Lions Lowdown

Warren Sapp not a fan, Suh defends himself and says he's not a dirty player

2012-01-31T21:49:00.003-05:00

If Ndamukong Suh had stepped up in his second season, would there be so much discussion abut the Lions’ defensive tackle? After finishing as defensive rookie of the year in 2010, Suh’s sack and tackle numbers were down.

Also he missed two games due to a suspension. For a defensive tackle, stats aren’t everything, but Suh didn’t seem like the dominant player that he was as a rookie.

At the Super Bowl on Tuesday, NFL Network analyst Warren Sapp had plenty to say about Suh, according to quotes from the Lions’ web site.

“He’s never been a hip thrower and a true pass rusher, in the sense. He was just overpowering and throwing people out of the way. People didn't understand that he was just going to go through them, that is the way he rushes,’’ Sapp said.

The seven-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle also ripped on Suh for not working hard enough last off-season.

“From his first year to second year, he hasn’t worked on anything. You are looking at the same guy rushing in the same fashion that he was when he first got in the league. I understand that you’ll do it your first year because no one has seen it. Second year, you better come show me something, son, you came with the same bull rush,’’ Sapp said. “All I have to do (as a offensive lineman) is give myself a nice base and get ready to go.’’

During the NFL lockout last offseason, Suh routinely tweeted while traveling around the world. The Lions players held eight days of workouts on their own and Suh showed up only for the final day when the NFL Network cameras were there.

Sapp also insinuated perhaps Suh’s endorsements were getting in the way of his preparation.

Suh is traveling this offseason too only it seems he’s making an effort to repair his image after The Stomp on Thanksgiving that cost him the two-game suspension.

His last stop was on ESPN2’s Face to Face on Tuesday night. This was recorded last week before Sapp made his comments.

Hannah Storm asked Suh about his reputation as a dirty player who tries to hurt other players.

“I would never hurt somebody because why would I want somebody to hurt me. Taking someone’s livelihood away and their opportunity to fend for their family and grow, for someone to say that, it’s kind of outrageous,’’ Suh told Storm in an interview taped at the University of Nebraska, Suh’s alma mater.

While he was suspended there was some chatter that perhaps he would be required to take anger management classes. Turns out it was just chatter.

“It’s funny to me. Like I said, I don’t have issues. (I am not) beating up people in bars. It just doesn’t make sense to me. I think people try to make their own opinion and I think it’s a story line. It’s a great story line,’’ Suh said.

“I understood this year that a lot of people seeing me as a dirty player is a good story line to have and that’s what it is to me. It’s kind of comical to me to keep saying something and really don’t have any substance behind it,’’ he added.

He said he knows in his heart of hearts he’s not a villain.

Suh was fairly guarded with Storm, but he did let out one moslty insignificant nugget. He said he has a photographic memory which helps him when watching film and preparing for games.

Up next for Suh? Would be surprised if he doesn’t show up in Indianapolis this week.

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Lions wide receivers invade Honolulu on scooters, courtesy of Calvin Johnson

2012-01-26T10:44:00.004-05:00

Perhaps one reason for their success is that the Lions group of wide receivers are a close-knit bunch. This week they’re getting a little more bonding time in Honolulu courtesy of Calvin Johnson.

Johnson was voted to the Pro Bowl, but won’t play because of a sore Achilles. Still he went to Hawaii and brought his wide receiving teammates with him, on a private jet no less. Johnson is picking up the tab for the group. What an incredibly nice gesture.

The photos from Hawaii (via Twitter) of the gang on scooters make it look like they may be having a little fun.

While Calvin’s a little on the quiet side, Nate Burleson more than makes up for it. Follow their adventures on Twitter @Nate13Burleson.

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Will Matthew Stafford be the Lions' version of Red Wings' savior Steve Yzerman?

2012-01-24T13:42:00.006-05:00

The strangest question hit me out of the blue the other day: Is Matthew Stafford the Lions’ equivalent of Red Wings’ Hall of Famer Steve Yzerman?

We really won’t know the answer to that for several years. Yzerman won three Stanley Cups so Stafford has some catching up to do.

Still, there are plenty of similarities early on.

Yzerman was the fourth overall pick in the 1983 draft and immediately was on the Wings’ roster. He was smart, a good leader and the hardest worker — always.

Covered the Wings and Yzerman for many years later in his career. The day in 2003 that the Red Wings beat writers told him we’d nominated him for the Bill Masterton Memorial award he was profusely sweating while riding an exercise bike, don’t think he even slowed down when we asked for comments. It just seemed fitting. He won the award after coming back from radical knee realignment surgery that could have ended his career. The award is given to the NHL player who best represents perseverance, sportsmanship and a dedication to hockey.

Stafford, of course, is early in his career. Already he’s had a chance to show how tough he is — that win over Cleveland in his rookie season was the first major indication. He truly got up off the turf on the sidelines with a dislocated shoulder, bolted past the medical personnel and back onto the field to win the game. Since then repeatedly he’s been knocked around and gets up and goes back to work. He had a tough sophomore season playing in only three games due to injuries, but came back in 2011 and played them all. He’s a nominee for the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year which will be awarded on Super Bowl Eve.

Like Yzerman, Stafford is smart, hard-working and very much a student of the game. His teammates respect him, even at a young age. He’s a natural leader. Stafford is just 23. Yzerman first became captain of the Red Wings when he was 21.

Both started when their teams were in the dumps. Yzerman joined a group not so fondly known around town as the Dead Wings. In 1982-83, the season prior to Yzerman’s arrival, they were 21-44-15. In his fourth season they lost in the Stanley Cup Conference Finals to the Oilers. In Yzerman’s 14th season he won his first Stanley Cup with the Red Wings.

Stafford was drafted following the 0-16 season in 2008. He had just turned 21 but had little trouble handling the immense expectations placed on his shoulders because he was the No. 1 overall pick.

It’s difficult to compare NFL and NHL playoffs, they are such different animals. In Stafford’s third season he got the Lions to the playoffs. More will be expected each year. If Stafford and the Lions create a dynasty of sorts like the Red Wings did (three Stanley Cups in six years) with Yzerman, then the comparisons will be stronger.

It should be interesting to watch.

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Stafford deserved trip to Pro Bowl over Newton

2012-01-23T11:07:00.003-05:00

Matthew Stafford is not going to the Pro Bowl, while Carolina Panthers rookie Cameron Newton will be in Hawaii on Sunday filling in for the Giants’ Eli Manning who dropped out to prepare for the Super Bowl.

It’s a shame for Stafford who was the third Pro Bowl alternate. He deserved better. Many think he should have been in the Pro Bowl over Eli Manning in the first place.

Between Stafford and Newton the numbers aren’t even close.

Matthew Stafford had 5,038 passing yards, (only the fourth quarterback in the history of the NFL to pass 5,000 yards) 41 touchdowns, 16 interceptions, a 97.2 passer rating and a 63.5 completion percentage.

Cam Newton finished with 4,050 passing yards. 21 touchdowns, 17 interceptions, a 84.5 quarterback rating and a completion percentage of 60.

The Pro Bowl voting was done before the Lions (10-6) had made it into the playoffs, but they were on their way and the Panthers who finished 6-10 were not.

Stafford could have joined his teammate Calvin Johnson at the Pro Bowl.

A look at Twitter shows how upset Lions fans are today. Who could blame them?

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Classic Killer ramblings from Lions' 1990 win at Green Bay

2012-01-18T16:05:00.002-05:00

In doing research for my book I was going through clips of the 1990 Lions’ season when one paragraph jumped off the page, it is a classic from our friend Tom “Killer” Kowalski.

The column was written after the Lions had just beaten the Packers 24-17 at Green Bay (yes, you read that right). It was two degrees with a wind chill of minus-33. A perfect day at Lambeau Field. Barry Sanders ran for 133 yards, Rodney Peete threw for 184.

The Lions tried to give it away with miscues — fumble, interceptions, a missed field goal, you name it. Detroit was down 17-10 at the end of the third and came back with two fourth-quarter touchdowns to win.

So Kowalski was telling fans not to feel guilty if a depression came over them in the second half because they thought for sure the Lions would lose.

This is the graph as it appeared in The Oakland Press on Dec. 23, 1990: “It’s conditioning. When the Lions go into a tailspin, we’ve been conditioned for 30 years to believe they’ll never pull it out. To watch a team, or career, crash and burn does not alarm us. We’re numbed by it. Oh, missed the playoffs again. Ah, another No. 1 Flop.’’

Pure Killer.

My book, “100 Things Lions Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die” will be published on Sept. 1. One of the chapters is about Tom.

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Lions GM Mayhew faces new set of challenges in this off-season

2012-01-17T13:42:00.002-05:00

What’s tougher turning an NFL roster upside down or just fine-tuning it?

Lions general manager Martin Mayhew expects it to be the latter.

Remember this is the guy who took the job on an interim basis early during the 0-16 season in 2008. He’s been to the depths and responded well through the draft, trades and free agency.

Now it’s a different beast. He’s built a 10-6 team that made it to the playoffs, but knows there’s plenty of work to do. He has key players to re-sign, free agents to explore and a draft to prepare for.

“We took a big step obviously, when you look at the six teams in the NFC (playoffs) we lost to four of them. We’ve got some work to do to get to take the next step, but it was a big step for us this year,’’ Mayhew said. “I was impressed with the effort of our players, I thought our coaches did a great job coaching those guys.

“I thought it was good to get in the playoffs, it was good experience for us even though we didn’t go beyond that first week. I think that experience being in that game this year is going to help us next year be even better,’’ Mayhew added.

Perhaps the Lions can take something else into next season. When it was all said and done, the Lions finished with the same playoff record as the Packers at 0-1.

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Stafford named comeback player of year by PFW/PFWA

2012-01-16T15:49:00.002-05:00

Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady may be in the mix for post-season honors, but Lions’ quarterback Matthew Stafford has not been forgotten.

Stafford was named the NFL comeback player of the year Monday as voted on by Pro Football Weekly and the Professional Writers of America. He is also up for the Associated Press Comeback player which will be announced the night before the Super Bowl.

After playing in just three games in the 2010 season due to shoulder injuries, Stafford played his first full 16-game season in 2011 and become one of only four quarterbacks ever to surpass 5,000 passing yards.

Stafford finished the season completing 63.5 percent of his passes for 5,038 yards, 41 touchdowns and 16 interceptions.

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Old buddies Fisher and Schwartz to face off in 2012 season

2012-01-13T15:33:00.002-05:00

Can’t circle the date yet because there are no dates set for the 2012 NFL season. But we do know the St. Louis Rams will play the Lions at Ford Field. With today's announcement that Jeff Fisher will coach the Rams, that game just got a little more interesting.

For one thing Fisher’s son, Brandon, is as assistant to the Lions’ defensive coaching staff.

However, it’s the Fisher-Jim Schwartz match-up that will be the most intriguing. Fisher and Schwartz worked together for 10 seasons with the Tennessee Titans. Schwartz was defensive coordinator there for eight seasons.

During Schwartz’s first season in Detroit, his first as an NFL head coach, there was rarely a press conference where he didn’t make some reference to Fisher and the Titans. He learned a lot from Fisher and put it to good use this first three years with the Lions.

Both are competitive guys, but the bet here is that the post-game handshake will be friendly.

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Mayhew: Organization needs to work on handshake thing

2012-01-12T14:39:00.003-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Since Lions general manager Martin Mayhew is media-shy, today (Thursday) was the first time the Lions beat writers had a chance to ask him about the handshake incident between Jim Schwartz and 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh following the Oct. 16 game.

He was not asked about blowing off a handshake with Kansas City Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli at the Ford Field elevators following the Lions’ win over the Chiefs on Sept. 18. But Mayhew brought it up anyway.

“As an organization we haven’t really mastered that whole post-game handshake thing,’’ Mayhew said.

“We’re still working on that. We’ll get that right next year ... Maybe we’ll do some drills on that,’’ he added.

Too bad Mayhew only talks to the media three or four times a season. He’s insightful and can be extremely witty. He just doesn’t seem to like the spotlight.

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Nick Fairley grades out at incomplete for rookie season

2012-01-11T11:22:00.003-05:00

If you were grading Nick Fairley’s rookie season it would have to be an incomplete. He played in just 10 games and was never totally healthy.

