So, we are halfway through the regular season, and our beloved Lions sit at 6-2. We are now staring down the bye week weekend, and now is a good time to review what can be expected in the second half, and what we need to address.
1. Expect the second half to be tougher than the first half. There are no Kansas City or Denver games in the future of this remaining season. Oakland, San Diego, New Orleans and Carolina will be our non-division games. Two against Green Bay, Chicago away and Minnesota. The Vikings game is the only one that might be a blow out. Carolina isn't a very strong team, but Cam Newton has shown that he can take over a game, and the Lions have struggled against mobile quarterbacks with big arms. Carolina also has a couple really good backs in DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. I see no 30 point blow outs coming.
2. Expect teams to try harder to take Calvin out of the game, and to put immense pressure on Matt Stafford. Teams that pressure Stafford consistently are the ones who play us toughest. They don't have to take special measures to stop our running game, so they basically challenge the Lions to win through the air. If they can take the CJ option away by double coverage and pressure/blitzing, then the Lions are struggling to move the ball consistently. Scott Linehan has to find a way to open up other avenues to Matt Stafford. Nate Burleson and Titus Young have to work off the jams that they are facing at the line. Somehow the Lions are going to have to overcome this recipe that opposing teams are using to stop them.
3. Stop the opposing running game. Both Atlanta and San Francisco ran against Detroit successfully, and used it to make the passing game that much more effective on their behalves. Chicago kept the game close in Detroit by running. Minnesota and Dallas abandoned their running games with the lead, and it cost them their respective games against Detroit. Denver had a good running game, but Tebow and their defense were so bad it didn't make a difference. All told, teams know they can run on Detroit, and will create an effective game plan to that end. The Lions defense is going to have to play more disciplined, filling the assigned gaps they are given, not allowing the trap and misdirection plays to be as effective, and for God's sake will someone learn how to form tackle?!
4. Continue the third down defense, but cut out the dumb penalties. The Lions currently lead the league in stinginess against opposing offenses attempting to convert a third down. Teams have been successful 29% of the time (32 of 110). That's incredible, and is a direct result of a much improved pass defense. That statistic could be better if not for some foolish pre-snap penalties. And it goes both ways. The offense could be much more successful if they would stop the false starts and holding penalties. Disciplined teams fare much better in close games over teams that are more penalized. The Lions have to address this issue before they ever reach the "elite" level.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Life after a Lions Loss
OK, so we've all been here before. In fact, too many times have we, as Lions fans, been here before. We are mulling over a loss, and wondering what will happen in the upcoming game. The Lions will face Atlanta, in what may prove to be a contest between two teams that are leading contenders for being wildcard playoff teams in the NFC. Atlanta has struggled, but is coming off a pretty strong victory against an up and coming Carolina team. Matt Ryan hasn't exactly been himself, but the last two games he seems to have settled down, as has his offensive line. Michael Turner is coming off his best performance of the year, having run for over 100 yards and two touchdowns. But make no mistake, the Falcons still have some work to do. They will be facing a Lions team, at home, coming off a disappointing performance in front of their home crowd. Despite a poor showing by the offensive line, Matt Stafford and the special teams units, the Lions still had a chance to win. The 49ers were helped by the rotten work of the officials, but that is no excuse. Compound the loss with the fact that the team has now likely lost two of their running backs in the same week, three for the season, and it could be easy for them to take the low road and start singing "Poor, Poor, Pitiful Me".
I don't expect that will be the case.
The Lions know they have to stop Michael Turner. They did a very bad job of filling gaps and working against the trap and counter plays of the 49ers. Rest assured that the Lions likely were drilled on the diagnosis and disruption of those types of plays this week, as the Falcons like to work those too. The linebackers were filling the wrong gaps, so watch for them to take a more careful approach to reading the guards and filling the gaps behind them. Offensively the Lions will need to protect Matt Stafford better, and Stafford himself has to play a better game. He was inconsistent against the 49ers, and at times seemed to feel pressure that wasn't really there. The running game will now be left in the hands of Maurice Morris, who did well last season when Jahvid Best was experiencing double turf toe later in the year.
So, how will the Leos respond? Do they get worked up, rally the troops, and get after it? Or will they fold up their tents if the Falcons score early? Based on what they did in Dallas and against Minnesota, I'd say the Lions will put up a fight until the end. They had better be prepared to do just that, because much like the San Francisco game this is going to come down to the wire.
I don't expect that will be the case.
The Lions know they have to stop Michael Turner. They did a very bad job of filling gaps and working against the trap and counter plays of the 49ers. Rest assured that the Lions likely were drilled on the diagnosis and disruption of those types of plays this week, as the Falcons like to work those too. The linebackers were filling the wrong gaps, so watch for them to take a more careful approach to reading the guards and filling the gaps behind them. Offensively the Lions will need to protect Matt Stafford better, and Stafford himself has to play a better game. He was inconsistent against the 49ers, and at times seemed to feel pressure that wasn't really there. The running game will now be left in the hands of Maurice Morris, who did well last season when Jahvid Best was experiencing double turf toe later in the year.
