Morning Lions Links for Monday 12-31-18

Articles:

No surgery expected for banged up Lions QB Matthew Stafford:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/no-surgery-expected-for-banged-up-lions-qb-matthew-stafford.html

Inside the locker room: Owner Martha Firestone Ford breaks silence to commend finish:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/inside-the-locker-room-owner-martha-firestone-ford-breaks-silence-to-commend-finish.html

Ranking all 16 of the Detroit Lions' unrestricted free agents:  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/cc5ca3fbe31458/ranking-all-16-of-the-detroit.html

Here's what Lions must do to fix their mess:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2018/12/31/detroit-lions-matthew-stafford/2444837002/

Lions defense silver lining in disappointing year:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/detroit-lions-defense-packers/2444838002/

Prater's 'lollipop' TD pass came from Patriots:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/detroit-lions-borrow-pats-play-matt-praters-lollipop-td/2447310002/

GM Quinn on hot seat if Lions don't get better:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2018/12/30/detroit-lions-gm-bob-quinn-hot-seat-2019/2444842002/

Niyo: Shine tarnished, Lions' brass turn to critical offseason:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/john-niyo/2018/12/30/niyo-detroit-lions-brass-loses-its-shine-turns-critical-offseason/2446967002/

Pat Caputo - 5 things we learned during the Lions' dysfunctional 2018 season:  https://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/pat-caputo---things-we-learned-during-the-lions/article_ee8e7318-0c7d-11e9-8826-17e9f71b2295.html

Lions 2019 opponents finalized:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/30/lions-2019-opponents-finalized/

Matt Patricia proud of Lions for strong finish to 2018:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Matt-Patricia-locker-room-speech-Lions-Packers-127077584/https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Damon-Harrison-17-games-played-2018-127076650/

Damon Harrison plays 17 games in 2018:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Damon-Harrison-17-games-played-2018-127076650/

What we learned from Sunday's Week 17 contests (1. Sunday's game was defined by two first-half plays: A fake field goal that produced a touchdown, and a 13-yard Zach Zenner touchdown run that looked far too easy to have occurred in an actual NFL game. The fake field goal is the one that will get more run on social media and TV, thanks in part to the fact it was Matt Prater's first career touchdown pass (complete to tight end Levine Toilolo), and also thanks to former Colts punter Pat McAfee being on the call and losing his mind as the play unfolded. Detroit dominated a game that will quickly be forgotten in what is also a forgotten season in Green Bay. Matt Patricia earned a much-needed blowout win to earn a little positive momentum heading into the offseason after a tumultuous first season at the helm of the Lions. Not bad from a game that had little meaning otherwise.  2. Aaron Rodgers' exit due to a concussion in the second quarter took away the competitive element of this game, but opened the door for intrigue in the form of DeShone Kizer. The second-year quarterback played out the remainder of the contest, and predictably, Green Bay's offense found itself stuck in the mud. Through three quarters, the Lions had run 32 plays in opposing territory. The Packers had run four, and three of the four came in the final 20 seconds of the third.  Kizer's day went like this: A handful of throws that narrowly missed targets (finger-grazing passes, for example), a healthy amount of drops of catchable passes, a couple scares on ill-advised passes that could've easily been turnovers (one eventually was), and more than a few rushes for decent-to-significant gains. A 12-yard scramble on fourth-and-9 extended a drive, woke up the sleepy Lambeau Field crowd and even inspired Kizer to signal that yes, he'd indeed achieved a first down. His final line reflected what we saw with our eyes: 16-of-35 passing, 132 yards, one interception and a 44.0 passer rating. No surprise: Green Bay still doesn't have a reliable option behind Rodgers.  3. Some unheralded Lions who could be key depth players (should Detroit retain them) in 2019 had good games. Zenner rushed for 93 yards and the aforementioned TD. T.J. Jones caught two touchdown passes, including a really well-placed pass from Matt Stafford and equally good catch on the part of Jones. And Toilolo caught a TD pass from a kicker. Fun stuff, friends. -- Nick Shook):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001005550/article/what-we-learned-from-sundays-week-17-games