The first-round pick out of Auburn (13th overall) broke his foot early in training camp and never could put it totally behind him.

We saw flashes of what he could be with a few big plays. In the regular season game at New Orleans he was a man possessed. It’s where he notched his only sack of the season. Unfortunately for him he re-injured his foot in the first quarter and missed the rest of that game.

It was especially tough for a rookie to miss training camp since there had been no off-season workouts due to the NFL lockout.

“Nick missed all of training camp and then it was just sore throughout the season. I have had a lot of experience with guys that have had broken feet, screws put in, and things like that. They have had the same experience. It probably won’t be for a few months now in the offseason of rest before that thing will be in his rearview mirror,’’ coach Jim Schwartz said.

“But I think we also saw enough when he was healthy that we know we have a really good player there and a guy that can affect the game and make plays for us. I think it was good that way. I think we feel very strongly about him physically. I think it is very difficult not having players on the field.’’

When he was drafted he was not pegged as an immediate starter since the Lions had Ndamukong Suh and Corey Williams. The plan was to rotate Fairley, Sammie Hill and Andre Fluellen in and out of the tackle position.

For that Dec. 4 game at the Saints, Suh was serving the first of a two-game suspension. Fairley’s foot was doing better but it was Sammie Hill who earned the start.

Hill, who often gets overlooked, had a good strong season including a big game in the Jan. 1 loss at Green Bay.

First-round picks are expected to jump in and contribute right away. It just didn’t happen that way for Fairley. If he’s healthy he could be a huge boost to the defensive line which didn’t live up to the hype this year.

(Paula Pasche covers the Lions. Follow her on Twitter @PaulaPasche. Read her Lions Lowdown blog at oplions.blogspot.com. Get Lions news delivered directly to your phone by texting the keyword "Lions" to 22700. Msg & Data Rates May Apply. Text HELP for help. Text STOP to cancel.)

No doubt in Best's mind that he'll return next season

2012-01-09T20:51:00.002-05:00

Jahvid Best, remember him?

After missing the final 10 regular season games with a concussion, the Lions running back is fully expecting to be back next season.

“Right now I’m just focusing on getting back on the field. Right now that means staying in shape and getting ready for when the off-season program picks up,’’ Best said on Monday. “I’ll be ready to go with the rest of the guys.’’

The running game was certainly the weak link on the offense with the absence of Best. Also no one knows how good the run game could’ve been if rookie Mikel Leshoure had not torn his Achilles’ tendon in training camp.

Best said he hasn’t taken any concussion tests lately since his season ended when he was placed on injured reserve. He is staying in shape though.

He said he has no doubt he’ll be back next season. A healthy Best could make a difference.

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Two blown calls complicate matters for Lions

2012-01-08T16:27:00.002-05:00

Two big games for the Lions and two blown calls by officials.

On Saturday night in the 45-28 loss at New Orleans, after Willie Young sacked Drew Brees, Justin Durant picked up the ball and the only thing that prevented him from getting into the end zone for a touchdown was an inadvertent whistle from an official who must have thought it was an incomplete pass.

That was in the second quarter and could have changed the complexion of the game. The Lions lost 45-28 so seven more points would not have been there difference. But it could have changed how the game was played from that point on.

The week before in Green Bay Titus Young clearly caught a touchdown pass with both feet in-bounds — on the replay it wasn’t even close. He was definitely in. Yet it was ruled incomplete. Coach Jim Schwartz was out of challenges due to two previously botched calls so the touchdown could not be reviewed.

Usually winning teams get the calls. Apparently, the Lions haven’t reached that point yet.

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5 things Lions must do to beat Saints

2012-01-06T10:08:00.002-05:00

Five things the Lions (10-6) must do to beat the Saints (13-3) at the Superdome at 8 p.m. on Saturday.

1. The defensive line has to step up and put more pressure on Drew Brees. They will have a full, healthy group unlike when they lost to the Saints on Dec. 4. Brees is a handful and the Lions’ secondary will need help from the line to help contain him.

2. The secondary, which had its worst game of the season last week at Green Bay, has to shake it off and get back to playing like they did against Phili Rivers and the Chargers. They’ll get help with the return of Louis Delmas.

3. Matthew Stafford, aka Mr. 5,038, has to keep it up. Over the last four games he’s averaged 377 passing yards per game and has thrown 14 touchdown passes against just two interception. If he can pass for 377 yards against Saints he gives Lions a good chance.

4. The Lions have found success in the air, but it would only help if they can have some kind of running game against the Saints. Kevin Smith is healthy so that should help.

5. Attitude. These Lions take nothing for granted, several of them lived through the hell that was the 0-16 season in 2008. They’re hungry. They have something to prove to themselves and the world.

Prediction: Saints 42, Lions 38.

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What makes Matthew Stafford so special?

2012-01-06T09:27:00.002-05:00

Other than his arm strength, accuracy, football smarts, work ethic and poise under pressure, there is something else that makes Matthew Stafford special.

The 23-year-old Lions quarterback is a likable and humble guy.

Wide receiver Nate Burleson chatted about it this week, saying Stafford doesn’t walk around with his chin up. He’s one of the guys, he fits right in. It’s a little thing, but it’s important that a quarterback be liked by his teammates. That hasn’t always been the case with Lions quarterbacks — remember Joey Harrington.

While passing for 5,038 yards in just his first full season sets him apart, Stafford let the praise roll off his shoulders saying it was a team effort.

There is no bigger deal in this town right now than Stafford as the Lions head to their first playoff game since 1999. Reports on Twitter Thursday night said he was eating dinner out and approached by kids and their moms for pictures and not only complied but he was smiling and laughing while doing so.

When asked last week about being recognized out and about, he said it was all part of the deal. He appreciates the kind words offering him good luck.

When the Lions drafted Stafford with the first overall pick in 2009, they did their homework on him. They did a good job.

Matthew Stafford is the complete package.

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Lions a healthy group with Calvin Johnson back at practice

2012-01-05T11:59:00.001-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Calvin Johnson was back at practice today (Thursday) after sitting out on Tuesday and Wednesday with a sore Achilles. There really hasn’t been much doubt that he would play on Saturday night in New Orleans, but it was a good sign that he was back at work.

And amazingly, all the other Lions were practicing too even Kevin Smith and Tony Scheffler who collided on Wednesday.

This is the healthiest the Lions have been for ages and the timing couldn’t be better. They will need all healthy bodies to give them a chance against the Saints who have not lost at the Superdome all season.

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Don't count the Lions out against the Saints

2012-01-04T10:11:00.002-05:00

ALLEN PARK — There are people out there who are writing off the Lions’ playoff chances against the New Orleans Saints on Saturday night.

Yes, it was just a month ago they lost 31-17 to the Saints, but this is a different Lions team now.

They’ll have three starters on defense that they didn’t have that game — Ndamukong Suh, Louis Delmas and Chris Houston.

Plus since the 11 penalties that cost them 107 yards in that game, they have become more disciplined especially when it comes to after-the-whistle situations.

Drew Brees is on fire and the Saints haven’t lost at the Superdome this season.

But Matthew Stafford and the Lions’ offense have found a rhythm in the last few games. Stafford has averaged 428 passing yards in the last three games with a total of a dozen touchdowns and just two interceptions. They were 5-3 on the road this season.

I’m not saying it’s a lock, but the Lions should not be overlooked. They could win this game.

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Stafford takes aim at Tebow — or does he?

2012-01-03T18:26:00.001-05:00

If you think Matthew Stafford is nervous about his first playoff game, you don’t know the kid. He can’t wait.

He knows full well that playoffs are what separates good quarterbacks from great quarterbacks. In his explanation he may have been referring to a certain Denver Broncos quarterback, although he never said Tim Tebow’s name.

“Win, that’s what you have to do that’s what people are judged by this time of year, quarterbacks. And a fun thing for me is this offense, a lot of it’s on me getting able to throw the ball around, that’s awesome,’’ Stafford said on Tuesday.

“I’d rather have it that way then go out there and throw eight passes in a game and have us win. it’s fun to go out there and sling it around and see what happens,’’ he added.

In the Broncos’ loss to Kansas City Sunday, Tebow was six of 22 for 60 yards and an interception.

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Lions mostly healthy; Calvin and Titus out

2012-01-03T12:11:00.001-05:00

ALLEN PARK — The Lions are about the healthiest they have been all season. At practice today (Tuesday) only Calvin Johnson and Titus Young weren’t working. Both were on the field without helmets. Johnson sat out practice most of last week with a sore Achilles, but had a career game on Sunday with 244 reception yards.

Safety Louis Delmas (knee) returned to practice. He’s missed five games and practiced on a limited basis on Friday.

Defensive tackle Corey Williams (hip) and cornerback Aaron Berry (shoulder) didn’t play on Sunday but were at practice today.

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Brees expects another hard-fought game against the Lions

2012-01-03T09:59:00.001-05:00

It’s been just four weeks since the Lions played at New Orleans and lost to the Saints.

Even though the Saints won 31-17, it was close for a while and the Lions earned respect especially from quarterback Drew Brees.

“I know how dangerous they are and how explosive they can be and defensively they are able to create turnovers and get after the quarterback,’’ Brees said on NBC SportsTalk.

“So we are going to have to do a good job of staying balanced, protect the passer, run the football and possessing the ball,’’ Brees added.

It’s the first playoff game for the Lions since 1999. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. Saturday on NBC.

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Officiating at best questionable in Lions' loss to Packers

2012-01-02T11:27:00.004-05:00

To the Lions’ credit no one blamed the officials following the 45-41 loss at Green Bay on Sunday.

Detroit got robbed by some lousy officiating, but they had their chances otherwise too. Detroit held a 41-38 lead with 2:44 remaining and allowed the Packers to convert two third downs. One occurred when Ndamukong Suh jumped offside. (Count me as one surprised this hasn’t been discussed more.)

Still early in the game Jim Schwartz had to use two challenges on a fumble that was reversed on tight end Tony Scheffler and a fumble by Stefan Logan during a return.

So Schwartz couldn’t challenge when the officials called Titus Young out of bounds on what was clearly a touchdown catch. Video replay was conclusive he had both feet down. If the officials would have ruled it a score, it would have automatically been reviewed. Schwartz had a difference of opinion on that.

“Every play this year they always rule in favor of touchdowns knowing it’s going to get reviewed. I don’t have any challenges left. The worse challenge was the first one that I had to challenge because you only get two and the whole thing with replay is to get it right. We didn’t get it right,’’ Schwartz said after the game.

Another really questionable call came in the fourth quarter when Calvin Johnson was called for offensive pass interference. Matthew Stafford connected with Scheffler four plays later for a touchdown.

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5 things Lions must do to beat Packers

2011-12-31T09:23:00.001-05:00

Here are five things the Lions (10-5) must do to beat the Packers (14-1) at Green Bay at 1 p.m. on Sunday.

1. Play like they mean it. After all the talk this week, expect to see the Lions go at full-tilt trying to get first win at Green Bay since 1991. Yes, they’re in playoffs, but first they have another task at hand.

2. If it’s really windy the Lions have to depend on their running game along with short passes and maybe a reverse here and there. Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan is usually pretty good at mixing it up, there’s no reason to think he won’t do the same on Sunday.

3. Matthew Stafford has been on a roll with nine touchdown passes and zero interceptions in the last three games, all of them wins. He’s never played at Lambeau (he’s been injured the previous two years) so you’ve got to think he might want to show Packer fans what he’s made of.

4. No matter if it’s Aaron Rodgers in at quarterback or backup Matt Flynn the defensive line has to step up and put pressure on them. The secondary will be playing without Louis Delmas yet again. They need help up front from the line.

5. Special teams must play well. The wind and cold can cause issues at Lambeau. The forecast is for 32 which should help Jason Hanson unless it's violently windy.

Prediction: Lions 28, Packers 21.

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Lions' Drew Stanton honored for community work

2011-12-30T15:02:00.001-05:00

Quarterback Drew Stanton is a busy man and the Lions have rewarded him by naming him the Robert Porcher Man of the Year to recognize his community service.

He is one of 32 finalists, one from each team, who receivers $1,000 for his foundation and is a finalist for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award.

Stanton played in high school at Farmington Hills Harrison and then went to Michigan State.

In his fifth season in the NFL and with the Lions, he has established the High 5ive Foundation to support programs at Special Olympics and Children’s Miracle Network. He’s been involved in both since playing at MSU.

