The Lions roll into their inaugural season with a legitimate sense of optimism. It would be unlikely for them to challenge for the championship, but a top-half finish is possible, especially if the offense clicks into high gear.
OFFENSE
Pro Basic – I Formation
Barry Sanders and Billy Sims are a potent backfield, and the combination of Steve Smith and Calvin Johnson is as good as there is. But Cam Newton maybe overmatched here, and while the offensive line is solid, it lacks star power.
DEFENSE
4-3; 4/4 Stack; 2-4 Nickel
Look for Al Baker and Robert Porcher to provide the rush alongside the overall dominance of Ndamukong Suh, Mike Rucker, Julius Peppers, and Alex Karras up front. Combined with one of the best secondaries in the league led by the trio of Night Train Lane, Jack Christiansen, and Yale Lary. The problem may be in the middle: Joe Schmidt and Luke Kuechly are fantastic, but the talent falls off fast behind them.
COACHING TENDENCIES
None.