Millen inherited a pretty solid team, although quarterback Charlie Batch has been inconsistent and unable to stay healthy. Batch lacks mobility and takes way to many sacks. It will be interesting to see how well he picks up the new West Coast offense installed by Mornhinweg. The Lions have been trying to swing a deal with the Cleveland Browns for backup Ty Detmer.

The Lions are solid at wide receiver and will use a lot of three-receiver sets. Johnnie Morton Germane Crowell, and Herman Moore will be a handful for any team. They also have David Sloan and Pete Mitchell, who are both good pass receiving tight ends.

Running back James Stewart is a great back, but there is not a whole lot of talent behind him. The offensive line is very young and inexperienced, and could be prone to a lot of mistakes.

The strength of the team is probably the defensive line. Both Luther Elliss and Robert Porcher are former Pro Bowlers, and combined with Tracey Scroggins and James Jones, they form a very potent line. They will be solid against the run and should put consistent pressure on the passer. Unfortunately, they do not have a lot of overall speed on the rest of the defense.

The special teams units are exceptional as well. Punter John Jett and kicker Jason Hanson are among the best in the league, and Desmond Howard is a Pro Bowl punt and kick returner.

Overview

The Lions have a lot of good players, but they are still inconsistent at quarterback. Combine that with an inexperienced offensive line and they may have a tough time moving the ball consistently. James Stewart is a great back, but he won't be near as effective if the line can't open some holes for him.

The defense will be forced to play zone the majority of the time because of a lack of overall speed. They don't have many good cover guys, their linebackers might be a step slow, and the safeties aren't speedsters either. They just might get picked apart by the short passing game this year.

I think this team will be 8-8 at best!