Stanton donates 40 tickets for every Lions' home game through the Lions' CATS (Caring Athletes Ticket Service) for Kids program. He’s also involved in the Dearborn Animal Shelter.

In 2010 and again in 2011, the High 5ive Foundation assisted Orchards Children's Services over the holidays. He also hosted the 2010 and 2011 Cystic Fibrosis Golf Outing in Michigan to help raise money for Cystic Fibrosis. He and his foundation ran the tournament in Lansing raising more than $50,000 a year.

Stanton, his wife and family continue to serve Thanksgiving dinner at the Detroit Rescue Mission on Thanksgiving Day following the Lions' annual Thanksgiving Day game.

He’s heavily involved in the Lions’ team community activities too.

The winner of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award will be announced live on FOX before Super Bowl XLVI on Feb. 5.

Snapping streaks part of the Lions' turn-around

2011-12-30T10:22:00.000-05:00

The Lions, who haven’t won on the road against the Packers since 1991, are 3.5-point favorites on Sunday at Lambeau Field.

That has something to do with the fact that Aaron Rodgers and the other Packers’ starters might not play the whole game.

How much does that streak mean to the Lions?

“It will be a nice one to get off our resume, but you know, whether it’s the Green Bay Packers or whoever — it’s the next game on our schedule and that’s the most important thing,’’ coach Jim Schwartz said. “It’s hard to hold Matt Stafford accountable for something that happened in 1992, 93, 94, 95, and so on. That doesn’t mean a whole lot. It’s more important what we’re doing this week, what we do in practice yesterday, today, tomorrow, and how we play on Sunday — not what happened 20 years ago. But it would be nice to get it off our resume so to speak.”

I think there are two reasons they’d like to snap that streak. One they want a win to get to 11-5 for the season and to earn the fifth seed.

Two, they get tired of answering questions that really had nothing to do with them and this would put an end to that.

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Houston returns to practice; Delmas, Calvin Johnson remain out

2011-12-29T12:10:00.001-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Cornerback Chris Houston arrived to practice late, but he ran out on the field and took part in drills. He was still wearing a soft cast on his left hand. He told reporters on Wednesday that he would play on Sunday in Green Bay. His knee, which he injured on Thanksgiving, is not 100 percent but close enough.

Calvin Johnson (Achilles) didn’t practice for the second straight day but he expects to play Sunday.

Safety Louis Delmas (knee) has not returned to practice. Corey Williams (hip) was out for the second straight day.

Defensive end Willie Young (ankle) who sat out on Wednesday was back at it.

Rookie Nick Fairley, who practiced Wednesday but was seen limping afterward, was out on Thursday. He’s been in and out of practices all along dealing with the foot that he broke in training camp.

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Chris Houston sports cast on hand; Louis Delmas still out

2011-12-28T12:13:00.001-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Cornerback Chris Houston is sporting a cast on his left hand and didn’t practice today (Wednesday). It’s not a good sign for the depleted secondary heading into Green Bay on Sunday.

Safety Louis Delmas, who had a wrap around his right knee, also did not practice. He underwent minor surgery on an MCL tear on Dec. 17.

Defensive tackle Corey Williams (hip) did not practice and neither did defensive end Willie Young.

The Lions are preparing to play the Packers at 1 p.m. on Sunday. A win would give them the fifth seed in the NFC.

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Three scenarios could lead to fifth seed for Lions

2011-12-26T09:31:00.001-05:00

After the Packers beat the Bears on Sunday night, it appears there are three possibilities left for the Lions to get a fifth seed instead of a sixth as a wild-card playoff team. It’s down to the Lions and Falcons for the fifth and sixth seeds. All games are Sunday, Jan. 1, unless noted.

1. If the Falcons beat the Saints (tonight) AND Lions beat Packers AND Bucs beat Falcons.

2. If the Saints beat Falcons (tonight) AND Lions beat Packers.

3. If the Saints beat Falcons (tonight) AND Packers beat Lions AND Bucs beat Falcons.

It’s to the Lions advantage to be the fifth seed where they would likely face the winner of the Giants and Cowboys Sunday night. The Lions came back to win 34-30 at Dallas on Oct. 2. They didn’t play the Giants this season.

As the sixth seed they’d likely face the Saints. The Lions lost 31-17 at New Orleans on Dec. 4.

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Playoff-bound Lions not done yet

2011-12-25T13:16:00.002-05:00

Oh, there was some whooping and hollering after the Lions dismissed the Chargers with a dominating 38-10 win on Christmas Eve.

Shoot, it was Christmas Eve and the team had just given itself the best possible present — a trip to the playoffs.

Still, it’s a focused bunch.

They have one more regular season game at Green Bay next Sunday.

“It was alot of excitement (in the locker room), i don’t think there was too many tears,’’ wide receiver Nate Burleson said.

“We gave the game ball to Mr. Ford. At the end of the day, we made the playoffs true. it feels good, true. Fans are excited, true. But we’re not done, we still have a long way to go. We’re in the tournament now, we might as well go for a championship,’’ Burleson added.

Next weekend’s games will determine whether the Lions are a fifth or sixth seed. While there are many scenarios, the Lions could lose at Green Bay and still be a fifth seed if the Packers beat the Bears tonight (Sunday), New Orleans beats the Falcons and the Bucs beat Atlanta.

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5 things Lions must do to beat Chargers

2011-12-23T16:10:00.001-05:00

Here are five things the Lions (9-5) must do to beat the San Diego Chargers (7-7) to clinch a wild-card playoff berth.

1. Throw the ball to Calvin Johnson. This is not rocket science. The Lions can win a game without getting the ball to him much (see win over Vikings). But they improve their chances of winning when they do (see win at Oakland).

2. Matthew Stafford must play like he did the final seven minutes at Oakland. The offensive line must continue to give him time.

3. The defensive line must get to quarterback Philip Rivers early and often especially with the Lions a little thin at defensive back. Safety Louis Delmas and cornerback Aaron Berry are doubtful.

4. Get points on the board early. Those comebacks make for good TV, but it could be much tougher against the Chargers.

5. Maintain the cool that has allowed the Lions to win nine games and be on the verge of the playoffs.

Prediction: Lions 28, Chargers 24

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Jim Schwartz: We're halfway there

2011-12-22T10:00:00.001-05:00

One of the best weekly NFL shows on TV is “Turning Point” on Versus. Hosted by Dan Patrick, he and Tony Dungy break down four of the most interesting games from the previous weekend.

The Lions win at Oakland was one of the featured games on Wednesday night. It will re-air tonight (Thursday night) at midnight. They break down big plays, show game clips and pick up audio from along the sidelines. Interesting stuff. They mix it with clips of the post-game press conferences. This week it’s a great look at the always humble Calvin Johnson. Also Matthew Stafford explains why he ran the ball on fourth-and-2.

Then at the very end of the show they show coach Jim Schwartz in the locker room giving out game balls. He tells the team great game, the usual stuff. Then he shouts, “We’re halfway there!”

That had me stumped for a minute. Halfway? They’ve won nine games.

Ah, but Schwartz breaks the season down into four quarters of four games each.

So in this final quarter they are 2-0, halfway to the goal of 4-0.

That’s how he’s conditioned the players to look at the season. Sure there’s one game at a time, but this quarter view seems to work for them. Remember last season they were 4-0 in the final quarter even though they had no shot at the postseason.

This season they opened 4-0, slipped to 2-2, slipped again to 1-3.

When they’re done with a quarter, they move on to the next hoping to redeem themselves. They’re doing a good job so far in this final quarter. One more win and they're in the playoffs.

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Six defensemen missing from practice

2011-12-21T12:05:00.001-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Defensively the Lions are still missing six players. Nick Fairley (foot), Louis Delmas (knee), Chris Harris, Kyle Vanden Bosch, Corey Williams (hip) and Don Carey didn’t practice Wednesday.

Fairley worked on Tuesday, the others didn’t.

It's possible Vanden Bosch is taking a second-straight rest day.

Long snapper Don Muhlbach was off Tuesday, but back at work on Wednesday.

The Lions play the San Diego Chargers at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve. A win would clinch a playoff berth.

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Long-snapper Muhlbach out, along with Delmas, Harris, others

2011-12-20T12:10:00.001-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Long snappers really aren’t missed until they’re not there. Don Muhlbach, the Lions’ long snapper, was not at practice today (Tuesday). It’s unknown if he’s injured and the Lions will not produce an injury report today.

Center Dominic Raiola was taking the long-snapping duties during practice.

Safety Chris Harris was on the sidelines, but not participating in practice. He was tested for a concussion during Sunday’s game but no results were released.

Safety Louis Delmas who had minor surgery Saturday to repair his torn MCL also did not practice.

CB Don Carey also did not practice.

DT Corey Williams (hip) was out along with Kyle Vanden Bosch who was likely taking a rest day.

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Predicting 10-6 finish for Lions ... How about you?

2011-12-20T11:08:00.001-05:00

What will be the Lions’ record on Jan. 2?

Before the season started, I predicted a 9-7 finish. I think I underestimated the Lions even though I assumed they would have Jahvid Best and Mikel Leshoure to boost the running game.

Took a lot of criticism for being a Pollyanna by a lot of anonymous folks who seemed to enjoy blasting me for my pick.

Now if the Lions lose the last two I’ll be right on the money.

I don’t think that will happen. I see a win on Saturday over the Chargers to get them into the playoffs.

Not sure what will happen in Green Bay, but it’d be tough to win there.

What are you thinking? 10-6? 9-7? 11-5?

Let me know.

You can make it anonymous if you’d like, but remember my name is on everything I write.

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5 things Lions must do to beat the Raiders

2011-12-17T16:02:00.002-05:00

Here are five things the Lions (8-5) must do to beat the Raiders (7-6) at Oakland on Sunday:

1. Get the ball to Calvin Johnson who was the target just four times in the win over Minnesota. He had three catches for 46 yards and the Lions won. But with one of the top receivers in the NFL, it seems getting Johnson the ball would be a priority.

2. Stop the run. The Raiders feature the NFL’s sixth best rushing offense led by Michael Bush and Darren McFadden (who will not play due to a foot injury). Conversely the Lions own the 27th best rush defense. Not a good ratio.

3. Defense should come out on fire like they did in the win over Minnesota on Sunday. Of course that was at Ford Field and this is on the road. Cliff Avril looked like a defensive end who was possessed. They need that attitude.

4. Matthew Stafford needs to continue the way he’s played the past two games when he has had just one interception. He’s a different player without the glove and splint. He has to prove he’s a big-game player.

5. Don’t look ahead. This is a huge game for the Lions’ playoff chances. They said all the right things during the week about one game at a time, but now they need to play that way.

Prediction: Lions 21, Raiders 17

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Linehan optimistic about return of Kevin Smith for Sunday

2011-12-15T14:27:00.002-05:00

Running back Kevin Smith, who has been dealing with a nasty high ankle sprain, was more active in Thursday’s practice than on Wednesday.

Smith missed last week’s game against the Vikings.

Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan seems confident Smith will be ready to go Sunday.

“Kevin’s practicing, he’s making progress ... We’re very positive about him being ready to go,’’ Linehan said.

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Six defensemen sit out Lions practice

2011-12-15T12:08:00.001-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Six Lions’ defensemen didn’t practice today (Thursday).

Missing from the practice field were Louis Delmas (knee), Eric Wright (hamstring), Justin Durant (hamstring), Nick Fairley (foot), Aaron Berry (shoulder) and Lawrence Jackson (thigh).

None were a surprise.

Coach Jim Schwartz repeated on Wednesday that if any of these injuries were thought to be long-term, the players would be placed on injured reserve.

However, it’s closing in on the time to make the decision who will be available at Oakland on Sunday. If Fairley can’t play, the return of Ndamukong Suh ensures the defensive line won’t be short at tackle.

If Delmas, Wright and Berry can’t play the secondary will again be short on bodies.

Running back Kevin Smith (high ankle sprain) was on the practice field, but didn’t participate in all the drills.

The Lions (8-5) play a key game in their playoff chase at 4 p.m. Sunday at the Oakland Raiders (7-6).

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Suh errs by not taking ownership of his mistakes

2011-12-14T16:52:00.003-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Ndamukong Suh is a little crazy if he thought he was going to walk back onto the Lions practice field and not have to answer any questions about his two-game suspension or car accident in Portland.

