Detroit Lions: Roster breakdown, Week 1 against the Jets

THE JETS GAME

The Detroit Lions start off this season with a “must win” showdown against the Jets. Most of the anxiety with this team involves a tough schedule to start the year. Just looking at the next two games: a road face-off with the San Francisco 49ers and a Sunday night battle with the visiting New England Patriots could both be losses.

Losing this game against the Jets could mean starting 0 and 3 on the year. It would not be a good look. A win against the Jets, especially a convincing one, could get this team’s confidence to rise.

HANGING AROUND

The Detroit Lions need to keep their chances afloat by staying right around .500 for the first half of the season. If they do, they might sneak into the playoffs. If they don’t, this will be a long season indeed.

Could this team catch everyone off-guard and be special right from the gates? It could happen. What is more likely is that this year is just one step towards implementing the new vision of coach Patricia along with general manager Bob Quinn.

But it is difficult to be starting over again, especially when your franchise quarterback is entering his prime years. After so many years of heartache with this franchise, another year of mediocrity will be met with anger from the fans. But if this team is transformed as the year progresses, it will mean real hope for the future.

The Detroit Lions may not be a championship team this year. The younger players need to develop, the defensive schemes must take hold, and the run game has to show signs of life. It is a lot to ask.

Whatever happens, this year cannot be a waste. The Detroit Lions must begin the long journey to the Super Bowl now. That journey may not result in playoff wins this year, but they need to play great football by the end of this season. And then carry that forward.