1997-2001
Jan 28, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; NFL former Charlie Batch is interviewed on radio row before Super Bowl XLIX at the Phoenix Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
1997
Scott Mitchell threw four interceptions in a game that the Lions somehow managed to stay in through the whole battle. Sanders rushed for 105 yards and still couldn’t punch one into the end zone in Green Bay. Brett Farve’s one touchdown and one interception wasn’t his best performance ever. It was the Packers defense that put the W in the win column on this go around.
1998
If you weren’t sick of Brett Farve yet, you would be on this day yet again. Farve’s 277 yards and two touchdowns ruled the day. By the time the Lions offense got going, the Lions were already down 17-6. Scott Mitchell threw another interception and Barry Sanders didn’t get into the end zone yet again and never would in Wisconsin. At this point, the games are pretty predictable.
1999
Gus Ferrotte gave it a go in 1999 and wound up throwing two interceptions and blowing a 14-6 lead in the second half. Barry Sanders shocking retirement tore the team apart and they never quite rebounded from that loss despite making the playoffs this particular season. Brett Farve was really good again, what else can I say?
2000
Ryan Longwell vs Jason Hanson was the story of this game. Both kickers dominated the games first three quarters with five field goals between the two. Ahman Green took over in the fourth quarter putting up both the Packers touchdowns of the day. Oh yeah, the Lions turned the ball over 5 times. There seems to be a pattern here.
Five thoughts on the Lions firing their GM and President
2001
Ahman Green took over this game by putting up 177 total yards of offense as well as two touchdowns. The Lions did nothing but turn the ball over three times and allow Charlie Batch to get sacked seven times. Brett Farve threw for 260 yards and two touchdowns.
Next: 2002-2006