So, how will the Leos respond? Do they get worked up, rally the troops, and get after it? Or will they fold up their tents if the Falcons score early? Based on what they did in Dallas and against Minnesota, I'd say the Lions will put up a fight until the end. They had better be prepared to do just that, because much like the San Francisco game this is going to come down to the wire.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Three games down, three wins up.....
What can we take away from the Lions game against the Vikings, other than the victory? Well, there are several things that need to happen.
1. The Lions are officially now a "good" team. Reason? Good teams find a way to win, even when they don't play well. Certainly there were players who did well, such as Stafford, Pettigrew and Calvin. But overall this wasn't a well played game, particularly by the offense. No running game, questionable pass blocking, and certainly the play calling in the first half was nothing to write home about.
2. The Lions need to make a decision on Jason Fox, quickly. His not being available is hurting the team, mostly because both Gosder Cherilus and Jeff Backus aren't playing as well as they should be. Granted, both of them are not 100% healthy, with Gos trying to overcome the long term effects of microfracture surgery on his knee, and Backus having suffered the torn pec muscle early in camp. Corey Hilliard is the only backup tackle we have, and he can't play two spots at once. Either put Fox on the Injured Reserve list and sign a veteran to help, or get his butt on the field of play to get him into football shape.
3. When CJ is being single covered, just throw him the ball. No reason to look for someone else, just get him the ball. Both Kansas City and Minnesota tried to single cover Calvin, and he made them pay almost everytime that the ball went his way. There were times in yesterdays game that the Vikings were single covering CJ, but the Lions didn't throw the ball to him. Take my advice, and take advantage of the mistakes being made by the defense...just get CJ the ball.
4. Matthew Stafford can take a hit, it seems, and will be fine. He took some shots yesterday, but bounced right back up, which was a welcome sight to Lions fans. Despite not getting sacked in the first two games, he did take some hits. However, yesterday he was getting pounded.
5. And last, but not least, what the Hell is the OC for Minnesota thinking? With a 20-0 lead going into the second half, how can you run Adrian Peterson just four times in the entire 30 minutes? How can you give the ball to Toby Gerhardt on 4th and 1? WHY would you give ANYONE the ball there, and not kick the field goal? Minnesota fans are steaming, and rightfully so. They had the game won, and gave the Lions a gift, making numerous mistakes in the second half, both on the field and on the sidelines.
Just remember Lions fans, the Vikings LOST that game more than the Lions winning it. But, in the end, it end it was the Lions who did what was needed to win the game. And for those of us who cheer on the Honolulu Blue and Silver clad team, that's all that matters now.
1. The Lions are officially now a "good" team. Reason? Good teams find a way to win, even when they don't play well. Certainly there were players who did well, such as Stafford, Pettigrew and Calvin. But overall this wasn't a well played game, particularly by the offense. No running game, questionable pass blocking, and certainly the play calling in the first half was nothing to write home about.
2. The Lions need to make a decision on Jason Fox, quickly. His not being available is hurting the team, mostly because both Gosder Cherilus and Jeff Backus aren't playing as well as they should be. Granted, both of them are not 100% healthy, with Gos trying to overcome the long term effects of microfracture surgery on his knee, and Backus having suffered the torn pec muscle early in camp. Corey Hilliard is the only backup tackle we have, and he can't play two spots at once. Either put Fox on the Injured Reserve list and sign a veteran to help, or get his butt on the field of play to get him into football shape.
3. When CJ is being single covered, just throw him the ball. No reason to look for someone else, just get him the ball. Both Kansas City and Minnesota tried to single cover Calvin, and he made them pay almost everytime that the ball went his way. There were times in yesterdays game that the Vikings were single covering CJ, but the Lions didn't throw the ball to him. Take my advice, and take advantage of the mistakes being made by the defense...just get CJ the ball.
4. Matthew Stafford can take a hit, it seems, and will be fine. He took some shots yesterday, but bounced right back up, which was a welcome sight to Lions fans. Despite not getting sacked in the first two games, he did take some hits. However, yesterday he was getting pounded.
5. And last, but not least, what the Hell is the OC for Minnesota thinking? With a 20-0 lead going into the second half, how can you run Adrian Peterson just four times in the entire 30 minutes? How can you give the ball to Toby Gerhardt on 4th and 1? WHY would you give ANYONE the ball there, and not kick the field goal? Minnesota fans are steaming, and rightfully so. They had the game won, and gave the Lions a gift, making numerous mistakes in the second half, both on the field and on the sidelines.