Week 17 Takeaways: Foles and the Champs Return to the Playoffs, This Year the Ravens Hold on, Vikings Have Soul-Searching to Do (Regrets - LeGarrette Blount Joins the Rare Sub-3.0 Club: Blount is the 10th player, post-merger, to have 100-plus touches in a season and average fewer than 3.00 yards per touch (154 carries for 418 yards, 10 catches for 67 yards, for an average of 2.96 YPT). And he did it in style, with 11 carries for 15 yards in Green Bay on Sunday. But the important part of this note is this: Blount was given 164 touches this season. Just something to keep in mind when assessing GM Bob Quinn’s over-investment in power football and Jim Bob Cooter’s utilization of this team’s offensive talent.  MOMENTS WE WILL TELL OUR GRANDKIDS ABOUT - Matt Prater Does It With His Arm: The veteran kicker with his first career TD pass, with the kind of zip we haven’t seen since Cody Kessler’s last appearance.  WHAT WE’LL BE TALKING ABOUT THIS WEEK - Tanking Served No Purpose This Season: There is no franchise QB prize to be had at the top of the 2019 draft, making it more valuable to win games and build a program. But if you wanted your team to tank, do I ever have a league for you: The National Basketball Association.):   https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/30/week-17-nick-foles-eagles-playoffs-ravens-browns-baker-mayfield-goal-line-fumble-lamar-jackson

Grades:

Grading the Lions' 31-0 win over Packers:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/detroit-lions-matt-patricia/2444840002/

Lions grades: Stafford, Zenner, Jones are top stars:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/lions-grades-stafford-zenner-jones-top-stars/2445009002/

Video:

Patricia on finishing the season strong:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/patricia-on-finishing-the-season-strong

Prater on throwing touchdown pass:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/prater-on-throwing-touchdown-pass

Toilolo on catching pass from Prater:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/toilolo-on-catching-pass-from-prater

Powell on improving after rookie season:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/powell-on-improving-after-rookie-season

Quin on future after this season:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/quin-on-future-after-this-season

Debate: Addressing the Lions' offseason needs:  https://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/31/detroit-lions-wrapping-up-2018-season-and-addressing-offseason-needs/2448045002/

‘We just executed’: Matt Stafford talks to Sarah Kustok after the Lions’ Week 17 blowout win:  https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/video/1414703683984?utm_campaign=team_page&utm_medium=fscom&utm_source=main_content&utm_content=highlights

Detroit CB Darius Slay talks about the Lions’ first shutout of the Packers in Lambeau since 1970:  https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/video/1414703683983?utm_campaign=team_page&utm_medium=fscom&utm_source=main_content&utm_content=highlights

Evening Lions Links for Sunday 12-30-18

Articles:

FOUR DOWNS: Lions shut out Packers in Green Bay:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/four-downs-lions-shut-out-packers-in-green-bay

That Matt Prater TD pass was based on a play Matt Patricia saw in 2004:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/that-matt-prater-td-pass-was-based-on-a-play-matt-patricia-saw-in-2004.html

Detroit Lions owner Martha Ford: We finished season 'in a good way':  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/matt-patricia-detroit-lions-martha-ford/2446337002/

Lions' win takes them down to 8th pick in draft:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/detroit-lions-eighth-pick-nfl-draft/2445932002/

Lions set to draft eighth; recent history of No. 8s favorable:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/lions-set-draft-eighth-recent-history-no-8-s-favorable/2446621002/

Lions pitch shutout for the first time since 1996 with 31-0 win over Packers:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/30/lions-pitch-shutout-for-the-first-time-since-1996-with-31-0-win-over-packers/

T.J. Lang urges Lions fans to stay positive after shutting out Packers:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/30/t-j-lang-message-to-detroit-lions-fans/

Hunt Report: Matt Patricia's Lions defense showing promise:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Matt-Patricia-Lions-defense-showing-promise-127058274/

Lions hand Packers worst head-to-head home loss in 48 years:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-win-Packers-Lambeau-Field-blowout-history-127060263/

Lions currently slotted to pick No. 8 in NFL Draft:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-NFL-Draft-position-2019-127055458/

Grades:

Lions grades: High marks all around for beatdown of the Packers:  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/e385e5b9ea9222/lions-grades-high-marks-all-ar.html

Video:

Stafford on offensive performance against Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/stafford-on-offensive-performance-against-packers

Lions pitch shutout in Green Bay:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/lions-pitch-shutout-in-green-bay

Lions at Packers: Locker Room Celebration:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/lions-at-packers-locker-room-celebration

Afternoon Lions Links for Sunday 12-30-18

Articles:

O’HARA’S BURNING QUESTIONS: What does winning season finale mean for Lions?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-burning-questions-what-does-winning-season-finale-mean-for-lions

RECAP: Lions at Packers: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/recap-lions-at-packers

Quick observations: Lions shut out Packers in season finale:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/quick-observations-lions-shut-out-packers-in-season-finale.html

Watch Matt Prater throw a TD pass for the Lions. Yes, that Matt Prater.:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/watch-matt-prater-throw-a-td-pass-for-the-lions-yes-that-matt-prater.html

Seidel: Was any fan happy with this Lions win?:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2018/12/30/detroit-lions-score-green-bay-packers/2444832002/

