Lions: Don't Look In The Mirror

After a preseason in which the Lions looked absolutely dominate in all phases of the game, Jon Kitna and company are being exposed for what they are-A team with numerous weaknesses. After two weeks into the NFL season here's what we know.

The defense is bad, very bad. After two weeks the Lions rank 31st in total defense. The front seven doesn't scare anyone and teams with average to good offensive lines can gash the defense for 4 yard per carry. It's hard to win when opposing offenses are constantly facing 2nd and 4 or 3rd and 2. Oh yea, the Lions haven't even seen Adrian Peterson yet. Lets see if the Viks even attempt a pass in week 6.

Marinelli's men e.i. Chuck Darby, Kalvin Pearson, Dwight Smith, Dwayne White, Brian Kelly...haven't made the team better. During the Offseason we heard, "These guys have experience in the system." Maybe the Lions are running the wrong system. Yes, the Tampa 2 has produced two Superbowls this decade (Indianapolis, Tampa Bay) but the Lions simply don't have the personnel for this system. The Lions lack the pass rush that Colts and Bucs Superbowl teams had.

Calvin Johnson isn't filling his potential. No, even with the second most receiving yards in the NFL, Johnson could do better. With all that speed and athletic ability he should be getting 5 or 6 yards of separation on defenders, right now that's not happening. Anyone who watched the Monday Night game between the Eagles and Cowboys witnessed both Terrell Owens and DeSean Jackson get at least 5 yards of separation from the secondary. Johnson has this ability, but because of the limited amount of time Kitna has to throw the ball, in addition to two high safeties the Lions face, Johnson can't get deep.

Kevin Smith has heart. He could be something to watch if the offensive line opens up wholes for him. He has a hunger, a burst.

This week the Lions travel to San Fransisco to face the 49ers. Two teams in transition. If Detroit goes into the bye week 0-3, look out there could be some changes in the front office.

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