Feelin' Blue: An NCAA/Madden 2010 Dynasty [Madden 10]

[DeToxRox]

This is the second part of my NCAA/Madden joint dynasty. I will be controlling the Hapless Lions and attempting to fix them much like I am trying to fix Duke.

I haven't touched sliders and such but I'll edit that before I play a game as year one will strictly be simming.

Also I am using the most recent online rosters as I am not too concerned if Vick is playing or not TBH.

[DeToxRox]

2009 Detroit Lions Depth Chart

QB

1. Matt Stafford (79)
2. Daunte Culpepper (72)
3. Drew Stanton (47)

Stafford is obviously the future here. He will start in the pre-season but Daunte will have a chance if he produces. I'd rather flip him for a pick though.

HB

1. Kevin Smith (80)
2. Maurice Morris (75)
3. Aaron Brown (64)
4. Avion Cason (60)

Smith is going to start but Morris will see some decent time as we plan on running a lot. Brown is going to make the roster but Cason is going to be fighting for a roster spot.

FB

1. Terrellle Smith (79)
2. Jon Bradley (68)

Smith is for sure the starter. At 246 lbs he is a big boy for Smith to run behind. Bradley is probably going to be cut as I cannot justify two FB.

WR

1. Calvin Johnson (92)
2. Bryant Johnson (72)
3. Dennis Northcutt (68)
4. Derrick Williams (68)
5. Keary Colbert (60)
6. Adam Jennings (54)

Megatron is a monster and will be our best player obviously. After that it's not very promising. Williams starts as our #4 WR but might take over for Northcutt with a good preseason.

TE

1. Brandon Pettigrew (80)
2. Casey Fitzsimmons (70)
3. Will Heller (66)
4. Dan Gronkowski (62)

Gronkowski is a rookie on the roster who I like and he will see PT in the preseason to try and make the team. Pettigrew is the future though.

OL

LT: Backus (77), Loper (67), Murtha (65)
LG: Jansen (77), Cook (70), Ramirez (6)
C: Raiola (80), Gandy (68), Jansen (74)
RG: Peterman (78), Fontoi (65), Jansen (77)
RT: Cherlius (75), Jansen (77), Loper (65)

Well, we're okay I guess. That OL will be serviceable at times but it needs some huge upgrades in the draft.

DL

LE: Avril (71), DeVries (71), Alama-Francis (64)
RE: White (82), DeVries (69), Alama-Francis (62)
DT: Jackson (76), Garby (72), Cohen (64), Hill (61), Fluellen (61)

This is the other weakness of the team. Our lines have to get better or else we're never going to come close to a winning record.

LB's

LOLB: Peterson (88), Dizon (61), Levy (56)
MLB: Foote (78), Dizon (63), Levy (58), Bing (48)
ROLB: Sims (87), Levy (56), Dizon (59)

The strength of our team, these guys have to produce if we want to win at least 5 games. After the starters though the depth is terrible and has to be addressed.

CB's

1. Henry (78)
2. Buchanon (76)
3. King (62)
4. Smith (60)
5. Robinson (57)

Again, our starters are okay but the depth is not good. We'll be looking to upgrade throughout the year and obviously in the offseason.

FS

1. Bullocks (73)
2. Hicks (53)
3. King (60)

Another position that needs fixing. Bullocks is serviceable but no depth. Common theme, eh?

SS

1. Delmas (76)
2. Pearson (61)
3. King (55)

Delmas is a savior on D. 76 as a rookie, he has good potential and could turn into a star. If he goes down though, pack it in in the secondary.

K

Hanson (95)

Our best player not Calvin

P

Harris (73)

He is solid.

KR

1. Northcutt (99)
2. Jennings (93)

Hey, we have a return game!

PR

1. Northcutt (99)

He has some use to us.

[DeToxRox]

Preseason Week 1: Detroit vs Atlanta

Detroit 31 - Atlanta 31

Both of our QB's were amazing, but Stafford was just that much better. He was 8-9 for 72 yards and 2 TD, though Culpepper was 10-16 for 122 yards and 2 TD himself. Still, Stafford needs to really struggle to lose this job.

Calvin Johnson had 2 TD, both from Stafford. Loving that connection already, while Derrick Williams made his first point at becoming our #3 WR with 2 catches for 45 yards and a TD.

On D, DeVries had 2 sacks, White had 1.5 and Peterson had 1. Levy played well with 4 tackles, and ditto for Delmas who had 2 tackles himself in just a quarter of so of play.

A good start to the preseason.