Crazy.

Suh seems to love the limelight. That’s great. He was after all the NFL’s second overall pick in 2010.

But with the spotlight, come the responsibilities.

At the podium after Wednesday’s practice he said he wanted to focus on the Oakland Raiders. He didn’t grasp the idea that he had to put the whole stomping incident behind him first.

He has not publicly spoken since immediately after the game when he came up with some story that he was trying to withdraw himself from a situation.

Wednesday was his chance and he blew it. He could have easily apologized to fans, admit he made a mistake and say it won’t happen again.

It’s a good philosophy to have whether you’re an NFL player or a plain Jane sports writer. If you make a mistake admit it, apologize for it and say it won’t happen again.

It’s pretty simple.

Suh is hurting his image by not owning up to his mistake.

It’s going to be hard to move on until he does so.

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Kevin Smith returns to practice but is limited; Chris Houston back

2011-12-14T12:05:00.002-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Running back Kevin Smith, who missed Sunday’s game, was at practice today (Wednesday), but wasn’t able to do much. He was doing balance drills on the sideline with a trainer following the stretch period.

Smith sustained a high ankle sprain on Thanksgiving.

Cornerback Chris Houston, who has missed the last two games with a sprained MCL, was back at practice. Also back was Nick Fairley who didn’t play Sunday after aggravating his foot injury in New Orleans.

Still missing were Louis Delmas (knee), Eric Wright (hamstring), Justin Durant (hamstring), Aaron Berry (shoulder) and Lawrence Jackson (thigh).

Defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch didn’t practice which is the norm on Wednesdays when he is given a rest.

The Lions (8-5) play at the Oakland Raiders (7-6) at 4 p.m. on Sunday. The Raiders are coming off two lop-sided losses — at Miami 34-14 and at Green Bay 46-16.

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Remembering Killer and the kids

2011-12-13T15:51:00.002-05:00

It’s a holiday tradition like no other in Keego Harbor. On Thursday night check out the Christmas fund-raiser to raise funds for Our Children’s Fund so local kids can have a terrific Christmas.

It was all started by Tom “Killer” Kowalski about a dozen years ago. We’re continuing it in his honor. It’s always a blast. If you’ve been before, you know that. If you haven’t been, check it out.

There will also be plenty of items to raffle included signed memorabilia from the Lions and Red Wings. Also, several local golf courses have chipped in with gift certificates. So bring your money.

It won’t be the same without Tom this year, but we can’t let the kids down.

Festivities start at 7. The Brewhaus is on Orchard Lake Road, just west of Cass Lake Road in greater downtown Keego.

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Stafford runs efficient offense in win over Vikings

2011-12-12T10:13:00.002-05:00

Overlooked a bit in the Lions’ 34-28 nail-biter of a win over the Vikings on Sunday was the performance of quarterback Matthew Stafford.

His numbers weren’t gaudy — 20 of 29 for 227 yards and a pair of touchdowns. His rating was a respectable 115.2.

Since his broken index finger has healed, he’s thrown just one interception and that was late in the loss at New Orleans when he was trying to make something, anything happen.

Stafford has been consistent saying he doesn’t care about his stats as long as they win.

“We need to play as good as we need to play to win every week,’’ Stafford said Sunday. “You know, that’s the way it is. Some games are going to be prettier than others. You look at the first-half stats of this one, we played well. We didn’t play as well as we could in the second half but we got the win.’’

The defense pitched in with two touchdowns — one on a fumble recovery and one on an interception return. In this win the defense was the story.

But the Lions can’t get to the playoffs without a well-oiled, smooth-running offense.

“I thought we made some big plays, we made some plays when we needed to, one third down to Titus (Young) for a long one, another third down that Titus caught a quick little slant and you know made a big play for us there,’’ Stafford said.

Stafford was pressured all day long by Jared Allen and the Vikings’ defensive line. But he hung in there and made smart decisions.

It seems like we’re seeing this offense grow up week after week. And even though he never made a big deal about it, Stafford is a much better quarterback now that his broken finger has healed.

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Back at it

2011-12-11T10:23:00.001-05:00

DETROIT — Been out most of this week for my Dad’s funeral. My Dad taught me football and took me to my first Lions game back at Tiger Stadium. He closely followed whatever team I covered so he had his eye on the Lions.

Thanks for your patience.

I’m back now, sitting in the press box at Ford Field waiting to talk to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell at 11, followed by Vikings at Lions.

Four more games to wrap up the season and it should be interesting.

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Kevin Smith, Sammie Hill will start; Houston, Delmas out

2011-12-04T19:50:00.001-05:00

NEW ORLEANS — Kevin Smith’s ankle is healed enough that he’s starting at running back tonight.

Not surprisingly Sammie Hill is getting the start at defensive tackle for Ndamukong Suh.

Chris Houston and Louis Delmas, who both have knee injuries and were doubtful for the game, are out.

Aaron Berry will start at cornerback with Chris Harris starting at safety.

Brandon McDonald (knee) is out along with Lawrence Jackson (thigh), Drew Stanton, Aaron Brown and Leonard Davis.

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5 things Lions need to do to beat the Saints

2011-12-03T09:00:00.001-05:00

Five things the Lions (7-4) must do to beat the Saints (8-3) at the Superdome on Sunday Night Football:

1. Pressure Drew Brees who looked almost unstoppable on Monday night in the win over the Giants. The Lions will miss Ndamukong Suh but they have to soldier on and perhaps it will give them additional resolve to get the job done. If they can’t get at it from the middle, Cliff Avril and Kyle Vanden Bosch will need to attack from the outside. If Brees has time, he’ll pick apart the Lions secondary.

2. Matthew Stafford, minus his gloves and finger splint, needs to have a solid ratio of touchdowns to interceptions. He’s thrown nine in last three games and won’t blame it on the finger. He needs to make better decisions.

3. Get the ball to Calvin Johnson. Yes, he’s mostly double- and triple-teamed but he must be a target. Getting Johnson heavily involved in the offense gives the offense a better chance.

4. Patched-up secondary must pull together. Chris Houston and Louis Delmas might sit out with knee injuries, so others must step up. Eric Berry could start at corner with Alphonso Smith at nickel. Chris Harris is expected to get the nod at safety. Here’s an interesting stat. John Wendling, who excels on special teams, is 4-0 as a starter going back to last season

5. Don’t let the bright lights be blinding. It’s the Lions first appearance on Sunday Night Football. Game time got moved to set up one of the NFL’s best matchups of the day in prime time. Keep the attitude, don’t get too caught up in the playoff ramifications.

Prediction: Saints 42, Lions 35

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Surprisingly, Suh's 2-game suspension stands

2011-12-02T16:53:00.001-05:00

A little surprised that Ndamukong Suh’s appeal of his two-game suspension was denied. I thought it was deserved, but just didn’t think it would stand.

Because the Lions defensive tackle missed almost the entire second half on Thanksgiving after being ejected, thought they might lop off one of the games. Of course, I’m sure they took that into consideration for the original two-game suspension.

Obviously there are those who think Suh needs to learn a lesson and one of them is Hall of Famer Art Shell who conducted the appeal process and made the final decision.

Perhaps next time Suh errs, he’ll be smart enough to stand up and admit it. I think that would have gone a long way in the way this situation was handled.

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Kevin Smith excited about chances to play Sunday

2011-12-01T13:53:00.003-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Lions running back Kevin Smith, who sprained his ankle in the Thanksgiving game, is optimistic after completing a full practice on Thursday.

“Every day it’s getting better so at this pace I’m excited,’’ Smith said.

He would not put a percentage on his chances of playing on Sunday night at New Orleans.

“Every day I got better, today is Thursday I was able to practice the full practice,’’ Smith said. “I feel good, it’s still an ankle sprain, but it’s football.’’

Smith has played in three games since he was re-signed by the Lions after Jahvid Best sustained his concussion that forced him out for the season.

Against Carolina he had 16 carries for 140 yards, four catches for 61 yards and three touchdowns (two rushing).

He got off to a good start against the Packers (seven carries for 36 yards and three catches for 21 yards before he had to leave the game with the ankle injury.

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Kevin Smith practices; still no Houston or Delmas

2011-12-01T12:07:00.002-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Lions running back Kevin Smith progressed on Thursday to participating in drills at practice. Smith, who injured his right ankle on Thanksgiving, was limited to stretches in Wednesday’s practice. He was active in the portion of practice open to the media.

Meanwhile it’s looking doubtful for Sunday at New Orleans for cornerback Chris Houston and safety Louis Delmas. Neither has practiced so far this week due to knee injuries. Cornerback Brandon McDonald (lower leg) who ran sprints along the sidelines in Wednesday’s practice, was not seen on Thursday.

Add defensive end Lawrence Jackson (thigh) to that list. Jackson could not play on Thanksgiving after his injury in the win over the Panthers.

Linebacker Doug Hogue, who was out with an illness on Wednesday, returned to practice on Thursday.

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Don't automatically assume that Fairley will start in Ndamukong Suh's spot

2011-11-30T12:24:00.003-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Even though Ndamukong Suh is appealing his two-game suspension, he’s expected to at least miss Sunday’s game at New Orleans.

Don’t automatically assume that rookie Nick Fairley, the first-round pick, will start in his place. Fairley’s development was slowed down early in training camp and lasted through the start of the season. He’s getting playing time, but hasn’t made a huge impact yet.

When asked about Fairley, coach Jim Schwartz was careful not to proclaim him the starter in place of Suh. In fact, Schwartz mentioned Sammie Hill, a fourth-round pick in 2009, in the same breath as Fairley.

Hill has more experience. Even though he was not ready he started in his rookie season because of lack of depth on the line

There’s a lot of Fairley fans out there — including a couple that named their dog Fairley (via Twitter) — and he will see playing time.

My hunch is that Hill will start.

Andre Fluellen will also move back inside after helping out at defensive end with a rash of injuries at that position.

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Three starters miss practice due to injury; Suh unable to practice during appeal

2011-11-30T12:07:00.004-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Cornerback Chris Houston and safety Louis Delmas, who both have knee injuries, missed the second straight day of practice today (Wednesday). Both were injured in the loss to Green Bay on Thanksgiving. Also missing was defensive end Lawrence Jackson who did not play Thursday due to a thigh injury.

Running back Kevin Smith, who injured his ankle in that game, was on the practice field briefly today (Wednesday) but just for stretches. Maurice Morris lined up with the starters.

Cornerback Brandon McDonald (lower leg) mostly was running sprints with trainers along the sidelines.

Even though Ndamukong Suh is appealing his two-game suspension, he is not allowed to practice. The Lions were given a roster exemption while Suh is out and signed DE Keyunta Dawson to fill in. He was at practice.

Also, the Lions made two practice squad moves today. WR Nate Hughes was placed on practice squad injured reserve and WR Marcus Harris was signed.

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Reports: Suh will appeal 2-game suspension

2011-11-29T14:45:00.001-05:00

It doesn’t seem to make sense that Ndamukong Suh would appeal his two-game suspension.

During this whole fiasco perhaps sensibility does not come into play.

Suh was notified by the NFL on Tuesday that he’s suspended without pay for the next two games. He cannot be present at the practice facility until he’s reinstated on Dec. 12.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter is reporting that Suh has been encouraged to appeal the suspension by the NFLPA and commissioner Roger Goodell and he plans to do so.

In the NFL’s statement earlier today, they said any appeal will be expedited and will take place before this weekend’s games.

Expecting to get comments from coach Jim Schwartz on the suspension this afternoon after practice.

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Several Lions missing from Tuesday practice

2011-11-29T14:26:00.002-05:00

ALLEN PARK — In a rare Tuesday practice, several of those injured in Thursday’s loss to Green Bay were still out.

That included RB Kevin Smith (ankle), S Louis Delmas (knee), CB Chris Houston (knee) and CB Brandon McDonald (lower leg). Smith was on the sidelines with his right ankle wrapped, no crutches in sight.

Also missing was Lawrence Jackson (thigh) who did not play on Thursday.

Ndamukong Suh, who has been suspended for two games, cannot practice or be at the facility until he’s reinstated on Dec. 12. The Lions get a roster exemption while he’s out but haven’t filled it yet.

