Detroit Lions: Ranking the top 10 quarterbacks in franchise history

9.) Scott Mitchell

Scott Mitchell is a name that lives in Detroit Lions’ infamy, however, between 1994-1998 he was productive on the field and led the Lions to three playoff appearances.

Mitchell earned the moniker of being lazy and immature and I’m not going to argue that. What he accomplished has as much to do with his supporting cast as anything else.

Barry Sanders in the backfield, Herman Moore, Brett Perriman and Johnnie Morton along with a solid offensive line in front of him gave him every opportunity to succeed.

When he was right, the lefty led a very prolific offense and until Matthew Stafford arrived what Mitchell accomplished in1995 was the greatest single statistical season in Lions history. But while there were plenty of big plays and moments, considering the talent surrounding him he definitely underachieved.

While he did lead the Lions to some big regular-season wins over some good teams, he also lost plenty of games with poor decisions and turnovers. He could have been much better with more focus and maturity, but hey, we all know the story.