The Fifth Down Blog On The Detroit Lions

For the past decade, the Detroit Lions haven't been a credible threat to overtake the Green Bay Packers in the NFC North. But since the departure of Matt Millen, there have been some signs of life. The NY Times Fifth Down Blog took a look at their offense and defense. Here's a quote about their best unit, the defensive line:

The outstanding play of defensive tackles Ndamukong Suh and Corey Williams augmented a stellar defensive line rotation. Suh dominated most with his ability to move and still maintain power. Williams was more about brute force.

I'm surprised as anyone that former Packers DT Corey Williams has found a second life in Detroit. I was really impressed with the play of their entire defensive line rotation when they beat the Packers last December. Of course, Suh is a monster, who along with WR Calvin Johnson, gives them two of the best players in the NFL.

They'll need two things to improve on their 2010 season: a full-season of quality play from QB Matthew Stafford, and they have to find more star players in the draft. They're on the cusp of becoming a playoff contender, and 2011 will be a key year for their development.