[DeToxRox]

Preseason Week 2: Detroit @ Cleveland

Cleveland 16 - Detroit 10

Stafford was 7-9 for 57 yards with no TD or INT while Culpepper was 8 for 13 for 68 yards with a TD. Once again, edge Stafford, who did his damage vs the first team.

Calvin had 4 grabs for 31 yards, and Pettigrew had 2 for 18. Nothing else there of note.

Avril and Darby added a sack each while Peterson and Pearson each had INT's. Dizon helped himself with 7 tackles, while Delmas had 5 tackles with 3 assists.

Offense was lacking but the defense looked solid.

[DeToxRox]

Preseason Week 3: Detroit vs Indianapolis

Detroit 37 - Indy 7

Stafford in a full half struggled but still showed his flashes of brilliance as he was 12-23 for 133 yards with a TD and 2 INT. Culpepper was 8-14 for 177 yards with a TD and 2 INT himself. The job has officially been won by Stafford.

Kevin Smith had 2 rushing TD, though he only had 32 yards on 16 carries which is is sad.

Calvin had 2 more TD, with 6 grabs for 77 yards. Williams may have clnched the #3 gig with 4 catches for 86 yards while Pettigrew was good with 5 for 47.

On D, Cohen, Devries, Darby and Jackson all had a sack, while Hicks, Dizon, Delmas, Buchanon and Peterson each had an INT. Talk about a sick day on D. Dizon also had 6 tackles with 2 assists. He has really manned up this preseason.

It should be noted two of the picks we had were off of Peyton, with the other 3 were off of Sorgi.

[DeToxRox]

Lions trade Culpepper; Sign Frerotte

With Daunte Culpepper's days numbered, they sent the Veteran QB to the Niners who are in dire need of a QB for a 4th round pick. The deal appeased both sides, and then Detroit added vet QB Gus Frerotte who signed a 2 year deal to be Stafford's mentor and backup QB.

[DeToxRox]

Preseason Week 4: Detroit @ Buffalo

Buffalo 25 - Detroit 14

Nothing of note to report. Griese and Stanton played, all the other starters were basically out. The guys who needed to shine did to an extent. Just your usual 4th preseason game.

[DeToxRox]

2009 College Scouting

All of these are top 5 at their positions based on potential prior to my scouting:

QB

1. Tim Tebow (Florida)
2. Colt McCoy (Texas)
3. Daryll Clark (Penn State)
4. Todd Reesing (Kansas)
5. Sam Bradford (Oklahoma

RB

1. Stafon Johnson (USC)
2. Evan Royster (Penn State)
3. CJ Spiller (Clemson)
4. Charles Scott (LSU)
5. James Starks (Buffalo)

FB

1. Matt Clapp (Oklahoma)
2. Richie Brockel (Boise State)
3. Brody Eldridge (Oklahoma)
4. Baron Huber (Alabama)
5. James Aldridge (Notre Dame)

Wide Receiver

1. Riley Cooper (Florida)
2. Richard Goodman (Florida State)
3. Jordan Shipley (Texas)
4. Malcolm Wiliams (Texas)
5. Kerry Meier (Kansas)

TE

1. Jermaine Gersham (Oklahoma)
2. Dennis Pitta (BYU)
3. Anthony McCoy (USC)
4. Ed Dickson (Oregon)
5. Garrett Graham (Wisconsin)

LT

1. Zane Beadles (Utah)
2. Russell Okung (Oklahoma State)
3. Adam Ulatoski (Texas)
4. Mike Tepper (California)
5. Charles Brown (USC)

LG

1. Sergio Render (Va. Tech)
2. Brandon Carter (Texas Tech)
3. Mike Johnson (Alabama)
4. Doug Palmer (East Carolina)
5. Cord Howard (Georgia Tech)

C

1. Chris Hall (Texas)
2. Ryan Blaszczyk (Rutgers)
3. Daverin Geralds (Ole Miss)
4. Josh McNeil (Tennessee)
5. Andrew Lewis (Oklahoma State)

RG

1. Jacques McClendon (Tennessee)
2. Joshua Tauffalele (New Mexico)
3. Kurtis Gregory (Missouri)
4. Lyle Hitt (LSU)
5. Alex Parsons (USC)

RT

1. John Jerry (Ole Miss)
2. Sam Young (Notre Dame)
3. Chris Marinelli (Stanford)
4. Dennis Landlolt (Penn State)
5. Selvish Capers (West Virginia)

LE

1. Corey Worton (Northwestern)
2. Antonio Coleman (Auburn)
3. CJ Wilson (East Carolina)
4. Will Tukuafu (Oregon)
5. Brandon Graham (Michigan)

