Detroit Lions fans are breathing a sigh of relief for a change at the conclusion of a game. They have won a divisional game for the first time in over three years with late heroics by the defensive line. Ndamukong Suh and company controlled the line of scrimmage for the entire game. Before Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers went down late in the first half with a concussion, the defense for the Lions at least had to respect the passing game that Green Bay had. After the injury, defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham and the rest of Detroit’s staff could focus on stopping the run.
By Patrick Herbert
The final score of 7-3 provided Detroit with their third win of the season even though they could arguably have two more victories against the Bears that officials obviously took out of their hands. Regardless, offensive coordinator Scot Linehan schemed myriad ways to involve the most potent offensive weapon on the field-Stefan Logan. The journeyman scat back and kick returner displays a desire and explosiveness that brings life to a team that has no chance at postseason play.
Quarterbacks on both sides took chances with running the ball to achieve first downs for their teams. This was a smart decision for Drew Stanton and it was a foolish one for Aaron Rodgers. The latter is exponentially more important to his club, while the former is truly in position with nothing to lose. He entered the game as the third string quarterback who was thrust into play due to injuries.
He might as well leave all his cards on the table every time that he takes a snap. This is why it is curious that he didn’t throw the ball up more to receiver Calvin Johnson. Stanton did have some early attempts to Johnson, but the trend should have continued considering that the Packers defensive secondary was being extremely aggressive. It is true that Stanton did throw a critical interception in the end zone at the end of a scramble, but increased attempts could have resulted in more big plays or at least the possibility of some more pass interference calls by the officials.
I will never get the thirty seconds back that I spent watching the post-game highlights.
One touchdown scored between two teams in a controlled environment during the late portion of the season is beyond anemic. Both sides were missing offensive weapons, but the defenses should have even scored more points considering the turnovers that were committed by both sides.
Fans in Detroit should be thinking of Al Davis’ “just win baby” adage at this juncture. It certainly was not pretty, but who cares? The ends justify the means when desperation is present. Matthew Stafford has been injured more than in the line-up during his brief career. His disengaged demeanor on the sidelines does not lend insight to Drew Stanton, even though he desperately could use it during the last few games. As the team prepares for Tampa Bay next week, morale should be higher all around as success is in the air.