This bye week could not have come at a better time for the banged-up Lions. They are 1-5 heading into the final 10 games of the season. Coach Jim Schwartz is optimistic that most of the injured will return to play in time for the Nov. 1 home game against the winless St. Louis Rams. He won’t be specific about injuries, but it’s hardly a secret that the Lions will be in much better shape if quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Calvin Johnson are back from knee injuries. The offense just isn’t the same without them.

Schwartz is keeping the team busy this week. They were scheduled for a walk-through today and will practice Thursday and Friday. They’re looking to get back to basics and correct mistakes. They won’t put any focus on the Rams until next week.
— PAULA PASCHE