Continuity is key to winning in the NFL especially when it comes to coaching staffs that are trying to turn around a franchise. You know, like the Lions. Not only did the Lions’ staff have to get to know the players last season, they had to adapt to working with each other.

Prepping for the 2010 season, they’ll be two steps further along the way. They know which players they want to keep and which they don’t. They also understand each other and won’t have to explain systems and philosophies to each other. That is all down.

Quarterbacks coach Jeff Horton has reportedly left to take over as offensive coordinator at Minnesota. He won’t be replaced. Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan will continue to work with the quarterbacks. He was hands-on last season even with Horton there and that won’t change.

The only other key change is that special teams coordinator Stan Kwan was fired and Danny Crossman brought in from the Carolina Panthers. Crossman had excellent results with the Panthers’ special teams in 2008, then struggled in 2009 which is why he was fired. Kwan’s special teams improved somewhat from a dreadful start, but it wasn’t enough to keep his job.

This week the Lions’ coaching staff is in Mobile, Ala., coaching the North team in preparation for Saturday’s Senior Bowl. It’s a good chance for them to get to know some of the nation’s seniors. It’s an opportunity they relish.
— PAULA PASCHE