Watching the Detroit Lions struggle through the game last night against Atlanta, I couldn't help but draw comparisons to the Tigers from 2007 (and 2008, 2009, 2010). Last year, the Lions made the playoffs for the first time since 1999 and gave the fan base hope that the worst was behind them. The Tigers made it to the World Series in 2006 before missing the playoffs the next four years, once again giving fans hope. Both seasons after the playoff year for the teams were a kick to the gut and ego. For the teams and the fans.
After the Lions made the playoffs last year, it seemed that everyone was high on them. From fans to the sports talking heads to the people within the organization, they were all ready to see consistent runs into the playoffs. And not just one and done years, but to go deep in the playoffs. The offense is there and ready for a shootout any given Sunday, but the defense is not. The lack of discipline and injuries week after week exposed them for what they really are: an immature group that needs to stay focused for sixteen weeks and beyond. Short of going out and getting free agents, they will have to build their defense through the draft. And by the time they develop some middle of the pack draft picks, the offense will need help. It's a vicious cycle.
As a lifelong fan of Detroit sports teams, I have grown custom to disappointment. The exception being the Red Wings who struggled when I was younger and I have little recollection of the 'Dead Wing' era as my dad called them. Outside of the Wings, the only championships I actually remember are all from the Pistons...and I can't stand basketball. Sure the Tigers won in 1984, but I was two at the time and as much as I would love to say I remember that year, not so much. I want to base my sports championship memories on World Series and Super Bowl wins, not just Stanley Cups and whatever the basketball championship trophy is called.
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