RE

1. Auston English (Oklahoma)
2. George Selvie (USF)
3. Jermaine Cunningham (Florida)
4. Rahim Alem (LSU)
5. Markus White (Florida State)

DT

1. DeMarcus Granger (Oklahoma)
2. Terrence Cody (Alabama)
3. Charles Alexander (LSU)
4. Jared Odrick (Penn State)
5. Ndamukong Suh (Nebraska)
7. Vince Oghobaase (Duke)

LOLB

1. AJ Edds (Iowa)
2. Dekoda Watson (Florida State)
3. Sean Weatherspoon (Missouri)
4. Jaevery McFadden (Wisconsin)
5. Keenan Clayton (Oklahoma)

MLB

1. Ryan Stamper (Florida)
2. Sean Lee (Penn State)
3. Brandon Spikes (Florida)
4. Pat Angerer (Iowa)
5. Jared Norton (Texas)

ROLB

1. Roddrick Muckelroy (Texas)
2. Malcom Smith (USC)
3. Harry Coleman (ROLB)
4. Rico McCoy (Tennessee)
5. Eric Norwood (South Carolina)

CB

1. Prince Miller (Georgia)
2. Walter Thurmond (Oregon)
3. Deon Beasley (Texas)
4. Stephan Virgil (Virginia Tech)
5. Jamar Wall (Texas Tech)

FS

1. Kam Chancellor (Virginia Tech)
2. Taylor Mays (USC)
3. Nate Allen (USF)
4. Kendrick Lewis (Ole Miss)
5. Brendan Smith (Northwestern)

SS

1. Josh Pinkard (USC)
2. Kyle McCarthy (Notre Dame)
3. Brad Phillips (Northwestern)
4. Justin Woodall (Alabama)
5. Larry Asante (Nebraska)

K

1. Brett Swenson (Michigan State)
2. Aaron Pettrey (Ohio State)
3. Jonathan Phillips (Florida)
4. Hunter Lawerence (Texas)
5. Leigh Tiffin (Alabama)

P

1. John Gold (Texas)
2. PJ Fitzgerald (Alabama)
3. Zoltan Mesko (Michigan)
4. Brent Bowden (Virginia Tech)
5. Jeremy Boone (Penn State)

[DeToxRox]

Week 1 Scouting

We spend all the scouting this week on OL, DL, MLB and FS. We need to really shore up the lines and we need another couple LB's, and obviously we have quite a problem at FS as well.

[DeToxRox]

Week 1: Detroit Lions (0-0) @ New Orleans Saints (0-0)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: B. Johnson
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Jansen
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherlius

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Foote
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

New Orleans 24 - Detroit 17

The Matthew Stafford era began with him proving he deserved to be the #1 overall pick. Despite being sacked an astounding 8 times, Stafford was 20/37 for 273 yards with 2 TD - 1 INT. He showed great poise in a crumbling pocket and was never rattled, but he couldn't do it himself, and the Lions paid for it.

Rookie Derrick Williams, who took over for Bryant Johnson who tore his petella and is now out for the season, had 5 grabs for 93 yards and a TD, and Calvin Johnson, with two DB's on him every play, still managed 3 grabs for 49 yards and a score.

Rookie Louis Delmas was the Lions defensive player of the game, with 9 tackles and an INT in his first game. Outside of him, and a sacks from Grady Jackson and Jared Devries, the defense didn't do much else of note.

The Lions must now regroup as they face the Vikings in their home opener in week 2.

[DeToxRox]

Week 1: Post Game Notes

- As stated above, Bryant Johnson is out for the year with a Torn Patella Tendon. We put him on IR, and then cut TE Will Heller as we had 4 on the roster and it was too many. To replace Johnson we sign Ike Hilliard to a 1 year, 1.85 million dollar deal. He will jump in as our #2 opposite Calvin.

[DeToxRox]

Week 1 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Tom Brady (New England) 36 of 39 for 353 yards and 4 TD

DEFENSE: MLB D'Qwell Jackson (Cleveland) 12 tackles, 1 sack, 2 FF

[DeToxRox]

Week 2: Detroit Lions (0-1) vs Minnesota Vikings (0-1)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: B. Johnson
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Jansen
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherlius

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Foote
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Detroit 15 - Minnesota 3

Another game for Matthew Stafford, another impressive day, and this time, his first career NFL win! Stafford was 21/38 for 300 yards with 1 TD - 1 INT to lead Detroit in a spirited defensive effort over the Vikings.

Calvin Johnson caught 7 balls for 87 yards and a 4th quarter TD, while Derrick Williams had another huge night as the #3 WR with 4 catches for 97 yards to give Stafford some big weapons to use en route to his first 300 yard game.