Back at it after being released on Sept. 3 was RB Aaron Brown who re-signed over the weekend.

Due to the shortage at safety, Ricardo Silva was signed from the practice squad. He had a good preseason, but didn’t make the 53-man roster. To take his place on the practice squad DB Brandon Stephens was signed.

Punter Ryan Donahue (quad) was placed on injured reserve, ending his season.

The Lions practiced on Tuesday after their long weekend due to the Thanksgiving game. They play at New Orleans on Sunday in a game that was moved to 8:30 p.m. and will air on NBC’s Sunday night football. The Saints are 5-0 at the Superdome and have outscored opponents there 208-93.

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After further reflection, Suh admits he made a mistake

2011-11-26T13:44:00.003-05:00

Apparently Ndamukong Suh has seen the light, thanks to the Lions coaches and staff.

Following Thursday’s incident of grinding and stomping on Green Bay’s Evan Dietrich-Smith, the Lions defensive tackle was adamant that he was just trying to get out of a “situation.”

Actually he was digging himself deeper into another situation. General consensus in the media room after he made his post-game statement was that it just wasn’t believable. We’d seen the replay. Give us some credit.

Suh seems to be catching up with reality, at least if the following statement is sincere. He issued it on Facebook on Friday night.

“In the past few hours, I have had time to reflect on yesterday’s game and I want to sincerely apologize for letting my teammates down, the organization, and especially to my fans who look to me for positive inspiration.

“Playing professional sports is not a game. It is a profession with great responsibility, and where performance on and off the field should never be compromised. It requires a calm and determined demeanor, which cannot be derailed by the game, referee calls, fans or other players.

“I want to reiterate my commitment to working to become a better player, and professional — on and off the field. My reaction on Thursday was unacceptable. I made a mistake, and have learned from it. I hope to direct the focus back to the task at hand — by winning.’’

It’s expected that Suh won’t hear from the NFL whether he’s fined, suspended or both until Tuesday. He’s a repeat offender so he could be hit hard. It didn’t help that he showed no contrition initially.

While the league will have its say that doesn’t mean the Lions will just sit by and do nothing. If Suh isn’t suspended he could be benched. Or he could be benched when he returns from suspension. It would send a statement loud and clear.

Here’s the team statement:

“The on-field conduct exhibited by Ndamukong Suh that led to his ejection from yesterday’s game was unacceptable and failed to meet the high level of sportsmanship we expect from our players.

“Ndamukong has made many positive contributions to the Lions on and off the field. We expect his behavior going forward to consistently reflect that high standard of professionalism.

“We have been in contact with Commissioner Goodell’s office and were advised that, like any on-field matter, Thursday’s incident is subject to review by the League office and that any subsequent discipline would be determined by the League office.”

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Jahvid Best placed on injured reserve

2011-11-25T14:46:00.002-05:00

After missing the last five games, Lions running back Jahvid Best has been placed on injured reserve, ending his season.

Best sustained his concussion in the loss to the 49ers on Oct. 16. It was his second this season. His first concussion occurred during training camp.

While in his senior year of college at Cal, Best also sustained a concussion.

The Lions have struggled with the running game since he’s been out of action.

They re-signed Kevin Smith who had a solid effort in the win against the Panthers on Sunday. But early in the Thanksgiving game Smith injured his ankle and didn’t return. Afterward he said X-rays were negative. Reports are that he has a high ankle sprain. Recovery can vary with that specific injury.

The Lions next game is on Dec. 4 at New Orleans at 8:30 p.m. on Sunday night football.

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What's next for Suh? Likely first move is a suspension

2011-11-25T14:12:00.004-05:00

Not sure when or if Ndamukong Suh will be suspended, but expect that he will be. He’s a repeat offender so Roger Goodell will have good reason to make him sit for a game or two, maybe more. He did sit most of the second half on Thursday after his ejection so maybe that will go toward time served.

Don’t know if it will make a difference in Goodell’s decision, but Suh didn’t apologize to the Packers after the game. Through the media he said he wanted to apologize only to his teammates, his “true fans” and his coaches. But several of the Lions said that after the game he had not apologized directly to them. Any game he misses, will hurt the Lions’ chances of winning. The next game is at New Orleans on Dec. 4 in a game that has been moved to 8:30 p.m. on NBC.

Other than the suspension what will happen to Suh in the aftermath of the ugly incident with Green Bay’s Evan Dietrich-Smith?

My guess is that some of his teammates, including Corey Williams and Kyle Vanden Bosch, will have a long talk with him. Football is a team game and Suh is hurting his team with his actions. Williams and Vanden Bosch are examples that you can play hard-nosed football within the rules, or mostly within them. They’re veterans and perhaps they can make him listen.

Coach Jim Schwartz and Gunther Cunningham will also likely have more chats with Suh. They can’t afford him to go unchecked and so undisciplined. Despite a number of fines and penalties, Suh has been adamant that he’s not changing the way he plays.

Here’s one thing I found really odd on Thursday. When the media got down to the Lions press conference room near the locker room after the game, Suh was standing in the hall, dressed and talking to his sister. It seems like he should have been in the locker room talking to his teammates and coaches. Perhaps apologizing, maybe asking for their opinions. Corey Williams said he hadn’t spoken to Suh after the game. When asked, Matthew Stafford said he had not heard an apology.

The timing just seemed odd. It’s a team game and players should stick together.

Suh, who is fully aware of his image, could see that damaged too. Kevin Seifert who covers the NFC North for ESPN.com had a good point today wondering if Suh will lose some of his endorsement deals including Chrysler and Subway. He’s made a name for himself in two seasons, but not necessarily one that’s positive for advertisers.

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Lawrence Jackson out but Willie Young, Corey Williams active vs. Packers

2011-11-24T11:10:00.001-05:00

DETROIT — Defensive end Lawrence Jackson (thigh) will not play today against the Packers. He had been listed as doubtful on Wednesday’s injury report.

However defensive end Willie Young (ankle) and DT Corey Williams (calf) who were both questionable are active.

Running back Jahvid Best (concussion) and punter Ryan Donahue (quad) were declared out on Wednesday.

Others who healthy but not active are Drew Stanton, CB Alphonso Smith and G Leonard Davis.

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5 things Lions must do to beat Packers

2011-11-23T11:07:00.001-05:00

Five things the Lions (7-3) must do to beat the undefeated Green Bay Packers (10-0) on Thanksgiving at Ford Field:

1. Start fast on offense and defense. Didn’t work so well against the Panthers on Sunday perhaps there was a lesson to be learned there. Don’t want to fall into a deep hole against the Packers early. Could be dangerous.

2. Don’t just rattle Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, knock him down. One of the reasons Rodgers is the best quarterback in the NFL right now is that he can scramble and make things happen when pressured. So while rattling his cage is fine, sacks are the only sure way to stop him. The defensive line needs its best game of the season and then some.

3. Run the ball effectively. Last week after Matthew Stafford settled down and started throwing with accuracy, the Lions’ passing game opened up the running game and Kevin Smith took advantage. Expect to see Smith start. He’s got fresh legs and you know Scott Linehan was drawing up this week’s offensive game plan with him in mind.

4. It’s amazing how much more effective Stafford is when he gets time and stays basically untouched. You know Clay Matthews is hungry to get his mitts on Stafford. The offensive line must play like it did against Carolina or actually better since the Packers defense is much better than the Panthers.

5. Don’t get caught up in the huge implications of the game. Enjoy the day, enjoy the tradition and make fans glad they delayed their Thanksgiving feast to watch it all unfold. Don’t look too far ahead, just play with attitude.

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Lions Matthew Stafford, Kevin Smith nominated for NFL weekly honors

2011-11-22T12:04:00.001-05:00

For the third time this season Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford has been nominated for the NFL’s Air player of the week. In the 49-35 comeback win over the Panthers on Sunday he connected on 77.8 percent of his passes for 335 yards, five touchdowns and two interceptions.

Also nominated are Miami’s Matt Moore and Dallas’ Tony Romo.

In just his second game of the season, Lions running back Kevin Smith was nominated for Ground player of the week. He tallied 140 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries in the Lions’ 49-35 victory over the Carolina Panthers.

His yardage total and 8.8 yards per carry were the highest of any back on the weekend.

Also nominated are Cleveland’s Chris Ogbonnaya and Baltimore’s Ray Rice.

To vote go to NFL.com/FedEx.

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Best misses practice again, unlikely for Thursday

2011-11-22T11:42:00.001-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Don’t expect to see Lions running back Jahvid Best in Thursday’s big tilt against the undefeated Packers.

Best did not practice today (Tuesday). He has missed the last four games with a concussion.

Coach Jim Schwartz is unlikely to announce who will start at running back, but expect to see Kevin Smith get the nod. In his second game back with the Lions on Sunday he carried 16 times for 140 yards and four catches for 61 yards. Maurice Morris, who had seven carries for 29 yards on Sunday, has been the starter with Best out.

Also missing from practice were WR Calvin Johnson (ankle), DE Lawrence Jackson (thigh), DT Corey Williams (calf) and P Ryan Donahue (quad).

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Roger Brown, a 1962 Lions defensive tackle, loves Suh; would want 22 Suhs on his team

2011-11-22T10:52:00.002-05:00

Think the Lions and Ndamukong Suh are dirty? It’s all good with Roger Brown who played defensive tackle for the Lions in 1962 when they beat the previously undefeated Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving.

“I’m going to tell you I’m proud of him and I’m proud that he plays that tackle spot. I could never get anybody to call me dirty when I played even if I threw dirt in someone’s face,’’ Brown said in a conference call.

“A football player, especially on that defensive line, you’re not playing tiddlywinks, this is football. As long as he doesn’t try to break somebody’s arm or pile on after the whistle blows, that’s dirty.

“Suh is doing a heck of a job. I would like to have 22 of them on my team, call them all dirty. I’ll tell you what we’d go right to the Super Bowl,’’ Brown said.

See more on the 1962 Lions and their big win over the Packers in a story online Wednesday and in the print edition of Thursday’s Oakland Press.

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Jahvid Best still out; Spievey, Lawrence Jackson also don't practice

2011-11-16T11:41:00.001-05:00

ALLEN PARK — No sign of RB Jahvid Best at practice today (Wednesday). Best has missed three games with a concussion.

Also missing were Amari Spievey and Lawrence Jackson. Kyle Vanden Bosch, who typically rests on Wednesdays, was on the field watching but not participating.

Defensive end Willie Young appeared to injure his foot or ankle during the portion of practice open to the media.

The Lions (6-3), who have lost three of their last four, host the Carolina Panthers (2-7) on Sunday.

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Five things we learned from Lions' brutal loss at Chicago

2011-11-14T12:32:00.002-05:00

Five things we learned about the Lions in their 37-13 loss to the Bears on Sunday:

1. Consistency is still very much an issue with the team in all three phases, but especially on special teams. They have been up and down on coverage and they blew it big-time in the first half on Sunday when Devin Hester was on the field. He returned a punt 82 yards for a touchdown and got a combined 40 yards on two other punt returns. It could have gotten worse but he was ill and didn’t play in the second half.

2. Matthew Stafford had his worst game since perhaps his rookie season in the loss at Seattle when he threw five picks. He was playing with a fractured index finger on his throwing hand, the wind was whipping which made passing an adventure and he didn’t get enough protection from the line. He was forced to make 63 passing attempts because of the large deficit from the get-go. It doesn’t seem like it but he did throw for 329 yards. That was overshadowed by the four interceptions. It all added up to ugly.

3. They added to their reputation as a dirty team when Ndamukong Suh ripped off Jay Cutler’s helmet in the second quarter. Suh wasn’t penalized, but he could be fined by the league. The whole big scuffle early in the fourth quarter was started because of Stafford trying to get away from the blocks by D.J. Moore by grabbing the back of his helmet and tackling him. Moore was ejected, Stafford wasn’t. Moore shouldn’t complain too loudly because admitting you were tackled by a quarterback might take points off the man card.

4. They miss the explosiveness of Jahvid Best who has been out three games with a concussion. Maurice Morris has been starting and he’s fine, but he doesn’t have the extra gear that Best does. Although on Sunday the running game didn’t get much of a chance to prove itself because they dug such a hole deep that had to throw the ball to try to narrow the gap.

