7 Reasons the Lions Will Be a Dumpster Fire in 2016

Matthew Stafford took a beating last season, due to poor offensive line play. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
Matthew Stafford took a beating last season, due to poor offensive line play. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
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Aug 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy (95) attempts to tackle Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) during the second quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy (95) attempts to tackle Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) during the second quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

2. Kyle Van Noy is the Starting Strong Side Linebacker

Kyle Van Noy has probably been the biggest draft disappointment in recent years. The second round pick has only managed to play special teams through his first two seasons. He can’t play pass defense, which means in today’s NFL, he can’t play defense. While early offseason reports show that he seems to be getting it on defense now, the smart money is still on KVN riding the pine and contributing on special teams. That means Josh Bynes should still be playing too many meaningful reps. On the bright side, strong side linebacker is the one position on the defense that plays the fewest snaps, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be exploited when the Lions are in their base 4-3.

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