The OL was much improved today as well, allowing the vaunted Vikings DL to just 1 sack, which was from Kevin Williams.

On the defensive end, the Lions were all over Tavaris Jackson, who completed just 11 balls for only 61 yards. Eric King, Louis Delmas and Larry Foote all had picks for the Lions, but the real hero was Cliff Avril who had 5 tackles and 2 sacks. Leonard Cohen and Daniel Bullocks would also chime in with sacks for D.

The Lions were not able to do much with AP between the 20's as he had 133 yards, but inside the red zone the Lions D was great as AP was held up and Jackson couldn't get the ball in through the air.

Quite a huge win for the team.

[DeToxRox]

Week 2 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Drew Brees (New Orleans) 21/33 for 385 yards, 4 TD

DEFENSE: CB Rashean Mathis (Jacksonville) 2 INT, FF, TD

[DeToxRox]

Week 3: Detroit Lions (1-1) vs Washington Redskins (1-1)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: B. Johnson
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Jansen
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherlius

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Foote
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Detroit 34 - Washington 21

Matthew Stafford may as well get his Rookie of the Year trophy tomorrow because he has become a monster. Vs a solid Skins defense Stafford was electric, going 25/38 for 425 yards with 4 TD and no INT's!

While the Skins were able to contain the Lions run game, holding them to just 44 total yards on the ground, Stafford picked apart the Skins in impressive fashion, with Calvin Johnson catching 9 balls for 165 yards and a score. Recently acquired Ike Hilliard had 5 grabs for 45 yards and a score, while Keary Colbert came in because of injuries with 4 grabs for 49 yards and 2 TD. Also of note was Brandon Pettigrew catching 3 balls for 90 yards.

Meanwhile Louis Delmas might be getting a Defensive Rookie of the Year trophy if he keeps this up. He had 3 tackles and a sack, while Grady Jackson also added a sack and Cliff Avril had half of a sack himself.

Just an all around great game for the Lions.

[DeToxRox]

Week 3 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Matthew Stafford (Detroit) 28/35 for 425 yards, 4 TD

DEFENSE: MLB Patrick Williams (San Francisco) 17 tackles, INT, FF

[DeToxRox]

Week 3: Post Game Note

- RT Gosder Cherius has dislocated his ankle and will be out for 3 weeks. Because of this Jon Jasen will slide back over to RT and Damian Cook will take over at LG.

[DeToxRox]

Week 4: Detroit Lions (2-1) @ Chicago Bears (1-2)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Jansen

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Foote
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Chicago 9 - Detroit 6 (OT)

Stafford took a step down today, though it was rainy, sloppy day in Chicago and the Bears D brought it's A game. Stafford was 17/26 for 166 yards and an INT. Just not his best work but it's too be expected from a rookie QB.

Kevin Smith carried 21 times for 60 yards, but the Bears keyed in on the run and was able to keep Smith in check.

As usual, Calvin Johnson was solid with 4 grabs for 73 yards as he looks to have his first Pro Bowl invite at seasons end. Outside of Calvin though no other receiver did much and it came back to bite them.

On D Jordon Dizon had his best game as a pro with 14 tackles, while Delmas had 9 tackles with 4 assists. Meanwhile Devries, Darby and Sims each had sacks, but the Bears were able to do just enough to get into FG range in OT and pull it out.

[DeToxRox]

Week 4: Post Game Notes

- Part of Stafford and Smiths problems were the fact that Starting LT Jeff Backus tore his bicep and is out 6 weeks, while his backup Daniel Loper dislocated his hip and is now out 9 weeks. We have both starting tackles out and our #1 backup. It'll have to be time to get creative.

[DeToxRox]

Week 4 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Tom Brady (New England) 27/41 for 407 yards, 6 TD

DEFENSE: CB Corey Webster (New York) 3 tackles, INT

[DeToxRox]

