The Detroit Lions have had some amazing receivers throughout their history, but the 2011 team was particularly special. They had a group of talented athletes who could catch just about anything thrown their way, and they helped lead the team to a playoff appearance that year. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best Detroit Lions receivers from the 2011 season and what made them so successful.
Calvin Johnson: The Megatron
When you think of the Detroit Lions receivers from 2011, the first name that probably comes to mind is Calvin Johnson. Johnson, also known as "Megatron," was one of the most dominant wide receivers in the NFL during his career, and 2011 was one of his best seasons. That year, he caught 96 passes for 1,681 yards and 16 touchdowns. He also set an NFL record by recording eight straight games with over 100 receiving yards.
So what made Johnson so special? For starters, he was an absolute physical specimen. At 6'5" and 235 pounds, he was bigger and stronger than just about every defensive back in the league. He also had incredible hands and body control, which allowed him to make acrobatic catches that most other receivers couldn't make. But perhaps the most impressive thing about Johnson was his work ethic. He was known for his tireless preparation and dedication to his craft, which allowed him to make the most of his physical gifts.
Nate Burleson: The Reliable Veteran
While Johnson was the star of the show in 2011, he couldn't have done it all on his own. That's where Nate Burleson came in. Burleson was a veteran receiver who had played for several other teams before joining the Lions in 2010. In 2011, he caught 73 passes for 757 yards and three touchdowns. While those numbers may not be as impressive as Johnson's, Burleson was a reliable target for quarterback Matthew Stafford, especially on third downs.
What made Burleson so valuable was his versatility. He was a sure-handed receiver who could play both in the slot and on the outside. He was also a willing blocker in the run game, which helped open up holes for the Lions' running backs. But perhaps the most important thing about Burleson was his leadership. He was a respected veteran in the locker room who helped keep the team focused and motivated throughout the season.
Titus Young: The Speedster
One of the more underrated receivers on the 2011 Lions team was Titus Young. Young was a rookie that year, but he quickly made a name for himself as one of the fastest players on the team. He caught 48 passes for 607 yards and six touchdowns that season, but his impact went beyond the stat sheet.
What made Young so dangerous was his speed. He was a threat to take the top off a defense on any given play, which opened up the field for the other receivers. He was also a solid route-runner who could create separation from defenders. Unfortunately, Young's career was derailed by off-the-field issues, but there's no denying that he was a key part of the Lions' success in 2011.
In Conclusion
The 2011 Detroit Lions had a trio of talented receivers who helped lead the team to one of its best seasons in recent memory. Calvin Johnson was the star of the show, but Nate Burleson and Titus Young were just as important in their own ways. Together, they formed one of the most dynamic receiving corps in the NFL that year, and they helped pave the way for future success in Detroit.
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