Its no surprise that the Detroit Lions had a miserable season in 2005. Over the last five seasons, 2004 was their best with six wins. In 2005, they finished 5-11, which is around average for them. Their worst season recently was in 2001 when they had just two wins. Are the Lions doomed for another season of 2-5 wins? Is there any reason for hope? Key Additions One of the major additions for the Lions is actually their new coach. Mike Martz is going to change the Lions for the better. Even if their talent level remains the same, they will be a tougher team under Martz. The Lions wont become the St. Louis Rams, but they should improve and no longer be a doormat on the way to the win column for the opposing team. Quarterback The quarterback position is always a sore point with the Lions. To improve their QB situation, the Lions signed Jon Kitna, Josh McCown and Shaun King. Whos going to start? Right now, this position is a toss up between backup-level quarterbacks. Kitna has the most talent of the three, but hes not someone that will bring a team to the next level. Actually, maybe he willwe are talking about the Lions. Still, just saying that the Lions are average at the quarterback position is an improvement. Receiving The receiving unit of the Lions is one disappointment after another. The lone bright spot is Roy Williams. They signed Corey Bradford. He should bring a veteran experience to the team that will help the younger receivers grow. The receiving unit is still a bit green. Martz needs these guys to step it up.Right now, the receivers are average at best. Ground Game The problem with the ground attack is there isnt one. In 2004, Kevin Jones looked like he was going to give the Lions a consistent running attack. He has 1,133 yards in his rookie season. However, last season he plummeted to just 664 yards. Was his rookie season a fluke or did he have sophomore growing pains? He figures to get plenty of carries this year, so we will definitely find out. Defense and Special Teams The defense for the Lions is below average. Their weak point is the secondary. Any team with a good passing attack is going to eat up the Lions. They are only slightly better on the front line. The Lions are going to have trouble getting to opposing quarterbacks and stopping teams from scoring. Perhaps their best defense would be a good offense. The special teams are good. Jason Hansen is returning for a 15th season and Nick Harris is an excellent punter. If Eddie Drummond can stay healthy, the special teams will be above average. 2006 Prediction The Lions head into 2006 with a series of questions to answer. Their new head coach is also taking over the role as offensive coordinator. Martz has the ability to call plays and the Lions offense might surprise. The problem is Matrz doesnt have a very solid QB with big play ability to work with. Kitna is the closest to this, but he will become an interception machine if forced in a heavy passing game. The Lions have 11 games against middle of the pack or better teams this season. Its not a stretch to say they will be 5-11. |