5. Even though it looked awful and it was, the defense held the Bears to 216 net yards and only 64 came from Matt Forte. The Lions are still 6-3 and have a good chance to bounce back against the Carolina Panthers who were pummeled by the Titans 30-3 on Sunday.

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5 things Lions must do to beat Bears

2011-11-12T10:49:00.002-05:00

Five things the Lions (6-2) have to do to beat the Bears (5-3) at Chicago’s Soldier Field:

1. Must run the ball effectively. When the Lions beat the Bears on Monday Night Football Jahvid Best had 163 yards including an 88-yard touchdown run. It will be up to Maurice Morris, Keiland Williams and Kevin Smith.

2. Stop Matt Forte and the Bears’ rushing attack. He had 112 yards vs. Lions in that first game and has not slowed down since.

3. Get to quarterback Jay Cutler. Changes were made on the offensive line since they last met and Cutler has been getting more protection and more time. It’s time for the defensive line to boost its sack totals.

4. Matthew Stafford needs to get the ball to Calvin Johnson who might still be a little motivated after the non-touchdown call at Soldier Field to start the 2010 season with a loss.

5. Keep the attitude. The Lions have been playing mean and nasty football combined with a slight swagger. They are 4-0 on the road and have a six-game road winning streak going back to last season. They seem to play well with the “us against the world” mentality.

Prediction: Lions 24, Bears 21.

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Hanson kicks at practice; Best, Hill still out

2011-11-10T11:38:00.001-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Unlike Wednesday, Jason Hanson was kicking field goals at practice today (Thursday). It was cold and windy on the outdoor practice field, but still no simulation of what it could be like on Sunday at Chicago’s Soldier Field.

On Wednesday’s injury report Hanson was listed with a left knee injury. That’s his plant leg.

So while it’s a good sign, Hanson was kicking it’s still not a sure thing he will be kicking on Sunday. The Lions tried out a pair of kickers — Rhys Lloyd and Shayne Graham on Wednesday.

Still missing from practice were Jahvid Best (concussion) and Sammie Hill (ankle). While neither has been officially ruled out for Sunday, it seems unlikely either will be active.

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Hanson doesn't kick at practice; Best, HIll still out

2011-11-09T11:38:00.002-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Jason Hanson was at Lions’ practice today and went through the motions, but did not kick the ball. An unsubstantiated report is that he has stitches in one of his knees from a bye weekend incident.

If it was serious, the Lions would have likely signed a kicker by now. Dave Rayner, the backup last season, just signed with the Buffalo Bills.

Also Jahvid Best (concussion) did not practice again. He’s missed two games and it seems unlikely he’ll be ready to go on Sunday at Chicago.

Also out for the second day was defensive tackle Sammie Hill, who did have an ankle injury but played in the last game at Denver.

Kyle Vanden Bosch sat out, but that’s not unusual for a Wednesday. It’s a rest day for the veteran defensive end.

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Best misses practice; Kevin Smith back at work

2011-11-08T14:23:00.002-05:00

ALLEN PARK — Lions’ running back Jahvid Best (concussion) did not practice today (Tuesday). Best has missed the last two games and his availability for this week became suspect when the Lions brought back running back Kevin Smith on Monday.

Smith, wearing No. 30, was practicing on Tuesday along with veteran guard Leonard Davis (No. 75) who was also signed to a one-year deal on Monday.

All others were present and accounted for during Tuesday’s extra practice following the bye week.

The Lions play at Chicago on Sunday at 4:15 p.m.

In a practice squad move, the Lions signed wide receiver Terrance Toliver and cut tackle Casey Bender.

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Stafford, Best don't practice; Nick Fairley back at it

2011-11-02T11:46:00.002-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Quarterback Matthew Stafford (ankle) and running back Jahvid Best (concussion) did not practice today (Wednesday). Stafford was on the field watching. He did not appear to be limping. No sign of Best who has missed two games.

DT Nick Fairley, who was inactive Sunday because of his injured foot, was back at practice.

Also not practicing were S Amari Spievey, RT Gosder Cherilus (knee), CB Eric Wright, S John Wendling and WR Rashied Davis (foot).

The Lions have a bye on Sunday. The players are off Thursday through Monday. They’ll return to practice on Tuesday to prepare for the Chicago Bears game on Nov. 13. The game time has been moved to 4:15 p.m.

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Avril, Stafford, Young recognized as standouts

2011-11-01T18:24:00.001-04:00

A win is always a team effort, but three Lions have been singled out for their play in the 45-10 win on Sunday over the Denver Broncos.

Defensive end Cliff Avril, who scored his first career touchdown, was named NFC defensive player of the week.

He finished the game with two sack-fumbles, also recovering one and returning it 24 yards for the touchdown.

“It’s cool to get a little recognition out of all the hard work you put in day-in and day-out. I definitely appreciate this — for them to want to give me, out of all the players that are in our conference, this award,’’ Avril told the Lions web site.

Also, Matthew Stafford was nominated as the NFL Air Player of the week for his efforts. He completed 21 of 30 passes for 267 yards and three touchdowns.

Quarterbacks also nominated were Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger. To vote go to NFL.com/FedEx.

Wide receiver Titus Young was nominated for NFL rookie of the week. He had four catches for 66 yards and a touchdown at Denver. To vote for him go to NFL.com/rookies.

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Stafford starts while Fairley, Best, Davis are inactive

2011-10-30T14:37:00.001-04:00

DENVER — As expected Matthew Stafford (ankle) is the starter today against the Broncos. He was listed as questionable on Friday’s injury report.

DT Nick Fairley (foot) and WR Rashied Davis (foot) are both inactive and were both doubtful.

The Lions won’t be too short-handed on the defensive line because DT Sammie Hill (ankle) is active. He was questionable, along with Stafford.

Running back Jahvid Best (concussion) was declared out on Friday. It’s the second game he missed after suffering the concussion against the Falcons. Maurice Morris will start for the second straight week.

Also inactive is newcomer safety Chris Harris who was claimed off waivers on Friday, along with CB Don Carey, Jason Fox and Drew Stanton.

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Suh requests meeting with Goodell to discuss penalties

2011-10-30T13:50:00.001-04:00

DENVER — Ndamukong Suh will take one of his off days during the bye week to meet with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and others to discuss his penalties and fines according a Fox Sports report by Jay Glazer.

The meeting was requested to also clarify what is and is not considered a penalty. It was initiated by the Lions second-year defensive tackle according to Glazer and is expected to take place this week. The Lions have a bye on Sunday, Nov. 6.

Suh, the defensive rookie of the year last year, has gained a reputation as a dirty player. The Sunday Denver Post put him at No. 1 on the Active All-Dirty Player list.

He got a 15-yard facemask penalty last week but was not fined.

Suh has repeatedly said he will not back off, he’ll keep playing aggressive football.

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5 things Lions must do to beat Broncos

2011-10-29T10:51:00.001-04:00

Five things the Lions (5-2) must do to beat the Denver Broncos (2-4) at Mile High Stadium on Sunday:

1. Offensively get off to a quicker start. They have been able to dig themselves out of large deficits (Minnesota, Dallas) but they’ve been on the short end the last two Sundays. The defenses they see when they take the field are not the defenses they’ve seen on film. The offense must adjust more quickly to the changes.

2. The defense must prevent the long runs. It doesn’t matter if the defense stops the run 90 percent of the time, they cannot allow the occasional bursts for 40 or 50 yards. Just can’t.

3. Rattle quarterback Tim Tebow early and often. He’s not experienced, perhaps a face full of Ndamukong Suh and Corey Williams would shake him up, especially early. Also stop him on the run.

4. Special teams must step up, especially the coverage units. Field position will be key for the Broncos so no long returns should be tolerated.

5. It’s not all about the attitude, but it’s important. Go hungry, play full-out on every snap. Prove that something’s been learned during the last two losses.

Prediction: Lions 24, Broncos 10.

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Stafford looks like he could start on Sunday; Best, Fairley absent from practice

2011-10-27T11:38:00.002-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, who injured his ankle Sunday, was back at practice for the second straight day. Today (Thursday) he did drills with the starters. Wednesday it was Shaun Hill working with starters.

Stafford doesn’t appear to be limping. If he keeps improving expect him to start Sunday at Denver.

Missing from practice were: Jahvid Best (concussion), LG Rob Sims (unknown), DT Nick Fairley (foot), DT Sammie Hill (ankle) and WR RT Rashied Davis (foot).

Back at it today after missing on Wednesday were CB Chris Houston (back) and Gosder Cherilus (knee).

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Stafford limited at practice; no sign of Best, Houston

2011-10-26T11:49:00.003-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Matthew Stafford was at practice today (Wednesday) wearing a helmet which is usually a sign that an injury is not too significant.

The quarterback, who injured his right ankle in Sunday’s loss to the Falcons, jogged lightly and threw a few balls, but obviously was limited. He was walking stiffly. At one point a trainer brought out a different shoe for his right foot.

Quarterback Shaun Hill worked some of the early drills with the starters while the media was present.

Running back Jahvid Best (concussion) was not at practice. He did not play on Sunday.

Cornerback Chris Houston (back) and DT Sammie Hill, who both went down in Sunday’s game, also did not practice.

Defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch didn’t practice, but he generally has Wednesday as a rest day.

Defensive end Willie Young, who sat out Sunday with a calf injury, was back at practice.

The Lions (5-2) play at Denver (2-4) on Sunday. Oddly enough, on Wednesday the Lions practiced outdoors to prepare for Denver, while the Broncos moved practice indoors because of snow.

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Stafford status day to day with injured ankle

2011-10-24T16:00:00.001-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford left Ford Field wearing an orthopedic boot after Sunday’s loss to Atlanta.

But his ankle injury is not serious according to coach Jim Schwartz.

In his Monday presser Schwartz said Stafford is day to day, nothing more.

Following the game his ankle and knee were a concern, but the knee is not an issue per Schwartz.

Stafford didn’t address the media on Monday, but Ndamukong Suh did and he had plenty to say about accusations that he and Cliff Avril taunted or kicked quarterback Matt Ryan when he was down. Stay tuned, writing as fast as I can.

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5 things we learned from Lions loss to Falcons

2011-10-24T13:40:00.002-04:00

Five things we learned from Lions’ 23-16 loss to Atlanta on Sunday.

1. Matthew Stafford must get better protection. He was sacked three times, it only seemed like more. After the loss to the 49ers the offensive line knew they had to step up. Sacks are not all the fault of the offensive line, but they have to step up and give Stafford time.

2. The defense is having trouble stopping the run. It’s grand they hold opponents to about 2 yards per gain until they blast through for the big run. Unacceptable.

3. Maurice Morris and Keiland Williams combined for 94 rushing yards. No word on if Jahvid Best will be back from his concussion on Sunday.

4. For all the talk, the defensive line needs to get more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. They had four sacks on Sunday, but they need more pressure. Also they need to play clean. Touch a facemask and a guy in a striped shirt will see it. Just saying.

5. The Falcons are whining that Ndamukong Suh and Cliff Avril were taunting Matt Ryan when he was down. Good for them. This is the NFL, no room for sissies.

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Willie Young out for Lions; Falcons' Julio Jones inactive

2011-10-23T11:43:00.001-04:00

DETROIT — Only surprise for the Lions is that DE Willie Young is out. Young has had a sack in two of last three games. He was limited at practice on Friday with a calf injury.

Perhaps the big news today is that Falcons’ RB Julio Jones is out with a hamstring injury. He was doubtful for the game. Harry Douglas will get the start at running back.

Lions running back Jahvid Best (concussion) was listed as out on Friday’s injury report.

WR Rashied Davis (foot) and safety Vincent Fuller (elbow) were listed as doubtful and are inactive.

Also out are Drew Stanton, Joe Jon Finley, Jason Fox and Rashied Davis.

Along with Jones, other Falcons who are inactive are Chris Owens, Darrin Walls, Brett Romberg, Sam Baker, Carlton Powell and Cliff Matthews.

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5 things Lions must do to beat Falcons

2011-10-22T13:40:00.002-04:00

Here are five things the Lions (5-1) must do to beat the Atlanta Falcons (3-3) on Sunday at Ford Field:

1. Establish a run game with Maurice Morris as the starter with Jahvid Best out with a concussion. Morris hasn’t had much work this season (he had a broken hand in camp), but he was solid in 2010 and came through big-time with 109 yards in the overtime win at Tampa. He had a touchdown in each of the final three games last season.