Around the NFL: Quarter Year Report

Standings

NFC North

1. Green Bay: 3-1
2. Chicago: 2-2
3. Detroit: 2-2
4. Minnesota: 1-3

NFC South

1. New Orleans: 4-0
2. Carolina: 2-1
3. Atlanta: 2-1
4. Tampa Bay: 0-4

NFC East

1. Dallas: 4-0
2. New York: 3-1
3. Washington: 2-2
4. Philadelphia: 1-2

NFC West

1. Arizona: 2-1
2. San Francisco: 2-2
3. Seattle: 2-2
4. St. Louis: 1-3

AFC North

1. Pittsburgh: 2-2
2. Baltimore: 2-2
3. Cleveland: 2-2
4. Cincinnati: 1-3

AFC South

1. Tennessee: 4-0
2. Houston: 3-1
3. Indianapolis: 3-1
4. Jacksonville: 1-3

AFC East

1. New England: 2-2
2. New York: 1-3
3. Miami: 1-3
4. Buffalo: 1-3

AFC West

1. San Diego: 3-1
2. Denver: 2-2
3. Kansas City: 1-3
4. Oakland: 0-4

Key Injuries

- WR Brandon Marshall (Denver) out 5 weeks with a Herniated Disk
- LE Darnell Dockett (Arizona) out 8 weeks wth a Herniated Disk
- DT Albert Haynesworth (Washington) out 9 weeks with Partial MCL Tear
- QB Jason Campbell (Washington) out for season with Broken Ankle
- RG Chris Snee (New York) out for season with Severe Concussion

[DeToxRox]

Week 5: Detroit Lions (2-2) vs Pittsburgh Steelers (2-2)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Jansen

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Foote
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Pittsburgh 31 - Detroit 13

Welcome to the NFL Matthew Stafford. The Steelers held him to 146 yards, sacking him 4 times and picking him off once in the 31-13 route. Kevin Smith had a little more luck, with 15 carries for 53 yards but we were down early and had to throw too much.

Calvin Johnson was solid again with 5 grabs for 70 yards but couldn't make the big play when we needed it. Pettigrew had 2 catches for 37 yards. Together they were the only two players with multiple catches.

On Defense Louis Delmas continues to impress with 5 solo tackles, 2 assists and an INT, and Jordon Dizon had 8 solo tackles with 2 assists replacing Larry Foote who is out for the year with a fractured elbow.

Just one of those days.

[DeToxRox]

Week 5 Post Game Notes

- We place Larry Foote on IR with his fractured elbow. We need another MLB so we cut Keary Colbert, our 6th WR, and we sign rookie undrafted FA MLB Dannell Ellerebee out of Georgia.

[DeToxRox]

Week 5 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: RB Brandon Jacobs (Giants) 23 carries for 264 yards, TD

DEFENSE: CB Mike Jenkins (Cowboys) 1 tackle, 1 INT

[DeToxRox]

Week 6: Detroit Lions (2-3) vs Green Bay Packers (3-1)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Jansen

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Dizon
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Green Bay 31 - Detroit 10

Matthew Stafford did what he could today but it wasn't enough as Green Bay beat Detroit easily, 31-10. Stafford was 15/36 for 212 yards with a TD, and Kevin Smith picked up 80 yards on 18 carries but the Lions couldn't punch the ball in when they needed to and they fall easily.

Calvin Johnson was held in check with 2 catches for 44 yards, though he did have a 24 yard TD grab. Derrick Williams showed his penchant for big plays with 1 grab for 43 yards, and Ike Hilliard was beyond solid with 5 grabs for 93 yards but once again we couldn't get scores when we needed them.

Jordon Dizon was solid in his first career start with 7 solo tackles and 3 assists, while Cliff Avril added a sack but beyond those two guys no one else did much of note.

Two ugly losses in a row, not unexpected but still not good.

[DeToxRox]

Week 6 Post Game Notes

- The OL takes another hit as Jon Jansen is done for the season with a complete ACL tear.

[DeToxRox]

Week 6 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Tom Brady (Patriots) 21/35 for 372 yards, 3 TD

DEFENSE: MLB Niko Koutouvides (Bucs) 7 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 FF

[DeToxRox]

Week 7 Players of the Week

- Lions had a bye this week

OFFENSE: QB Peyton Manning (Colts) 30/46 for 407 yards, 4 TD

DEFENSE: MLB Patrick Willis (49ers) 16 tackles, INT, FF

[DeToxRox]

Week 8: Detroit Lions (2-4) vs St. Louis Rams (2-5)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherilus

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Dizon
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Detroit 27 - St. Louis 24

Down 10 with 14 minutes to go in the fourth quarter, rookie QB Matthew Stafford engineered three scoring drives, leading to two Jason Hanson FG's and an Ike Hilliard TD to give the Lions a 27-24 win.

Stafford was efficient as he was 14/20 for 172 yards with 3 TD. Meanwhile Kevin Smith had 24 carries for 121 yards for his best effort of the season by far.

Calvin Johnson had 5 grabs for 86 yards on the day while Ike Hilliard had 4 grabs for 58 yards and 2 TD. Also scoring was Derrick Williams who had 1 catch for 6 yards, getting a TD on the play.

Meanwhile the defense registered 6 sacks, with 3 each from Dwayne White and Chuck Darby. Ernie Sims would lead the team with 6 tackles plus an assist, and Louis Delmas added 5 solo tackles and 2 assist of his own.

