ALLEN PARK -- It's quite clear with the punishment handed down to Lions team president Tom Lewand that the NFL is making a statement. The 30-day suspension and $100,000 fine for violating the NFL personal conduct policy combine for a harsh penalty.

No one should drink and drive, we all know that. But Lewand pled to a lesser charge and was fined less than a $1,000 going through the judicial system.

He admitted guilt and that he had made a huge mistake. He had the support of team owner William Clay Ford.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell met with Lewand on July 16 and this was the punishment he accessed. Goodell has made an effort to police the players so he could not overlook the Lewand situation. The announcement was made early Friday evening.

Lewand, who was worked so hard to rebuild this team, can be nowhere near it from Aug. 25 until Sept. 24. He'll miss the first two games, including the home opener.

This will not just be a lesson learned for Lewand, but also for team officials throughout the league. It would seem that is exactly Goodell's strategy.