on Louis Delmas, a hard-hitting safety likely to start immediately.
Special teams: Beginning his 18th season, kicker Jason Hanson is something to behold. Not only did he miss a single field goal attempt last season, he was the first kicker in league history to convert all eight attempts from 50 yards or farther. Punter Nick Harris doesn't boom them, but he does know how to place them. Long snapper Don Muhlbach is good; the return game, not so much.
Coaching staff: Out: Head coach Rod Marinelli. In: Jim Schwartz, who has worked and studied under the likes of Bill Belichick and Jeff Fisher. Gunther Cunningham is the new defensive coordinator despite his unit's struggles with the Kansas City Chiefs a year ago. The new offensive coordinator is former St. ?Louis Rams head coach Scott ?Linehan, who had success with Culpepper for the Minnesota Vikings.
Outlook: New general manager Martin Mayhew has stressed he's not putting together a roster for opening day but rather with an eye to the future. A positive spin for '09? The Lions shouldn't go winless again.
Secondary: Cornerback Travis Fisher was released, going the same route as Leigh Bodden. That's what happens when your secondary accounts for one interception. Much-needed help could come from recent acquisitions Phillip Buchanon, Eric King and Anthony Henry. The Lions used a second-round draft pick on Louis Delmas, a hard-hitting safety likely to start immediately.
Special teams: Beginning his 18th season, kicker Jason Hanson is something to behold. Not only did he miss a single field goal attempt last season, he was the first kicker in league history to convert all eight attempts from 50 yards or farther. Punter Nick Harris doesn't boom them, but he does know how to place them. Long snapper Don Muhlbach is good; the return game, not so much.
Coaching staff: Out: Head coach Rod Marinelli. In: Jim Schwartz, who has worked and studied under the likes of Bill Belichick and Jeff Fisher. Gunther Cunningham is the new defensive coordinator despite his unit's struggles with the Kansas City Chiefs a year ago. The new offensive coordinator is former St. ?Louis Rams head coach Scott ?Linehan, who had success with Culpepper for the Minnesota Vikings.
Outlook: New general manager Martin Mayhew has stressed he's not putting together a roster for opening day but rather with an eye to the future. A positive spin for '09? The Lions shouldn't go winless again.
http://www.freep.com/article/200905...ve+over+Cowboys++Lions+are+new+America+s+Team
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