This was an all around good effort to get us off of the snide.

[DeToxRox]

Week 8: Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Kurt Warner (Cardinals) 32/37 for 461 yards, 3 TD

DEFENSE: MLB Jonathan Vilma (Saints) 8 tackles, 2 FF

[DeToxRox]

Around the NFL: Midyear Report

Standings

NFC North

1. Green Bay: 5-2
2. Chicago: 4-3
3. Detroit: 3-4
4. Minnesota: 1-7

NFC South

1. New Orleans: 6-1
2. Carolina: 3-4
3. Atlanta: 3-4
4. Tampa Bay: 1-6

NFC East

1. Dallas: 7-0
2. Washington: 5-2
3. New YorK: 5-3
4. Philadelphia: 4-3

NFC West

1. Arizona: 6-1
2. San Francisco: 4-3
3. Seattle: 2-5
4. St. Louis: 2-6

AFC North

1. Pittsburgh: 5-2
2. Baltimore: 4-3
3. Cleveland: 3-5
4. Cincinnati: 2-5

AFC South

1. Tennessee: 6-1
2. Indianapolis: 5-2
3. Jacksonville: 3-4
4. Houston: 3-5

AFC East

1. New England: 4-3
2. Buffalo: 4-4
3. Miami: 2-5
4. New York: 2-6

AFC West

1. San Diego: 6-1
2. Denver: 4-3
3. Kansas City: 1-6
4. Oakland: 1-7

Key Injuries

- QB Jason Campbell (Washington) out for season with Broken Ankle
- RG Chris Snee (New York) out for season with Severe Concussion
- OLB Brian Orakpo (Washington) out for season with Partial ACL Tear

MVP Race

#1 - QB Tom Brady (Pats) 2339 yards, 20 TD - 7 INT
#2 - QB Todd Collins (Skins) 2047 yards, 21 TD - 7 INT
#3 - QB Drew Brees (Saints) 1877 yards, 17 TD - 3 INT
#4 - QB Eli Manning (Giants) 1857 yards, 13 TD - 3 INT
#5 - QB Aaron Rodgers (Packers) 1917 yards, 16 TD - 5 INT

[DeToxRox]

Week 9: Detroit Lions (3-4) @ Seattle Seahawks (2-5)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherilus

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Dizon
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Detroit 22 - Seattle 14

It was a brutal, bloody battle in Seattle that saw 5 QB's see action due to a slew of injuries. Matthew Safford battled, going 13/20 for 140 yards with 2 TD - 1 INT. He did end up getting injured for a quarter but came back to complete two second half TD passes and clinch the win for Detroit.

Seattle meanwhile lost Hasselbeck with a concussion for 2 weeks and Seneca Wallace for the season with a broken tailbone, leaving their 3rd QB in for the fourth quarter which was doomsday for them.

Kevin Smith was decent with 62 yards on 19 carries, but nothing special there.

Calvin Johnson was held to 2 catches, but he gained 82 yards on those catches, including a 43 yard TD grab. Ike Hilliard also scored a TD.

On defense Louis Delmas had 10 solo tackles, and Jordon Dizon also had 10 solo tackles before going out for the season with a torn tricep. Ernie Sims was the MVP of the game though with 4 tackles, 2 sacks and an INT. Dwayne White and Cliff Avril would also garner sacks for the Lions.

[DeToxRox]

Week 9 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers) 24/37 for 289 yards, 4 TD

DEFENSE: MLB Jerod Mayo (Patriots) 12 tackles, 2 sacks, FR

[DeToxRox]

Week 10: Detroit Lions (4-4) @ Minnesota Vikings (1-7)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherilus

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Elerebee
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Minnesota 16 - Detroit 10

Matthew Stafford had his worse game as an NFL QB going just 10/21 for 123 yards with 2 INT vs a stingy Vikes D who finally showed up after being beaten around all year.

Kevin Smith moved the ball on the ground with his best game by far, gaining 123 yards on just 14 carries. Maurice Morris would also run for 12 yards and a score when he spelled Smith.

Despite just 123 yards from Stafford, Calvin Johnson had 5 grabs for 93 yards. Too bad no one else could do anything.

On defense, rookie DeAndre Levy who is playing a lot at all 3 positions had 11 tackles, 4 assists, 2 TFL and a sack. Sims, Devries and White would also add sacks on the day. Rookie Louis Delmas would add 6 solo tackles as he helped contain AP somewhat. Peterson did manage a score in the air though but was held under 100 total yards.