2. The offensive line had a bad game against a good 49ers defense. Matthew Stafford was sacked five times and pressured early and often. The line must get back on track, give Stafford time and protection.

3. Improve success in the red zone. Last week the Lions had to settle for a pair of field goals because they couldn’t score touchdowns from inside the 20. That cost them the game.

4. Like every week, get the ball to Calvin Johnson. While he had seven catches for 113 yards last week, San Francisco’s double-bracket defense kept him from scoring. You know the Falcons had an eye on that defensive strategy.

5. Keep the attitude. Haven’t seen any sign of head hanging or finger pointing this week which is a good sign. They need to keep it that way

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Rookie Nick Fairley still working to catch up

2011-10-21T15:50:00.001-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Again this week expect rookie defensive tackle Nick Fairley to play, but not to start. It’s going to take some time.

Defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham was asked on Friday if he’s ever going to change the defensive line’s aggressive, attack strategy and he brought up Fairley.

Cunningham was a little long-winded, but stick with it he had good stuff to say: “We’re going to keep playing, we’re going to keep bringing it. Slowing down? No, we’re not ever going to slow down. Matter of fact, we’re going to speed it up. If Fairley gets his butt in shape, pretty soon we’ll have another one. He’s getting better and better every day. We’re going to keep coming.’’

Fairley was jogging on the indoor practice field from sideline to sideline with an assistant following Friday’s practice.

He missed most of camp and the beginning of the season after he broke his foot early in training camp.

He’s played sparingly the last two games.

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Eldra Buckley practices, Best does not

2011-10-21T11:39:00.001-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Running back Jahvid Best, who has a concussion, did not practice again today (Friday). It’s highly unlikely he’ll play Sunday against the Falcons.

Eldra Buckley, the Lions’ new running back, was at practice and wearing No. 35. Buckley, who worked out for the Lions on Thursday, was cut by Philadelphia as part of the final roster cuts on Sept. 3.

RB Jerome Harrison, who has a brain tumor, was placed on reserve/non-football illness list.

Also missing from practice were CB Eric Wright, who practiced on Thursday, and WR Rashied Davis (foot) who didn’t practice Thursday.

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RB Eldra Buckley signed to take Harrison's roster spot

2011-10-21T10:58:00.000-04:00

ALLEN PARK — The Lions signed free agent running back Eldra Buckley (Tennessee Chattanooga) today after they placed Jerome Harrison on Reserve/Non-Football Illness List.

Buckley was cut by Philadelphia as part of the final roster cuts on Sept. 3. He spent 2009 with the Eagles. Originally signed as an undrafted free agent by San Diego in 2007 and spent two seasons on the Eagles’ practice squad.

Heading out to practice to see if he’s there.

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Jahvid Best's future this season possibly in doubt

2011-10-20T12:01:00.002-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Lions running back Jahvid Best, who on Sunday suffered his second concussion in three months, didn’t practice on Thursday.

There is talk he may be done for the season.

Mike Freeman of CBSsports.com has reported that people close to Best are telling him “that he needs to strongly consider sitting out the year.’’

Best has a concussion history going back to Cal where he missed the final four games of his senior season with a severe concussion.

His concussion history was a red flag when he was drafted by the Lions in the first round in 2010, but they said they had done their due dilligence through testing.

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Best, Harrison absent but Durant, Scheffler return to practice

2011-10-20T11:44:00.002-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Surprisingly tight end Tony Scheffler and linebacker Justin Durant were at practice today (Thursday). They were doing individual drills in the part that was open to the media.

Durant, who has missed three games, said on Wednesday he had passed his concussion tests, but he just did exertion work on Wednesday instead of practice.

Scheffler was injured in the Monday night game and didn’t play against the 49ers.

Jahvid Best, who suffered a concussion on Sunday, was not at practice.

Also not at practice was running back Jerome Harrison who failed a physical by the Eagles which nullified the trade that would have sent Ronnie Brown to Detroit.

Wide receiver Rashied Davis (foot) and S Vincent Fuller (elbow) did not practice.

In practice squad moves the Lions brought back fullback Matt Clapp and put James Davis on practice squad injured list. Davis had practiced one day with the Lions before getting injured.

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NFL admits mistake, Schwartz won't use it as an excuse for losing to 49ers

2011-10-19T18:03:00.001-04:00

ALLEN PARK — So the NFL issued a statement on Wednesday admitting that they gave the 49ers a 5-yard advantage on Sunday’s game-winning drive with a bad spot of the ball.

Here’s the statement: “The officiating crew incorrectly spotted the ball at the Detroit 35 instead of the 40 where Ted Ginn went out of bounds.’’

Five yards is a lot, but Lions coach Jim Schwartz isn’t using it as an excuse.

“It’s an unfortunate thing. They do their very best obviously sometimes things happen. The thing that made that difficult on that play there was also another situation we were talking to the officials about on that play, it went unnoticed coming out of that time-out,’’ Schwartz said.

He was talking about an illegal block on Maurice Stovall that was not called.

“I don’t think (five yards) affected the outcome of the game. We were still fourth-and-5 with a chance to stop them and grind out most of the rest of the clock and have a chance to finish the game,’’ Schwartz said. “We didn’t get that done. ...’’

When asked if he had somebody to watch the spots, he had a two-word reply: The officials.

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Six starters sit out Lions' practice today

2011-10-19T11:40:00.001-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Nine Lions including six starters didn’t practice today (Wednesday).

The list: S Amari Spievey (hamstring), DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (stinger on Sunday but usually rests on Wednesdays), CB Chris Houston (not sure of injury but no obvious cast or boot), LB Justin Durant (concussion), TE Tony Scheffler (concussion), RB Jahvid Best (concussion), S Vincent Fuller (elbow), CB Aaron Berry (groin) and Rashied Davis who has his foot back in a orthopedic boot.

Also, RB Ronnie Davis, who was dealt to Detroit from the Eagles on Tuesday for Jerome Harrison and a pick, was not at practice in the portion seen by the local media.

In practice squad news, RB James Davis (Clemson) was signed and TE Nathan Overbay was released.

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Did officials give 49ers an advantage on the game-winning drive?

2011-10-18T10:32:00.002-04:00

Looking back on it, the officiating may have cost the Lions a win on Sunday.

Not only were there bad calls including a horse-collar call on Chris Houston when he had just grabbed a little jersey, but also a bad chop block call on Brandon Pettigrew and the safety on Matthew Stafford that was questionable.

Now, according to a report on ProFootballTalk,com, the officials gave the 49ers an extra five yards on the game-winning drive when they spotted the ball in the wrong place.

With the Lions leading 19-14, they punted from their own 36-yard line with five-plus minutes left in the game. Ted Ginn fielded the punt, and crossed midfield before getting pushed out at the Lions’ 40 by punter Ryan Donahue.

The ball was spotted at Detroit’s 35, giving the 49ers a 5-yard advantage, per the PFT report.

Just watched the replay over and over. The TV announcers called Ginn out at the 36, but it looked closer to the 38 to me. Didn’t have a good view and he could have had a foot out at the 40. Definitely the ball was spotted at the 35 for the 49ers to begin their drive which resulted in a fourth-down, 6-yard touchdown pass. So San Francisco got at least a 1-yard advantage maybe 5.

The Lions didn’t notice the bad spot and neither did anyone else. Perhaps they were too upset with all the missed tackles on the punt. (I counted four.) The skirmish at the end between Jim Schwartz and Jim Harbaugh seemed to overshadow everything.

San Francisco was called for 15 penalties in the game including five for false starts due to the crowd noise. They were belly-aching about the officiating following the game. Detroit was whistled for six.

But maybe it’s the Lions that were hurt the most.

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5 things we learned about Lions in their first loss of season

2011-10-17T11:18:00.002-04:00

Five things we learned from the Lions’ 25-19 loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday:

1. The defense has much room for improvement especially against the run. What was most surprising was the 49ers kept running it up the gut, and still the Lions couldn’t stop them. They’ve played the last three games without linebacker Justin Durant, who has a concussion, and they’ve gotten by until Sunday. In fact, Bobby Carpenter has done a good job in his place. It’s a head scratcher.

2. In the first five games the offensive line had protected Matthew Stafford pretty well except when he was sacked five times in Minnesota. He barely got touched Monday night against the Bears. Well he got sacked five times by the 49ers and hit 10 times. All sacks are not on the line, but they take pride in keeping him upright and they just didn’t do a good job. They can play better.

3. Jahvid Best can run the ball, but the Lions can’t seem to put together a good running attack week after week. Give the 49ers defense credit but they aren’t the only team that has stuffed the Lions’ rushing attack (I use that word loosely).

4. All three phases — offense, defense and special teams played poorly. Sometimes one unit can help bail out the others, but not when they’re all out of sync. Give the Lions credit, they would not use the short week (they played Monday night) as an excuse. However, it could have been a factor.

5. The feeling in the locker room was that the 49ers should have been happy, they beat a great team. This is a position the Lions haven’t found themselves in for years — it’s a big deal to other teams when they beat Detroit. Now they have to adjust to having that big bull’s-eye on their backs.

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Lions' Fluellen out, no other surprises among inactives

2011-10-16T11:45:00.002-04:00

DETROIT — No surprises among the Lions’ inactives for Sunday’s game vs. the San Francisco 49ers.

DT Andre Fluellen, who played in the first 5 games, is out as a coach’s decision. That leaves 8 active defensive linemen including rookie DT Nick Fairley who made his debut on Monday night.

Safety Amari Spievey (hamstring), CB Aaron Berry (groin) and WR Rashied Davis (foot) are active after being listed as questionable on Friday’s injury report.

LB Justin Durant and TE Tony Scheffler, who both have concussions, were ruled out on Friday along with safety Vincent Fuller (elbow).

Will Heller will start in place of Scheffler, while Bobby Carpenter will get third straight start at linebacker for Durant.

Out for the 49ers are: Scott Tolzien, Braylon Edwards, Tramaine Brock, Moran Norris, Daniel Kilgore, Mike Person and Parys Haralson.

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5 things Lions must do to beat 49ers

2011-10-15T13:09:00.002-04:00

Here are five things the Lions (5-0) must do to beat the San Francisco 49ers (4-1) at Ford Field on Sunday. Kickoff 1 p.m.

1. The Lions must stop the 49ers ‘ running game, force them to pass making them one-dimensional. Detroit’s defense against the run is ranked 12th in the NFL and rising.

2. Matthew Stafford’s uniform barely got dirty in the win over the Bears. He needs to continue to have time to look downfield and find you-know-who.

3. Jahvid Best’s breakthrough 88-yard touchdown run was exceptional, he also had a 43-yard scamper in the best running game of his short career (163 yards on 12 carries). The Lions need to look at what happened and create the same holes again.

4. Get the ball to Calvin Johnson. He only had one touchdown last week, but along with that he had four other catches and averaged 26 yards per catch.

5. On Monday night, Nate Burleson ran out of the smoke-filled tunnel with boxing gloves draped around his neck in homage to Michael Buffer who was announcing the players. Perhaps he should wear them again Sunday to remind his teammates to keep fighting. They need to maintain that hungry attitude and I expect they will.

Prediction: Lions 24, 49ers 21

Durant, Scheffler, Fuller out for Sunday vs. 49ers

2011-10-14T17:10:00.001-04:00

As expected linebacker Justin Durant and tight end Tony Scheffler are out for Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers. Both have concussions.

This will be the third straight game that Durant misses. He was leading the team in tackles when he went down in Minnesota.

Scheffler was injured on Monday night and couldn’t finish the game.

Neither one was cleared to practice all week.

Also out will be safety Vincent Fuller who injured his elbow on Monday night in his first game with the Lions.

That leaves Detroit thin at safety. Amari Spievey (hamstring) is questionable but expected to play. Louis Delmas and John Wendling are the only other healthy safeties.

CB Aaron Berry (groin), WR Rashied Davis (foot) and T Jason Fox (foot) are also listed as questionable.

For San Francisco, cornerback Tramaine Brock (hand), wide receiver Braylon Edwards (knee) and running back Moran Norris (fibula) are out.

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Concussions keep Scheffler, Durant out of practice

2011-10-13T11:39:00.002-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Neither LB Justin Durant or TE Tony Scheffler practiced today (Thursday). Both have concussions.