Just remember Lions fans, the Vikings LOST that game more than the Lions winning it. But, in the end, it end it was the Lions who did what was needed to win the game. And for those of us who cheer on the Honolulu Blue and Silver clad team, that's all that matters now.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Two games in......
So, Lions fans, we are now two games into the season, and the team is looking pretty good. However, they are far from perfect. The Tampa Bay game was closer in score than it actually was on the field. Dumb penalties was the story of that game, as was the domination of the Detroit defense versus the power running game of the Buccaneers. Despite making mistakes, the Lions were able to come out of the searing heat in Florida with a victory. Their first home game of the season against Kansas City was a laugher, but there are things that the team still needs to address. Foremost among these items is dropped passes. The Lions receivers need to hang onto the ball better. While Stafford's numbers are very good, they could be much better if these players focus on the task at hand. There is also some concern with the inconsistent running game the team has had. While there was some level of success against Tampa Bay, and the Lions did score twice on the ground against the Chiefs, there is no rhythym to the ground attack. Detroit cannot count on its ground game to eat up clock or control the tempo of a game, and that is a concern. I don't think it relates directly to the backs or the line, I believe it's a combination of the two.
Now, on to the good news. Matt Stafford is having a strong season, building on his excellent pre-season performances. To date the Lions QB has not suffered a sack, much to the credit of the offensive line and receivers, as well as the quick release Matt has. However, he has throw a couple picks that should not have happened, particularly the one against the Chiefs. Matt has to learn to either take a sack, or give up the play and throw the ball away. Defensively, the back seven that was thought be a potential problem actually has done fairly well. DeAndre Levy seems to still be adjusting to his new position on the outside, but is still making plays. Justin Durant and Stephen Tulloch have done well, and as a unit these three will continue to get better as they get settled into their roles. Bobby Carpenter is doing a good job as the teams fourth linebacker, brought in for special packages. The secondary is vastly improved, that much is clear. Amari Speivey is quite comfortable as the teams "other" safety, and Eric Wright is playing well and consistently. Chris Houston was a key re-signing in the off-season, and hopefully keeps up the level of his performances. The defensive line is still playing strong and getting to the quarterback to force mistakes.
To date, though head coach Jim Schwartz will tell you they aren't perfect, the Lions have been pretty good. Penalties were greatly reduced in game two, and the team isn't giving up a bunch of points. What the Lions need to work on is playing against an offense with speed, like that of the Chiefs. The Chiefs used misdirection and pre-snap movement to get the Lions confused and run with some success before Jamaal Charles sufferened his ACL tear. The Lions also have to be better on third down conversion effieciency. To date, they have successfull converted only 7 of 26 attempts to get the first down. Good teams win by having the advantage in turn over ratios, and by converting third down plays into first and tens.
But, it's still early....and things are looking very, very promising.
Now, on to the good news. Matt Stafford is having a strong season, building on his excellent pre-season performances. To date the Lions QB has not suffered a sack, much to the credit of the offensive line and receivers, as well as the quick release Matt has. However, he has throw a couple picks that should not have happened, particularly the one against the Chiefs. Matt has to learn to either take a sack, or give up the play and throw the ball away. Defensively, the back seven that was thought be a potential problem actually has done fairly well. DeAndre Levy seems to still be adjusting to his new position on the outside, but is still making plays. Justin Durant and Stephen Tulloch have done well, and as a unit these three will continue to get better as they get settled into their roles. Bobby Carpenter is doing a good job as the teams fourth linebacker, brought in for special packages. The secondary is vastly improved, that much is clear. Amari Speivey is quite comfortable as the teams "other" safety, and Eric Wright is playing well and consistently. Chris Houston was a key re-signing in the off-season, and hopefully keeps up the level of his performances. The defensive line is still playing strong and getting to the quarterback to force mistakes.
To date, though head coach Jim Schwartz will tell you they aren't perfect, the Lions have been pretty good. Penalties were greatly reduced in game two, and the team isn't giving up a bunch of points. What the Lions need to work on is playing against an offense with speed, like that of the Chiefs. The Chiefs used misdirection and pre-snap movement to get the Lions confused and run with some success before Jamaal Charles sufferened his ACL tear. The Lions also have to be better on third down conversion effieciency. To date, they have successfull converted only 7 of 26 attempts to get the first down. Good teams win by having the advantage in turn over ratios, and by converting third down plays into first and tens.
But, it's still early....and things are looking very, very promising.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
So far, so good.....sort of.
So, after three pre-season games in the 2011 year, here's what we know.
1. Matt Stafford is the real deal. Despite missing 19 games out of 32 with injuries these past two years, he is looking tremendous. 77% completion, 5 TDs.....all coming against number one defenses. I questioned the pick when it was made, but no longer. I was simply wrong about the guy. Here's to hoping he makes it through the season healthy.