[DeToxRox]

Week 10 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers) 28/40 for 385 yards, 3 TD

DEFENSE: EJ Henderson (Vikings) 9 tackles, INT, 3 FF

[DeToxRox]

Week 11: Detroit Lions (4-5) vs Cleveland Browns (4-5)


Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherilus

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Elerebee
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Cleveland 16 - Detroit 10

Identical to the Vikes game, our D plays well but we can't score when we need a TD. Stafford plays much better going 15/23 for 150 yards, and a TD.

Kevin Smith had 20 carries for 72 yards but no scores yet again. We have to find away to get him to punch it in because he's running well as of late.

Calvin Johnson was held to just 1 catch for 1 yard but that was a TD grab he had in the back of the endzone. If he can't get loose we're totally screwed though as today surely indicated.

Dwayne White had 2 sacks, while Bullocks and Avril also brought down Brady Quinn, and Anthony Henry had our first INT in a few games, but it was all for naught today. One good note though was rookie Ellerbe had 10 tackles and 3 assists. He just might be an asset yet.

[DeToxRox]

Week 11 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Donovan McNabb (Eagles) 25/43 for 402 yards, 3 TD

DEFENSE: SS Lawyer Milloy (Jaguars) 8 tackles, INT

[DeToxRox]

Week 12: Detroit Lions (4-6) vs Green Bay Packers (7-3)


Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherilus

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Elerebee
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Green Bay 17 - Detroit 7

The big news coming out of this game was that Aaron Rodgers partially tore his ACL and will be out for 11 weeks. Besides that, it was the same as usual for us. Stafford was 12/23 for 157 yards with 1 TD - 3 INT. Ever since I decided to run a bit more to save Stafford we have been bleh so it's time to change that going into this next game.

Calvin was held to 3 grabs for 27 yards, while Adam Jennings did manage a TD grab.

Dannell Ellerbe was solid again with 11 solo tackles and a TFL. Darby and Jackson each had a sack and Ernie Sims and Anthony Henry combined for a sack between them.

[DeToxRox]

Around the NFL: 3/4 Report


Standings

NFC North

1. Green Bay: 8-3
2. Chicago: 5-6
3. Detroit: 4-7
4. Minnesota: 3-8

NFC South

1. New Orleans: 8-3
2. Atlanta: 6-5
3. Carolina: 5-6
4. Tampa Bay: 3-8

NFC East

1. Dallas: 10-1
2. Philadelphia: 7-4
3. New YorK: 7-4
4. Washington: 5-6

NFC West

1. Arizona: 8-3
2. San Francisco: 7-4
3. St. Louis: 4-7
4. Seattle: 3-8

AFC North

1. Pittsburgh: 8-3
2. Baltimore: 6-5
3. Cleveland: 6-5
4. Cincinnati: 3-8

AFC South

1. Tennessee: 7-4
2. Indianapolis: 7-4
3. Houston: 5-6
4. Jacksonville: 4-7

AFC East

1. New England: 8-3
2. Buffalo: 5-6
3. New York: 3-8
4. Miami: 3-8

AFC West

1. Denver: 7-4
2. San Diego: 6-5
3. Kansas City: 3-8
4. Oakland: 2-9

Key Injuries

- RE Haloti Ngata (Baltimore) out 8 weeks with a Fractured Toe
- MLB Karlos Dansby (Arizona) out 9 weeks with a Dislocated Hip
- QB Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay) out 11 weeks with a Partial ACL Tear
- QB Jason Campbell (Washington) out for season with Broken Ankle
- RG Chris Snee (New York) out for season with Severe Concussion
- OLB Brian Orakpo (Washington) out for season with Partial ACL Tear

MVP Race

#1 QB Tom Brady (Patriots) 3379 yards, 29 TD - 11 INT
#2 QB Donovan McNabb (Eagles) 2944 yards, 28 TD - 8 INT
#3 QB Drew Brees (Saints) 2884 yards, 25 TD - 7 INT
#4 QB Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers) 2605 yards, 25 TD - 11 INT
#5 QB Peyton Manning (Colts) 2879 yards, 23 TD - 9 INT

[DeToxRox]

Week 13: Detroit Lions (4-7) @ Cincinnati Bengals (3-8)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherilus

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Elerebee
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Cincinnati 38 - Detroit 19

Matthew Stafford relished in being able to air it out today, going 20/35 for 283 yards with 1 TD - 1 INT, but unfortunately the defense finally bottomed out after playing well all year and gave up 38 to the hapless Bengals.

Calvin Johnson was great with 10 grabs for 125 yards but couldn't get in the endzone. Ike Hilliard however did score, as he had 5 grabs for 95 yards plus the touchdown.

