Why the Detroit Lions can go from worst to first in 2019
Parity in the division
Many believe the NFC North to be one of the toughest in the NFL but it is also one that has had a different winner each of the last three years. The Lions are the only team to not win the title in the last five years. Detroit has been close, finishing second three of the previous five years according to the NFL website.
The Bears are the reigning division champions but don’t have as easy of a schedule this year nor will they sneak up on anyone as division champs. Both Chicago and Minnesota ranked above the Lions in team defense last year, while Green Bay was eighteenth. The division also sports three of the top-paid quarterbacks in the NFL, Aaron Rodgers, Kirk Cousins, and Stafford. In short, it’s anyone’s title to take.
Of course, the Lions had trouble with the Chicago Bears in 2018, losing both contests to them for the first time in over five years. That represents a big challenge for this year’s roster. The Lions were only a half-game behind Green Bay, two and a half behind the Minnesota Vikings, and six behind the Bears.
The Bears had little cap space to deal with, so while they are virtually the same as last year the Detroit Lions have been able to attempt to close the gap on them. The health of the Lions will be key, as well, to a more successful campaign. Quite a few starters are back and hopefully will contribute the second half of the season, unlike the previous year.
Next. Ranking the Detroit Lions’ first round picks since 2010. dark
What do you think will help the Detroit Lions get to the top of the NFC North and possible playoff success? Leave your answer in the comments section, below.