2. The offensive line is doing a great job protecting the quarterbacks. That is the reason the passing game will be Detroit's bread and butter, more so than the play of Matt Stafford, this coming season. Now that's all they have to do is keep it up throughout the season.
3. The Lions desperately need to establish a running game, or else teams are going to eventually learn how to disassemble the passing game. It is the one thing that most concerns me throughout this pre-season, and will continue to do so in the regular season. Their running game hasn't even been adequate.
4. The Detroit defensive line is just incredibly good. Ndamukong Suh is picking up right where he left off. I hope Nick Fairley is taking notes on the sidelines about how to become a destructive force in your rookie year, because that's how it's done. Pure aggression and the will to dominate. Add KVB to the mix and I can say that the Lions D-line, with its starters and depth, are the best in the NFL. Nobody has this much talent, this deep, in their front four.
5. Derrick Williams was given another chance, and has dropped it. Time for him to go. I'd prefer the Lions keep Maurice Stovall or Rashied Davis, or both. At least they can play special teams effectively.
6. The loss of Mikel LeShoure to injury could be bigger than any of us realize. He was going to be the player most responsible for eating up the clock in a close game down the wire. Nobody else has stepped into that role, and the Lions need someone to do so.
7. Willie Young could turn out to be a 7th round GEM. He has impressed me these past two pre-seasons with his play at defensive end. I liked the pick when it happened, and I like it even more now. He has great speed off the edge, and has added some muscle to his frame. Hopefully he'll continue to add some moves to his arsenal.
Finally, regarding Tom Kowalski...RIP, Killer......was universally loved and respected by colleagues and fans alike. Even if you didn't agree with his take on things, you had to respect the man for his humor and his dedication to covering what was a pretty sad sack franchise for years. His loss is a shame, and proof that life isn't fair. He will be missed.
1. Matt Stafford is the real deal. Despite missing 19 games out of 32 with injuries these past two years, he is looking tremendous. 77% completion, 5 TDs.....all coming against number one defenses. I questioned the pick when it was made, but no longer. I was simply wrong about the guy. Here's to hoping he makes it through the season healthy.
2. The offensive line is doing a great job protecting the quarterbacks. That is the reason the passing game will be Detroit's bread and butter, more so than the play of Matt Stafford, this coming season. Now that's all they have to do is keep it up throughout the season.
3. The Lions desperately need to establish a running game, or else teams are going to eventually learn how to disassemble the passing game. It is the one thing that most concerns me throughout this pre-season, and will continue to do so in the regular season. Their running game hasn't even been adequate.
4. The Detroit defensive line is just incredibly good. Ndamukong Suh is picking up right where he left off. I hope Nick Fairley is taking notes on the sidelines about how to become a destructive force in your rookie year, because that's how it's done. Pure aggression and the will to dominate. Add KVB to the mix and I can say that the Lions D-line, with its starters and depth, are the best in the NFL. Nobody has this much talent, this deep, in their front four.
5. Derrick Williams was given another chance, and has dropped it. Time for him to go. I'd prefer the Lions keep Maurice Stovall or Rashied Davis, or both. At least they can play special teams effectively.
6. The loss of Mikel LeShoure to injury could be bigger than any of us realize. He was going to be the player most responsible for eating up the clock in a close game down the wire. Nobody else has stepped into that role, and the Lions need someone to do so.
7. Willie Young could turn out to be a 7th round GEM. He has impressed me these past two pre-seasons with his play at defensive end. I liked the pick when it happened, and I like it even more now. He has great speed off the edge, and has added some muscle to his frame. Hopefully he'll continue to add some moves to his arsenal.
Finally, regarding Tom Kowalski...RIP, Killer......was universally loved and respected by colleagues and fans alike. Even if you didn't agree with his take on things, you had to respect the man for his humor and his dedication to covering what was a pretty sad sack franchise for years. His loss is a shame, and proof that life isn't fair. He will be missed.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Detroint Lions 2011 Pre-Season Review: Game 1 vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Well folks, football finally arrived in downtown Detroit. It arrived in the exact fashion we anticipated, with Matthew Stafford going to Calvin in the end zone, and with the defensive line creating turnover opportunities for the secondary. Despite the fact that many projected starters and stars were watching from the sidelines due to injuries, the Lions dominated the Bengals from start to finish, winning 34-3.
OK, OK, I know....it's only pre-season. The year the Lions went winless in the regular season, they were perfect in the pre-season. Yes, we all know that. What we also know is that this roster, this coaching staff and this front office is COMPLETELY different than that which poisoned and embarrassedour town back in 2008. Some observations from the game:
Amari Spievey now looks the part at safety, and should be the likely starter next to Louis Delmas. This is not a slam on Erik Coleman, but Spievey is faster and is likely to be better in coverage due to his experience as a college cornerback. Spievey showed excellent awareness, and was all over the field.
