10.) Gary Danielson/Eric Hipple
Outside of one season between 1978-1986 either Danielson or Hipple was the Lions starting signal-caller. The reason I combined the two together was that the results were nearly indistinguishable and they both had some good individual games, but neither was unable to carry the team to a championship.
Danielson was probably the better overall passer while Hipple was more mobile and able to create some opportunities on the move. Together they helped muster the Lions to two playoff appearances and one division title.
They, of course, lost both playoff games although the 1983 game in San Francisco against a very good 49ers team came down to the infamous missed field goal by Eddie Murray. It was a kick he would have normally made nine out of ten times. I guess that was unlucky number 10.
In a weak position grouping, Danielson and Hipple combined are good enough to be number 10.