WoodyWoodriffe's Blog

Hi there NFL'ers--

Well Lions fans, here we are again.... that sacred time of year where teams replenish their stock---  I'm talking NFL Draft, and that instantly brings to mind the Detroit Lions!!!  We all know what has happened in the past with picks and with the personnel making those decisions, so a re-hash here is not necessary...... but starting from this point in time, I feel that the Lions need to develop the offensive line and this time really commit to it--- I forsee a "Denver-type" of system where average running backs can become good ones because of the line play!!!!  That would instantly give the Lions an identity within the league, and isn't that what we all want???  Yes!!, but back to the draft.... having said all that, MY LIONS would select the best offensive lineman available with the first 3 picks and then go after some corners who are over 6-1....... because I'm sick of getting beat by tall recievers!!!  YOUR LIONS with the 15th pick in the draft will probably take Rashard Mendenhall from Illinois--- this guy set Fighting Illini rushing records for most yardage(1,681) and touchdowns (17) last year, and his low to the ground running style is probably something that Detroit head coach Rod Marinelli is drooling over.  Mendenhall could also attract the Lions attention with his north-south running..... many feel that he doesn't have enough to get to the corner..... but will survive inside thanks to his cut back ability.  He could also see action in the passing game because of his good "hands"-- stats tell us that moving from 12 receptions as a sophomore to 34 as a junior puts you in line for the screen pass--- something that the Lions use with regularity....... and finally in Mendenhall's favor is the fact that Tatum Bell is currently listed as the Lions starting running back-- so he could provide an immediate 1-2 run punch... which is also someting that Marinelli craves.  Again, this is just my guess for draft day, not my wish--- but where the Lions are concerned, I am hoping that guesses and wishes open the door to consistency and ultimately, winning football (how desperate is that!-- I'm so ashamed!)..... Another step will be taken on saturday, will Detroit stumble??  What do you think "Mock-drafters"?? I know you have an opinion!!!

--Woody