Derrick Williams was getting accolades from the coaching staff for his strong play during camp practices. However, as has been the case since he was drafted, Williams fails to impress during the games. And sorry Derrick, but that's where the money is made in the NFL. Williams dropped the first two passes thrown to him, and in this town that's not going to endear you to the fanbase. Already chat rooms and Lions fan forums are ripping him for his "stone hands". Maybe Derrick should take up boxing instead.....
The Detroit running game looked absolutely anemic. Aaron Brown was the best of the rest beyond Jahvid Best. With an offensive line that featured a backup at left tackle and a still somewhat ailing right tackle, it's no wonder the running game suffered somewhat. But those excuses won't fly in the regular season. Good teams find a way to get it done. Understandably, Mike Bell and Jerome Harrison were not in the Lions training camp less than a week before the game, so the playbook was significantly reduced when they were in the game. Also, Scott Linehan keeps things pretty vanilla in the pre-season, which is fine. Keep things simple and make sure the players can execute those style of plays. If they can't, there's no reason to believe they'll do better in a more complex setting.
I suspect that over the course of the next couple weeks, things will start to fall into place more for the other new players on the squad. Stephen Tulloch and Justin Durant certainly didn't pop out at you while watching the game. It is expected they'll get more field time in the next game against Cleveland, and it's expected that Coach Schwartz will begin having them play at their projected regular season spots, instead of this potpourri mix he's using right now. Tulloch belongs in the middle, Levy and Durant on the outside. He knows it, we know it, everybody knows it.
Lastly, the play featuring Ndamukong Suh body slamming Andy Dalton.....not excuseable. If the same thing had been done to Matt Stafford by someone on the Bengals defense, Lions fans may have stormed the field with torches and pitchforks. I understand that Suh is a very strong, very aggressive player. But you also have to be smart and aware. The ball was well out of Dalton's hands by the time Suh picked him up off the ground. I, as much as anyone, don't want the game watered down (I'm being nice by calling it that) anymore than it has been, but at the same time I don't want players hurt on plays such as this. More plays like that will make Ndamukong Suh the target of opposing players and officials alike, and he will be flagged when others won't be. Play the game, play it hard, play it to the whistle. Throw aside offensive linemen and find the ball. But don't be stupid or unaware during the process.
OK, OK, I know....it's only pre-season. The year the Lions went winless in the regular season, they were perfect in the pre-season. Yes, we all know that. What we also know is that this roster, this coaching staff and this front office is COMPLETELY different than that which poisoned and embarrassedour town back in 2008. Some observations from the game:
Amari Spievey now looks the part at safety, and should be the likely starter next to Louis Delmas. This is not a slam on Erik Coleman, but Spievey is faster and is likely to be better in coverage due to his experience as a college cornerback. Spievey showed excellent awareness, and was all over the field.
Derrick Williams was getting accolades from the coaching staff for his strong play during camp practices. However, as has been the case since he was drafted, Williams fails to impress during the games. And sorry Derrick, but that's where the money is made in the NFL. Williams dropped the first two passes thrown to him, and in this town that's not going to endear you to the fanbase. Already chat rooms and Lions fan forums are ripping him for his "stone hands". Maybe Derrick should take up boxing instead.....
The Detroit running game looked absolutely anemic. Aaron Brown was the best of the rest beyond Jahvid Best. With an offensive line that featured a backup at left tackle and a still somewhat ailing right tackle, it's no wonder the running game suffered somewhat. But those excuses won't fly in the regular season. Good teams find a way to get it done. Understandably, Mike Bell and Jerome Harrison were not in the Lions training camp less than a week before the game, so the playbook was significantly reduced when they were in the game. Also, Scott Linehan keeps things pretty vanilla in the pre-season, which is fine. Keep things simple and make sure the players can execute those style of plays. If they can't, there's no reason to believe they'll do better in a more complex setting.
I suspect that over the course of the next couple weeks, things will start to fall into place more for the other new players on the squad. Stephen Tulloch and Justin Durant certainly didn't pop out at you while watching the game. It is expected they'll get more field time in the next game against Cleveland, and it's expected that Coach Schwartz will begin having them play at their projected regular season spots, instead of this potpourri mix he's using right now. Tulloch belongs in the middle, Levy and Durant on the outside. He knows it, we know it, everybody knows it.
