Detroit Lions Season Preview

After becoming the first team ever to finish 0-16 last year, the Detroit Lions are determined to put that behind them. With new head coach Jim Schwartz leading this team and Matt Millen out of Motown, the Lions look to get at least one win. The Lions did make quite a few changes in the off-season and seem to really be coming together nicely.

Of course, the Lions selected quarterback Matthew Stafford first overall in the draft and Jim Schwartz has yet for it to be known if he will start him right away or let veteran Daunte Culpepper run the offense. I believe Schwartz shouldn't rush Stafford and let Culpepper play a few games to see how things work out. Culpepper has looked pretty good in training camp and has shed a few pounds. Plus, he will be playing under offensive coordinator Scott Linehan this season, the same Scott Linehan that Culpepper thrived under while in Minnesota with Randy Moss. While he doesn't have Randy Moss now, he has Calvin Johnson who is emerging as one of, if not the best, receiver in the National Football League.

The Lions defense has made many upgrades this off-season. Probably the biggest upgrade is with the linebackers by adding veterans Julian Peterson and Larry Foote. Combine these two guys with 4th year starter Ernie Sims, and you have a pretty dangerous linebacking core.

Detroit's secondary was the worst in the NFL last season, bringing in a grand total of 1 interception. Well, expect that number to increase as basically the whole secondary has been revamped with 2nd round pick Louis Delmas from Western Michigan playing safety and Anthony Henry, who was acquired in a trade from Dallas for quarterback Jon Kitna , starting at corner. Also new to the secondary is cornerback Phillip Buchanon, who had a solid season last year with two interceptions one of which was returned for a touchdown.

Still the biggest concern that remains for this team is the offensive line. The Lions hope second year player Gosder Cherilus will continue to improve and be a solid right tackle. Veteran Jeff Backus remains at left tackle and Dominic Raiola will remain at center. Jon Jansen was brought in this off-season and could possibly fight for a position for guard against Stephen Peterman and Damien Cook. There hasn't been much done with this offensive line which concerns me a bit, as they were one of the worst in the league last season.

Although the Lions have made many improvements this off-season, I don't see them really competing in the NFC North or making the playoffs. Their offensive line may be a real problem and will hold them back from being a legit playoff contender.

Season Prediction: 5-11

Dan Suspeck

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/209413-detroit-lions-football-2009-season-preview