When it comes to the Detroit Lions, the 90s were a decade of ups and downs. While the team didn't achieve the success they had hoped for during this time period, there were still plenty of memorable moments and notable players that left their mark on the franchise. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Detroit Lions record in the 90s, examining some of the highs and lows of this pivotal decade.
The Early Years: 1990-1992
The 90s started out on a high note for the Detroit Lions, with the team posting a 12-4 record in 1991 and earning their first playoff victory since 1957. Led by quarterback Erik Kramer and running back Barry Sanders, the Lions looked poised to make a serious run at the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, the team was knocked out in the NFC Championship game by the Washington Redskins, and they were unable to replicate their success in the following seasons.
In 1992, the Lions finished with a disappointing 5-11 record, missing the playoffs for the first time in three years. The team struggled on both sides of the ball, with the offense failing to find a consistent rhythm and the defense allowing an average of 25 points per game. Despite the setback, the Lions remained optimistic about their future prospects and continued to build towards a better tomorrow.
The Wayne Fontes Era: 1993-1996
A Return to the Playoffs
In 1993, the Lions bounced back with a vengeance, finishing the regular season with a 10-6 record and earning a wild card spot in the playoffs. Quarterback Scott Mitchell emerged as a key player for the team, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 32 touchdowns. The Lions were unable to advance past the first round of the playoffs, losing to the Green Bay Packers in a hard-fought battle.
A Disappointing End
The following years saw the Lions struggle to recapture the success of 1993, with the team posting a 9-7 record in 1994 and a 6-10 record in 1995. Despite these setbacks, the Lions remained committed to their goals and continued to build for the future. In 1996, the team posted a 5-11 record, marking the end of the Wayne Fontes era and the beginning of a new chapter in the franchise's history.
The Bobby Ross Era: 1997-2000
A Return to the Playoffs
In 1997, the Lions hired Bobby Ross as their new head coach, hoping to bring a new level of discipline and leadership to the team. The move paid off, as the Lions finished the regular season with a 9-7 record and earned a wild card spot in the playoffs. Led by quarterback Scott Mitchell and running back Barry Sanders, the Lions were able to advance past the first round of the playoffs, defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a thrilling game.
A Disappointing End
The next few years saw the Lions struggle to recapture the success of 1997, with the team posting a 5-11 record in 1998 and a 8-8 record in 1999. While the team showed flashes of brilliance during this time, they were ultimately unable to put together a sustained period of success. In 2000, the Lions finished with a 9-7 record, narrowly missing the playoffs and signaling the end of the Bobby Ross era.
Conclusion
While the Detroit Lions record in the 90s may not have been as impressive as some fans had hoped, there were still plenty of memorable moments and notable players that left their mark on the franchise. From the high-flying offense of 1991 to the disciplined play of the Bobby Ross era, the Lions showed that they were a team capable of great things. While it may have taken a few more years for the Lions to find sustained success, the foundation that was laid during the 90s helped set the stage for future triumphs to come.
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