Lastly, the play featuring Ndamukong Suh body slamming Andy Dalton.....not excuseable. If the same thing had been done to Matt Stafford by someone on the Bengals defense, Lions fans may have stormed the field with torches and pitchforks. I understand that Suh is a very strong, very aggressive player. But you also have to be smart and aware. The ball was well out of Dalton's hands by the time Suh picked him up off the ground. I, as much as anyone, don't want the game watered down (I'm being nice by calling it that) anymore than it has been, but at the same time I don't want players hurt on plays such as this. More plays like that will make Ndamukong Suh the target of opposing players and officials alike, and he will be flagged when others won't be. Play the game, play it hard, play it to the whistle. Throw aside offensive linemen and find the ball. But don't be stupid or unaware during the process.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Detroit Lions 2011 Free Agency activities
Good day, Lions fans. The Lions have been enjoying a great deal of positive press as the year has progressed toward the NFL season, and there's a reason for it. The Detroit coaching staff, scouts and front office have positioned the team such that they are but a few pieces away from being a fearful roster.
However, there are still those pieces to consider.
The Lions have taken their first steps in free agency to strengthen the roster. It is anticipated that the Lions will cut veteran wide receiver Bryant Johnson. Johnson has been a disappointment since coming here from Arizona, and despite his statements that he was never truly given a chance to contribute, Lions fans know the truth. Bryant Johnson was the 2010 version of Bill Schroeder, another former Lions free agent signing that had trouble catching the ball when it was thrown to him. Based on the Lions second round selection this year of Titus Young, it should come as no surprise to Bryant Johnson that he was going to be released, particularly when one considers his $3.2 million cap number. As a third or fourth receiver, that number is hardly acceptable.
Rather than sit still, it has been recently reported that the Lions signed former Bear wide out Rashied Davis to a one year deal. The 32 year old receiver and special teams performer was disappointed the Bears chose not to pursue him more aggressively and wasn't willing to wait. Davis is definitely more sure handed than Bryant Johnson, and is a more versatile receiver.
The Lions, as most of you probably know, began their signings of free agents from other teams by inking linebacker Justin Durant, formerly of the Jaguars, to a two year deal. Durant has the ability to play inside or outside, and it is likely the Lions signed him to play outside in their defense. That means that DeAndre Levy still has the starting spot at the Mike for the Honolulu Blue and Silver. It remains to be seen if the Lions are still pursuing former Titans MLB Stephen Tulloch. Word is that the Lions have dropped their offer, but that could be a smoke screen.
What the Lions still have to address is the cornerback spot. With the Nnamdi Asomugha sweepstakes being played out between the Jets, 49ers and current front runner Houston Texans, it is believed that the "second tier" corners like Antonio Cromartie, Jonathan Joseph and Chris Houston are waiting for him to ink a deal and set the market price. Expect players like AC and JJ to go for about $7 to $8 million per season, with Houston getting about 75-80% of that. Other players at the position the Lions could consider are former Redskin Carlos Rogers, former Brown Eric Wright, or the young and inexperienced Usama Young, formerly of New Orleans.
I personally believe the Lions need to make an honest (but not over the top) effort and offer to Chris Houston, first and foremost. He is familiar with the defense, is respected in the locker room, and played better than most give him credit for. While he is widely viewed around the league as a solid number two corner, he would still represent the best CB on our roster if he's signed tomorrow. While Joseph or Cromartie may be considered a small step above Houston on the talent depth chart for CBs available this year, the fact that Houston would likely come with experience and a lower price tag is enough for me to feel he should be the priority, particularly given the short off-season the team will be experiencing.
Let's hope the Lions are working hard behind the scenes to make something happen, and turn 2011 into a season every Lions fans will remember as the year they turned a corner and earned the respect they are finally starting to get around the nation.
However, there are still those pieces to consider.
The Lions have taken their first steps in free agency to strengthen the roster. It is anticipated that the Lions will cut veteran wide receiver Bryant Johnson. Johnson has been a disappointment since coming here from Arizona, and despite his statements that he was never truly given a chance to contribute, Lions fans know the truth. Bryant Johnson was the 2010 version of Bill Schroeder, another former Lions free agent signing that had trouble catching the ball when it was thrown to him. Based on the Lions second round selection this year of Titus Young, it should come as no surprise to Bryant Johnson that he was going to be released, particularly when one considers his $3.2 million cap number. As a third or fourth receiver, that number is hardly acceptable.
Rather than sit still, it has been recently reported that the Lions signed former Bear wide out Rashied Davis to a one year deal. The 32 year old receiver and special teams performer was disappointed the Bears chose not to pursue him more aggressively and wasn't willing to wait. Davis is definitely more sure handed than Bryant Johnson, and is a more versatile receiver.
The Lions, as most of you probably know, began their signings of free agents from other teams by inking linebacker Justin Durant, formerly of the Jaguars, to a two year deal. Durant has the ability to play inside or outside, and it is likely the Lions signed him to play outside in their defense. That means that DeAndre Levy still has the starting spot at the Mike for the Honolulu Blue and Silver. It remains to be seen if the Lions are still pursuing former Titans MLB Stephen Tulloch. Word is that the Lions have dropped their offer, but that could be a smoke screen.
