Lions stumble
I'm not surprised it is this way. This is still a team a year or two away. Some good days, some bad days. Really stunk @ GB, very strong against NY, and then kind of stinking today.
Let me say this. Dick Jauron is a very good defensive coach, and he is doing very well at getting maximum production out of his defensive team. The line is playing well, and the backfield makes plays, and the linebackers are good and will be better when Bailey is back. I think our defense will keep us in most games this year.
Which is good. Because the offense is struggling. Although Hakim had a good game, without Williams and Rogers, we lack playmakers. Reggie Swinton is doing admirably, but Streets is disappointing (and playing a role never envisioned for him), and Kircus will always suck.
The running game never left the locker room. 33% on third downs. Only 21 minutes TOP. 15 first downs. After scoring on the first drive, the O did not score again until 5:30 left in the game.
I think its as simple as this. When Williams plays, he opens stuff up. He helps Hakim. Streets can be a #3--a role he is still suited for. Swinton can make some plays. Kircus can wear his street clothes, a role he is suited for. It opens the run up. Imagine if we had Williams AND Rogers. But never mind--just Williams is enough. He's a terrific player.
So we're 4-3, and well on track for an 8-8 season, which is success for this club. Add some more talent to an improving D, hope for some health, and we could be in the playoffs next year. We need to beat the struggling Redskins next week @ home, with Jax and Minnesota on the road after that. No one will be surprised if we are 5-5 at that point. If we can beat Arizona, the Bears, and upset the Vikes at home, and we could still be 8-8...or if we have our usual Thanksgiving rejuvenation, maybe we can upset the Colts.
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