As the 2016 NFL season approaches, the Detroit Lions are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2015 campaign. The team finished with a 7-9 record and missed the playoffs for the second straight year. With a new general manager and head coach in place, the Lions have a chance to turn things around and make a run at the postseason. However, they will need to address several key areas if they hope to be successful. In this article, we will examine the Detroit Lions team needs for the 2016 season and what they need to do to win.
The Offense
Improve the Offensive Line
One of the biggest issues for the Lions last season was the offensive line. Quarterback Matthew Stafford was sacked a league-high 44 times, and the team struggled to establish a consistent running game. The Lions made some moves in the offseason to address this need, signing free agent offensive tackle Ricky Wagner and drafting guard Frank Ragnow in the first round. If the offensive line can improve, it will give Stafford more time in the pocket and open up opportunities for the running game.
Establish a Running Game
The Lions ranked last in the league in rushing yards per game last season, averaging just 81.9 yards per game. This lack of a running game made the team one-dimensional and easier to defend. The addition of Ragnow and veteran running back LeGarrette Blount should help improve the running game. If the Lions can establish a consistent ground attack, it will take pressure off of Stafford and make the offense more balanced.
The Defense
Improve the Pass Rush
The Lions ranked 20th in the league in sacks last season, with just 26.5. Defensive end Ziggy Ansah was the team leader with just 2.0 sacks. The Lions need to generate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks if they hope to be successful on defense. The addition of free agent defensive end Trey Flowers should help in this regard, but the rest of the defensive line will need to step up as well.
Get More Turnovers
The Lions ranked near the bottom of the league in turnovers forced last season, with just 14. Creating turnovers can be a game-changer, giving the offense more opportunities to score and giving the defense a boost of confidence. The Lions need to be more aggressive in creating turnovers, whether it be through interceptions or forced fumbles. If they can do this, it will be a major step forward for the defense.
The Coaching
Establish a Winning Culture
One of the biggest challenges for new head coach Matt Patricia will be establishing a winning culture in Detroit. The Lions have not won a playoff game since 1991 and have had just one winning season in the past five years. Patricia comes from the New England Patriots, where winning is expected. He will need to instill that same mindset in his players if the Lions are going to be successful. If the team can believe in themselves and in their coach, it will go a long way towards achieving their goals.
Maximize Player Talent
The Lions have some talented players on both sides of the ball, but they have not always been utilized to their full potential. Patricia will need to identify the strengths of each player and put them in positions to succeed. This could mean utilizing different formations or plays to take advantage of a player's skill set. If Patricia can get the most out of his players, the Lions will be a much more dangerous team.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions have a lot of work to do if they hope to be successful in 2016. They will need to improve the offensive line, establish a running game, generate more pass rush, create more turnovers, establish a winning culture, and maximize player talent. While this is a tall order, it is not impossible. If the Lions can address these needs and play to their full potential, they could surprise a lot of people this season.
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