What the Lions still have to address is the cornerback spot. With the Nnamdi Asomugha sweepstakes being played out between the Jets, 49ers and current front runner Houston Texans, it is believed that the "second tier" corners like Antonio Cromartie, Jonathan Joseph and Chris Houston are waiting for him to ink a deal and set the market price. Expect players like AC and JJ to go for about $7 to $8 million per season, with Houston getting about 75-80% of that. Other players at the position the Lions could consider are former Redskin Carlos Rogers, former Brown Eric Wright, or the young and inexperienced Usama Young, formerly of New Orleans.
I personally believe the Lions need to make an honest (but not over the top) effort and offer to Chris Houston, first and foremost. He is familiar with the defense, is respected in the locker room, and played better than most give him credit for. While he is widely viewed around the league as a solid number two corner, he would still represent the best CB on our roster if he's signed tomorrow. While Joseph or Cromartie may be considered a small step above Houston on the talent depth chart for CBs available this year, the fact that Houston would likely come with experience and a lower price tag is enough for me to feel he should be the priority, particularly given the short off-season the team will be experiencing.
Let's hope the Lions are working hard behind the scenes to make something happen, and turn 2011 into a season every Lions fans will remember as the year they turned a corner and earned the respect they are finally starting to get around the nation.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
M2K's 2011 Detroit Lions NFL Draft Review
For those who don't know me, I go by the handle m2karateman, and I occasionally write articles for Lionbacker, a Detroit Lions fan website. http://www.lionbacker.com/
I am also a frequent poster within the forum of that most excellent website, and I also occasionally post within the forums of Footballs Future as well.
So, with this blog I'd like to take a closer look at the Detroit Lions newest additions in the NFL Draft. There are many Lions fans who are disappointed with the outcome of the draft, while many "experts" out there have the opposite opinion. The Lions actually have Mel Kiper and Todd McShay agreeing on something, the idea that the Lions had one of the best drafts among the NFL teams this year. I don't know whether that is scary good or scary bad.
First, let's take a look at what the draft is. The draft is a tool used to create parity year over year between the teams in the NFL. That parity is created when teams who didn't compete with higher quality teams (playoff teams) get to choose first among the talent available from the college ranks. T-A-L-E-N-T. It's about the procurement of talent, not the filling of positions that lack talent.
If and when the occasion comes about that the best talented available also fills a dire need, there is much to rejoice. In that regard, one could look at a team like Arizona this year. They certainly had other more desperate positional needs other than cornerback, but Patrick Peterson was the best talent available. Cincinnati, who chose just before Arizona, took wide receiver A.J. Green. He filled both a need and could have been considered the best talent available. Everyone knows Cincinnati was in the market for a quarterback, and could have reached for one there at the fourth pick. They didn't and chose the talent over the position.
When the Lions took Nick Fairley, they chose to stick with their draft board, which rated him as the highest available talent. Not the highest talent at a certain position, but the highest talent, period. They did the same in the second round when they selected Titus Young. Many fans felt that the Lions should have used that pick to take a cornerback like Brandon Harris, or a linebacker like Martez Wilson, which would have filled greater needs. Some folks support this idea by stating that it would be easier to sign a slot receiver in free agency than it will be to get a starting corner or linebacker. The same philosophy is being used for the Lions decision to move up and get Mikel LeShoure with the 57th pick in the draft. We could sign any number of power backs, like Michael Bush, in free agency. The problem with this theory is that not every player that a team targets in free agency gets signed. Remember that the Lions had wanted to go after Takeo Spikes a couple seasons ago, and many thought he would be pleased to come here. He went to San Francisco. Albert Haynesworth was reputed to be coming to Detroit, he went to Washington. It doesn't always work out. However, in the draft, you are guaranteed to have exlusivity with the player you select. No other team can get him from you unless you choose to trade him and get some form of compensation. There is no guaranteed exclusivity in the dealings with an unrestricted free agent.
Now, it may be that you don't agree that Titus Young or Mikel LeShoure, or even Nick Fairley were the best talents available when the Lions made those individual selections. We really won't know that answer for at least a couple seasons. But given the current regimes success in the past couple drafts, I'd give them the benefit of the doubt. One cannot argue with the idea that the Lions certainly added talent and have made the roster stronger with their picks. While defensive tackle wasn't a glaring need, Fairley was at one time considered to be in the mix as the top overall pick. He displayed uncanny athletic skills in the Bowl Championship game, almost single handedly taking over the game. Titus Young and Mikel LeShoure do fill some areas of concern, not dire need. Most Lions fans agreed that there was a need for a third quality receiver, and that a power back would be a nice compliment to the speed of Jahvid Best. Many folks felt that those positions would be filled in later rounds, not in the second round. But if you think about it, do you want those positions filled with just a body, or with a talent? What if Burleson gets hurt again? What if Best has further injury issues? Now, the Lions have a talent to fall back on rather than just someone who happens to have made the roster by default.
