Five Reasons Detroit Lions Will Contend

Aug 13, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; A general view of Ford Field before a preseason NFL football game between the Detroit Lions and the New York Jets at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

To some reading the headline might say, “Detroit? 0-16 and haven’t won a playoff game since 1991, AND they’ll contend? For what? ”

Let me explain. In my life there’s one thing that has remained constant through my twenty one years, Lions losing. However things change, and the Lions aren’t the only franchise that could turn it’s fortunes around magically, just look at the New Orleans Saints before they won their first Super Bowl.

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I’ve seen the laughable Matt Millen, and his obsession with wide receivers, I’ve seen Joey Harrington, Jeff Garcia and Daunte Culpepper once man the most important position in football, and look terrible doing so. I’ve seen the myth of Charles Rodgers, Kevin Jones and Kevin Smith all come together as busts.

The misfortune of the Lions is history. As dark as it is, It’s the past.

The Detroit Lions shouldn’t be an easy pick, after all they may play in the toughest division in football.

Green Bay is the class of the NFC North there’s no denying how great the Packers have been, they’ve won the NFC North five consecutive times, but the NFC North for the first time in years boasts three teams that could make a push for the NFC North title.

Detroit has it’s chance to win the North, but it will take a few things to climb that hurdle. Lions quarterback, Matthew Stafford has took the role as a leader this summer working out with his wide receivers and tight ends.

Jim Caldwell on Stafford coordinating workouts:

"“I think it is what it takes in this league for guys to grow closer together within a system. For them to take the initiative and work together, you see that amongst good teams. You don’t often hear about it, but believe me, behind the scenes, they’re doing it. They’re getting together and they’re working and perfecting their craft. Those are good signs.”"

So the question remains, how can the Detroit Lions a once proud franchise in the 50’s turn the franchise drastically around?

Next: Matthew Stafford, It's time to shine.