Defensively the only thing of note was Ernie Sims who again was great with 6 solo tackles, 2 TFL, Sack and a FF.

[DeToxRox]

Week 13: Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Drew Brees (Saints) 27/45 for 351 yards, 4 TD

DEFENSE: MLB John Digirorgio (Jaguars) 13 tackles, INT, FF

[DeToxRox]

Week 14: Detroit Lions (4-8) vs @ Baltimore Ravens (6-6)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Stafford
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherilus

LE: Avril
DT: Jackson
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Elerebee
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Baltimore 17 - Detroit 3

We lose Matt Stafford for the remainder of the year with a Fractured Elbow and Gus Frerotte came in only to be sacked 6 times. Just an ugly, ugly game.

The Ravens D held Kevin Smith to 19 yards on 13 carries. That's how ugly it was.

Calvin did manage 5 grabs for 45 yards but everything else was all for naught.

On D Delmas had 5 solo stops, and Levey and Ellerbe each had 8 solo tackles but with Stafford out it's hard to even be excited about that.

[DeToxRox]

Week 14 Post Game Notes

- We'll just play Frerotte from here on out. Stafford is IR'd.

- Grady Jackson is banged up so he'll be shut down for the rest of the year and we'll let some kids play.

[DeToxRox]

Week 14 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Trent Edwards (Bills) 29/42 for 339 yards and 3 TD

DEFENSE: OLB Kawika Mitchell (Bills) 9 tackles, 2 FF

[DeToxRox]

Detroit Lions (4-9) vs Arizona Cardinals (9-4)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Frerotte
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherilus

LE: Avril
DT: Cohen
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Elerebee
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Arizona 24 - Detroit 19

Kevin Smith runs 30 times for just 72 yards, but he did enough to keep the chains moving we just couldn't do enough to score, a problem we have had all season long.

Calvin Johnson didn't miss a beat though with 6 catches for 105 yards and a TD as Frerotte just kept feeding him the ball as he should.

On D we sacked Warner 6 times, with Peterson notching 2, Cohen having 1.5, Henry and White having 1, and Ernie Sims getting a half sack.

Sims also managed 13 solo tackles with 3 assists and a TFL. Louis Delmas was also solid with 8 solo tackles and 2 assists.

[DeToxRox]

Week 15 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Drew Brees (Saints) 29/42 for 372 yards, 4 TD

DEFENSE: SS James Butler (Rams) 4 tackles, 2 INT

[DeToxRox]

Week 16: Detroit Lions (4-10) @ San Francisco 49'ers (8-6)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Frerotte
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherilus

LE: Avril
DT: Cohen
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Elerebee
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

San Francisco 20 - Detroit 10

The 49'ers D held us to under 125 yards of total offense as we're just a lost cause with Gus at QB. Case in point, they loaded the box and held Smith to 22 yards on 21 carries. Ugly.

Calvin managed to get 3 grabs for 52 yards and a TD but he was it. Only two other players had receptions, one was Pettigrew and the other was the FB Terrelle Smith.

Ellerbe had 12 tackles with 3 assists, and Sims continued his strong play with 9 solo tackles and 2 assists but that was it.

[DeToxRox]

Week 16 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Tom Brady (Patriots) 25/33 for 234 yards, 6 TD

DEFENSE: CB Andre Goodman (Broncos) 1 tackle, 2 INT

[DeToxRox]

Week 17: Detroit Lions (4-11) @ Chicago Bears (6-9)

Detroit Starting Lineup

QB: Frerotte
RB: K. Smith
FB: T. Smith
WR1: C. Johnson
WR2: Hilliard
TE: B. Pettigrew
LT: Backus
LG: Cook
C: Raiola
RG: Peterman
RT: Cherilus

LE: Avril
DT: Cohen
DT: Darby
RE: White
LOLB: Sims
MLB: Elerebee
ROLB: Peterson
CB1: Henry
CB2: Buchanon
FS: Bullocks
SS: Delmas

Chicago 24 - Detroit 16

The offense is a failure again to end the year. Only offensive stat to note is Calvin had 4 grabs for 60 yards. That's it.

Our D was solid with 6 sacks but we didn't do enough to get by. White had 2 sacks, Avril, Darby, Peterson and Cohen all had a sack each.

Ellerbe lead the way with 9 solo tackles, while Sims had 6.

[DeToxRox]

Week 17 Players of the Week

OFFENSE: QB Kerry Collins (Titans) 30/42 for 326 yards, 5 TD

DEFENSE: MLB Keith Brooking (Cowboys) 11 tackles, sack, FF