The Lions kick off the 2020 season Sunday against the Bears, so we asked our hosts to weigh in with their predictions.
Spoiler alert: they don't see this team making the playoffs. And if you're ready for a regime change, maybe that's for the best. Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia won't survive another losing season.
Around the horn we go, starting in the morning.
Stoney
I see the Lions improving from last season's debacle. I believe they will have an excellent passing game and will run the football a little better. The obvious question is can they rush the passer enough to make up for the loss of Darius Slay? Will this defense hold up? They seem to have more faith in Matt Patricia than they did in the past. I still don't think it will be enough to improve more than 5 wins.
8-8.
Riger
If Matthew Stafford stays healthy, the Lions will be in playoff contention until the end. Stafford has ample weapons this season that should provide fans with one of the best Detroit offenses in recent history. However, their defense will let them down yet again and the Lions will fail to make the postseason, even with the extra playoff spot given in 2020.
7-9.
Karsch
The offense will be prolific if they can block at all. The man who led the NFL in TD receptions is underrated; I don't know how that's possible, but it's the truth about Kenny Golladay. T.J. Hockenson turns into a real weapon with Stafford in command. The only path to greatness goes through new DC Cory Undlin and (as many as) seven new defensive starters -- I'll believe it when I see it.
8-8.
Gator
I fully expect the Lions offense to move the ball downfield and score plenty of points. A healthy Matthew Stafford takes care of any woes on that side of the field. It's the defense that presents the biggest challenge, yet one that if they were merely mediocre would provide a playoff berth. They will be better, just not enough to make it to the postseason. Lions start off strong, but a horrendous 1-4 record down the stretch results in wholesale changes after the season.
8-8.
Valenti
Stafford will be awesome, defense will cost them just enough to miss the playoffs.
7-9.
Wojo
I think the Lions are moderately improved, and if they can turn a few close losses into close victories, they can make a leap. I expect Matthew Stafford to take a leap. The offensive line scares me.
8-8.
Caputo
Really good offense, but soft front 7 on defense. Just enough to save Quinn and Patricia.
8-8.