Scheffler suffered his in Monday night’s game and could not finish. No word on if it’s a long-term situation with him, but the Lions signed TE Joe Jon Finley who was at practice. Finley, who was on the Lions’ practice squad last season, was cut on Sept. 3.

Durant suffered his concussion against the Vikings. He practiced on a limited basis at the end of last week but didn’t see action on Monday night because concussion symptoms returned in the pre-game warm-ups.

Safety Amari Spievey, who sat out Monday with a hamstring, was on the practice field for the part of practice that the media is allowed to watch.

Also returning to practice were CB Aaron Berry and WR Rashied Davis.

Earlier today it was announced that S Erik Coleman has been placed on Injured Reserve, ending his season.

Last week the Lions signed veteran safety Vincent Fuller. With Spievey and Coleman out on Monday, Fuller saw game action. They have four safeties with Fuller and another, Ricardo Silva, on the practice squad.

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Lions lose S Coleman for season; sign TE Finley

2011-10-13T10:46:00.001-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Safety is a position of concern with the announcement this morning that Erik Coleman (ankle) has been placed on Injured Reserve list, ending his season.

He was injured in the game at Dallas and missed the Monday night game along with starting safety Amari Spievey (hamstring).

It’s a move the Lions may have seen coming because they signed S Vincent Fuller last week. Even though he didn’t have much practice time with Detroit, he saw action on Monday night.

Spievey could be back Sunday to face the 49ers. Although the Lions didn’t practice Wednesday he was listed on the injury report that speculated he would have been limited in practice.

Signing Finley may mean that tight end Tony Scheffler, who suffered a concussion on Monday night, may have a long-term injury.

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Schwartz awards Lions fans a game ball for help in defeating the Bears

2011-10-12T12:57:00.001-04:00

ALLEN PARK — How much help were the fans on Monday night in helping the Lions beat the Bears?

Enough that coach Jim Schwartz is awarding the fans a game ball from the Monday Night Football game. It will be painted up with the details and displayed at Ford Field.

“(The fans) did a heckuva job. That kind of atmosphere is something we need week in and week out,’’ quarterback Matthew Stafford said on Wednesday.

“They did a great job being quiet on offense and loud on defense which we appreciated, it’s going to be a ton of fun,’’ he added.

Sounds a little strange, but Lions fans had forgotten their Ps and Qs over the long stretch of mediocrity. At times last season they were loud when the Lions’ offense was on the field.

The Lions (5-0) host the 49ers (4-1) on Sunday in a key NFC contest. San Francisco’s only loss came to Dallas in overtime. The Lions are 5-point favorites.

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Next up: The surprising 4-1 Niners

2011-10-11T11:30:00.002-04:00

DETROIT — Perhaps the Detroit Lions should get used to the spotlight.

All eyes were on Ford Field on Monday night for the Lions 24-13 win over the Chicago Bears in the nationally televised divisional game.

On Sunday, again the Lions (5-0) will be involved in perhaps the biggest NFL game of the day when they host the San Francisco 49ers (4-1).

The 49ers, under new head coach Jim Harbaugh (yes, that Jim Harbaugh) have been the surprise coming out of the NFC West.

With a new head coach, coordinators and several key players it was thought the 49ers, who finished last season 6-10, might be a team to struggle out of the gate due to the lack of offseason training because of the NFL lockout.

But they have surprised most everyone including the Tampa Bay Bucs who they embarrassed 48-3 on Sunday.

The Lions, who have played San Francisco just once at Ford Field, have not beaten the 49ers since Sept. 25, 1995.

Quarterback Alex Smith has also been a surprise this season. He’s completed 83 of 126 attempts for 965 yards, seven touchdowns and just one interception. In his seventh NFL season, Smith also rushed for another score.

Against the Lions, he will be without his top wide receiver Joshua Morgan. Late in Sunday’s game Morgan sustained a broken bone in his lower right leg. It was announced on Monday that he will required surgery and will miss significant time.

The game against the 49ers will be the second of three straight home games for the Lions. They will host the Atlanta Falcons (2-3) on Oct. 23 before heading to Denver (1-4) on Oct. 30 for their final game prior to the bye week.

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You tell us: Need your thoughts on Lions

2011-10-11T11:15:00.004-04:00

Take a deep breath after the Lions 24-13 win over the Chicago Bears on Monday night.

Now please help us out with a special project.

How far will the Lions go this year? How long have you been a fan? Leave your message of support for the Detroit Lions by calling 248-291-7332. Your response is sought for a special multi-media report on the Lions. Please remember to leave your full name and the community you reside in.

Thanks, we appreciate it.

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Fairley in, but Durant and Spievey are out

2011-10-10T19:14:00.001-04:00

DETROIT — Nick Fairley will see his first NFL action tonight against the Chicago Bears. Fairley, the Lions’ first-round draft pick, had been sidelined since early in training camp while rehabbing a broken foot. He practiced four days last week but he said on Saturday he had not been told if he would or would not play. He was listed as questionable on Saturday’s injury report.

According to the depth chart, Fairley will not start. Expect him to rotate in and out of the defensive line with Corey Williams, Sammie Hill and Andre Fluellen.

Also inactive is Justin Durant who had concussion symptoms during pregame warm-ups. He missed last week’s game with a concussion but had practiced last week.

S Amari Spievey (hamstring) is also out. John Wendling will start in his place.

On Saturday S Erik Coleman (ankle), WR Rashied Davis (foot) and T Jason Fox (foot) were listed as out.

Also out are RB Jerome Harrison and Drew Stanton.

Inactives for Chicago are: Nathan Enderle, Kahlil Bell, Gabe Carimi, Earl Bennett, Stephen Paea, Mario Addison and Corey Wootton.

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5 things Lions must do to beat Bears

2011-10-09T13:45:00.002-04:00

Five things the Lions must do to beat the Bears (2-2) on Monday night at Ford Field:

1. Protect Matthew Stafford. The Bears’ front seven, which includes Julius Peppers, is dangerous. In three of the first four games Stafford has not been sacked. It’d be a good idea to keep him clean in this one too. Just saying.

2. Stop Matt Forte, a multidimensional threat on the run and as the recipient of short screen passes. He had 205 yards last week. If can equal that, the Lions lessen their chances of picking up their fifth win in five games.

3. Get to quarterback Jay Cutler. Chicago’s offensive line is one of their weaknesses which explains why Cutler has been sacked 15 times in first four games. Detroit’s strength is its defensive line. Put two and two together and ...

4. Get the ball to Calvin Johnson. He’ll be double- and triple-teamed, but if Stafford can connect with him for another pair of touchdowns, it could be a happy night at Ford Field.

5. Stay focused. It’ll be a grand homecoming for the Lions who have played just once at Ford Field in the first four games. The crowd will surely thank them for the 4-0 start. It’s all good, it’s all fun. But once the ball is snapped, focus is key.

Prediction: Lions 27, Bears 17

Lions injury report for Monday night vs. Bears

2011-10-08T16:44:00.002-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Only two Lions couldn’t practice Saturday. Safety Erik Coleman (ankle) and wide receiver Rashied Davis (foot) were both out. Offensive lineman Jason Fox (foot) practiced for second straight day. All three were listed as out on the injury report for Monday night’s game.

Justin Durant (concussion) and Nick Fairley (foot) were upgraded to full practice Saturday. Durant is probable for Monday while Fairley is questionable.

Others on the injury report: Aaron Berry (groin), Lawrence Jackson (hamstring) and Amari Spievey (hamstring) are questionable; Louis Delmas (abdomen), Calvin Johnson (ankle), DeAndre Levy (knee), Maurice Stovall (hand) and Eric Wright (groin) are probable.

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Fairley impressive in practice, still no word on whether he will play Monday

2011-10-08T13:30:00.002-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Nick Fairley has still not gotten the word if he will make his NFL debut on Monday Night Football.

The Lions’ first-round pick did practice on Saturday for the fourth straight day.

Defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch said he thinks Fairley will play, but he has no idea what the coaches are thinking.

Defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham sang Fairley’s praises after Saturday’s practice.

“We had a two-minute drill and I looked out there and said, ‘That’s the way life is supposed to be Gunther.’ I’ve had a history of having some really outstanding defensive linemen in my career, when I looked out there, I’m still alive I’m sure, sometimes you dream about those things,’’ Cunningham said.

Fairley was lined up at the time with Ndamukong Suh, Kyle Vanden Bosch and Cliff Avril.

The decision on whether he will play is not up to Cunningham.

“The decision has yet to be made. It’s in Jim (Schwartz’s) hands and the trainer, but I do have a lot of political maneuvering,’’ Cunningham said.

Fairley broke his foot early in training camp and this was his first full week of practice.

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Lions mostly healthy in final practice before MNF

2011-10-08T11:36:00.002-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Only two Lions couldn’t practice today (Saturday). Safety Erik Coleman and wide receiver Rashied Davis were both out with foot injuries.

Rookie defensive tackle Nick Fairley was participating fully in the portion of practice open to the media. He has had limited practice the past two days according to the Lions’ injury report. He said on Friday he had not been told if he will make his NFL debut on Monday. Fairley broke his foot early in training camp. This was his first full week of practice.

Offensive lineman Jason Fox practiced for second straight day. It’s likely it was on a limited basis. He is not expected to play on Monday.

In practice squad moves, G Jacques McClendon was signed. He had been cut from the Lions’ 53-man roster earlier in the week. WR Owen Spencer was cut to make room.

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Nick Fairley still waiting for green light to play on Monday

2011-10-07T13:48:00.003-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Who is more impatient? Lions fans to see their first-round pick Nick Fairley take the field, or Fairley himself.

He has not heard from the coaches and trainers whether he will play on Monday night against the Chicago Bears.

The rookie defensive tackle broke his foot early in training camp. He practiced on Friday for the third straight day and just the fourth time since the injury.

“I’ve been getting better each and every day. Basically every day I’ve been taking a step forward. Everything’s been going good, they’ve been tremendous through the whole process of getting me back to where I need to be,’’ Fairley said.

ESPN has reported that he will play, but coach Jim Schwartz will not confirm or deny the report.

Fairley said we’ll know when he get the OK, because he’ll be all smiles.

“Whatever coach Schwartz and the trainers come up with I have to go with. It’s not up to me, whenever they give me the green light I’ll be ready to go full-steam ahead,’’ Fairley said.

He'll have to work his way up the depth chart. Ndamukong Suh and Corey Williams start at defensive tackle while Sammie Hill and Andre Fluellen rotate in and out.

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Fairley, Fox back on the practice field

2011-10-07T11:45:00.001-04:00

ALLEN PARK — Jason Fox was on the practice field today (Friday) with a helmet for the first time since breaking his foot early in training camp. But the offensive lineman didn’t do much other than stretch and watch the other offensive linemen slam into the sled during drills.

Nick Fairley was back at it for a third day. But from the part of practice that the media is allowed to see, it was unclear if the first-round pick was at full go. He had to take a break during drills to have his foot re-wrapped. He practiced on Thursday on a limited basis.

While ESPN has reported Fairley will play on Monday night, that is not a certainty at all. He’s going to need a few full practices to start to get up to speed. Saturday is the only practice day left before Monday night’s game against the Bears.

Safety Erik Coleman (foot) and wide receiver Rashied Davis (foot) remained out on friday.

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Fairley practices again; Spievey, Coleman still out

2011-10-06T11:45:00.002-04:00

ALLEN PARK — First-round pick Nick Fairley returned to practice for second straight day today (Thursday). It’s the first back-to-back practices for the defensive tackle since he broke his foot early in training camp.

This does not necessarily mean that he will play in the Monday night game against the Bears, but it’s a step in the right direction.

Calvin Johnson, Titus Young and Stephen Tulloch all returned to practice after sitting out on Wednesday.

Still out are Amari Spievey, Erik Coleman, Rashied Davis and Jason Fox.

The Lions signed S Vince Fuller who played for Jim Schwartz with the Tennessee Titans. To make room on the roster they cut G Jacques McClendon.

Standing room only tickets for Monday night’s game go on sale at 1 p.m. today at Ticketmaster.com and DetroitLions.com. Tickets are $50 with a limit of four per person.

(Follow @PaulaPasche on Twitter. Get Lions news delivered directly to your phone by texting the keyword "Lions" to 22700.)

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