Are The Lions Ready To Bite?

Added on Aug 25, 2010 by Scott in

NFL

The Detroit Lions have won exactly two regular season games since 2008. Needless to say, they are very much in need of a football renaissance in Motor City. Could 2010 be the year they make their move? While the odds are still stacked against them, an insurgence of free agents and young talent the last two offseasons could be enough to shed their image as the laughing stock of the NFL.

Second-year quarterback Matthew Stafford is making strides in training camp. Fourth-year wide receiver Calvin Johnson is determined to bounce back after a disappointing 2009. Newly acquired tight end Tony Scheffler adds another weapon to the passing attack. Rookie running back Jahvid Best is opening eyes with his versatility and speed. A revamped offensive line hopes to solidify itself.

On defense, ex-Titans defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch brings a veteran presence and legit pass rushing threat to the front four. Former Browns defensive tackle Corey Williams will provide a needed inside push. Second overall pick Ndamukong Suh is poised to make an immediate impact. Free agents Landon Johnson and Chris Houston have starting experience.

The pieces are in place for head coach Jim Schwartz and offensive coordinator Scott Linehan to make some noise. If Stafford can take the next step and the new faces live up to expectations, the Lions are capable of reaching between six and eight wins. Will it happen? Probably not. A brutal schedule includes games versus the NFC East and AFC East, so the road will not be easy. Then again, it’s the NFL – stranger things have happened.