I have written an article reviewing the Lions picks in this past draft, and have graded each selection and also gave an overall grade. It is currently posted on the home page of Lionbacker. If you are a Detroit Lions fan, I would encourage you to review the website if you are not already familiar with it. Read the article and let me know how you feel about it. You don't have to agree with me, because it's all subjective. But I'd like to be after many, many years of watching how NOT to add talent via the draft (The Dark Ages, also referred to as the Millen Years) I think I understand and agree with how Martin Mayhew and Jim Schwartz are going about adding talent. And in my humble opinion, they're doing about as good a job as we could ask for. They aren't going to "hit" on every pick, but they aren't trying to force square pegs into round holes, either.
I am also a frequent poster within the forum of that most excellent website, and I also occasionally post within the forums of Footballs Future as well.
So, with this blog I'd like to take a closer look at the Detroit Lions newest additions in the NFL Draft. There are many Lions fans who are disappointed with the outcome of the draft, while many "experts" out there have the opposite opinion. The Lions actually have Mel Kiper and Todd McShay agreeing on something, the idea that the Lions had one of the best drafts among the NFL teams this year. I don't know whether that is scary good or scary bad.
First, let's take a look at what the draft is. The draft is a tool used to create parity year over year between the teams in the NFL. That parity is created when teams who didn't compete with higher quality teams (playoff teams) get to choose first among the talent available from the college ranks. T-A-L-E-N-T. It's about the procurement of talent, not the filling of positions that lack talent.
If and when the occasion comes about that the best talented available also fills a dire need, there is much to rejoice. In that regard, one could look at a team like Arizona this year. They certainly had other more desperate positional needs other than cornerback, but Patrick Peterson was the best talent available. Cincinnati, who chose just before Arizona, took wide receiver A.J. Green. He filled both a need and could have been considered the best talent available. Everyone knows Cincinnati was in the market for a quarterback, and could have reached for one there at the fourth pick. They didn't and chose the talent over the position.
When the Lions took Nick Fairley, they chose to stick with their draft board, which rated him as the highest available talent. Not the highest talent at a certain position, but the highest talent, period. They did the same in the second round when they selected Titus Young. Many fans felt that the Lions should have used that pick to take a cornerback like Brandon Harris, or a linebacker like Martez Wilson, which would have filled greater needs. Some folks support this idea by stating that it would be easier to sign a slot receiver in free agency than it will be to get a starting corner or linebacker. The same philosophy is being used for the Lions decision to move up and get Mikel LeShoure with the 57th pick in the draft. We could sign any number of power backs, like Michael Bush, in free agency. The problem with this theory is that not every player that a team targets in free agency gets signed. Remember that the Lions had wanted to go after Takeo Spikes a couple seasons ago, and many thought he would be pleased to come here. He went to San Francisco. Albert Haynesworth was reputed to be coming to Detroit, he went to Washington. It doesn't always work out. However, in the draft, you are guaranteed to have exlusivity with the player you select. No other team can get him from you unless you choose to trade him and get some form of compensation. There is no guaranteed exclusivity in the dealings with an unrestricted free agent.
Now, it may be that you don't agree that Titus Young or Mikel LeShoure, or even Nick Fairley were the best talents available when the Lions made those individual selections. We really won't know that answer for at least a couple seasons. But given the current regimes success in the past couple drafts, I'd give them the benefit of the doubt. One cannot argue with the idea that the Lions certainly added talent and have made the roster stronger with their picks. While defensive tackle wasn't a glaring need, Fairley was at one time considered to be in the mix as the top overall pick. He displayed uncanny athletic skills in the Bowl Championship game, almost single handedly taking over the game. Titus Young and Mikel LeShoure do fill some areas of concern, not dire need. Most Lions fans agreed that there was a need for a third quality receiver, and that a power back would be a nice compliment to the speed of Jahvid Best. Many folks felt that those positions would be filled in later rounds, not in the second round. But if you think about it, do you want those positions filled with just a body, or with a talent? What if Burleson gets hurt again? What if Best has further injury issues? Now, the Lions have a talent to fall back on rather than just someone who happens to have made the roster by default.
I have written an article reviewing the Lions picks in this past draft, and have graded each selection and also gave an overall grade. It is currently posted on the home page of Lionbacker. If you are a Detroit Lions fan, I would encourage you to review the website if you are not already familiar with it. Read the article and let me know how you feel about it. You don't have to agree with me, because it's all subjective. But I'd like to be after many, many years of watching how NOT to add talent via the draft (The Dark Ages, also referred to as the Millen Years) I think I understand and agree with how Martin Mayhew and Jim Schwartz are going about adding talent. And in my humble opinion, they're doing about as good a job as we could ask for. They aren't going to "hit" on every pick, but they aren't trying to force square pegs into round holes, either.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)