Lions can kiss their top-5 draft pick goodbye:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/detroit-lions-green-bay-packers/2445716002/

Lions shut out Packers, 31-0, but fall in draft:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/detroit-lions-green-bay-packers-score/2444835002/

Lions shut out Packers in finale, fall in projected draft order:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/draft-dodgers-detroit-lions-shut-out-green-bay-packers-season-finale/2445764002/

Shorthanded Lions lead Packers 21-0 at halftime:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/30/shorthanded-detroit-lions-lead-green-bay-packers-21-0-halftime/2445007002/

Five main reasons Detroit Lions shut out Green Bay Packers to end the season:  https://lionslowdown.com/2018/12/30/five-main-reasons-detroit-lions-shut-out-green-bay-packers-to-end-the-season/

After worst record since 2012, Lions headed for roster, staff changes:  http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/34962/after-worst-record-since-2012-lions-headed-for-roster-staff-changes

Lions DT Damon Harrison plays in 17th game of season:  http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/25646016/lions-dt-damon-harrison-plays-17th-game-season

Complete list of Lions 2019 free agents:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/30/complete-list-of-lions-2019-free-agents/

Martha Ford: Lions finished 2018 'in a good way':  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Martha-Ford-comments-Lions-2018-season-127053769/

Lions shut out Packers in season finale:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/ContentGallery/Lions-highlights-Packers-shutout-127052668/

T.J. Jones scores second touchdown of the day for Lions:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/TJ-Jones-second-touchdown-Packers-127051209/

Zach Zenner scores touchdown for Lions vs. Packers:   https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Zach-Zenner-touchdown-Packers-127047069/

Matt Prater throws touchdown pass for Lions:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Matt-Prater-touchdown-pass-Lions-127044882/

T.J. Jones scores his first touchdown of 2018:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/TJ-Jones-touchdown-Lions-Packers-127043912/

Lions knock out Aaron Rodgers, blow out Packers:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/30/lions-knock-out-aaron-rodgers-blow-out-packers/

Matt Prater throws a touchdown pass as Lions have some fun in Week 17:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/30/matt-prater-throws-a-touchdown-pass-as-lions-have-some-fun-in-week-17/

Aaron Rodgers heads to locker room for concussion evaluation:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/30/aaron-rodgers-heads-to-locker-room-for-concussion-evaluation/

Refocused, NFL Week 17: Detroit Lions 31, Green Bay Packers 0:  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-refocused-nfl-week-17-detroit-lions-31-green-bay-packers-0

Zach Zenner's career day helps Lions crush Packers in Green Bay:  https://www.argusleader.com/story/sports/college/south-dakota-state-university/2018/12/30/zach-zenners-career-day-helps-lions-crush-packers-green-bay/2446185002/

Lions beat up on Packers 31-0; Rodgers suffers concussion:  https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/lions-beat-up-on-packers-31-0-rodgers-suffers-concussion-123018

Video:

Prater rushes snap on fake FG to throw TD pass to Toilolo:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001005108/Prater-rushes-snap-on-fake-FG-to-throw-TD-pass-to-Toilolo

Stafford displays pinpoint accuracy on TD strike to T.J. Jones:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001005460/Stafford-displays-pinpoint-accuracy-on-TD-strike-to-T-J-Jones

Quandre Diggs hauls in DeShone Kizer's ill-advised pass for INT:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001005470/Quandre-Diggs-hauls-in-DeShone-Kizer-s-ill-advised-pass-for-INT

Zenner turns short pass into 30-yard gain:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001005342/Zenner-turns-short-pass-into-30-yard-gain

Zach Zenner bursts straight through Packers D on 13-yard TD:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001005223/Zach-Zenner-bursts-straight-through-Packers-D-on-13-yard-TD

Powell takes short pass from Stafford into red zone on 41-yard gain:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001005094/Powell-takes-short-pass-from-Stafford-into-red-zone-on-41-yard-gain

Stafford slings a dime to T.J. Jones for 5-yard TD:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001005055/Stafford-slings-a-dime-to-T-J-Jones-for-5-yard-TD

Rodgers gets helmet knocked off on sack from Jarrad Davis:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001004999/Rodgers-gets-helmet-knocked-off-on-sack-from-Jarrad-Davis

Lions vs. Packers highlights | Week 17:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001005549/Lions-vs-Packers-highlights-Week-17

Best of Pat McAfee's calls during Lions vs. Packers | Week 17:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001005587/Best-of-Pat-McAfee-s-calls-during-Lions-vs-Packers-Week-17

Pre-Game Lions Links for Sunday 12-30-18

Articles:

INACTIVES: Lions at Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/inactives-lions-at-packers

5 things to watch: Lions at Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/5-things-to-watch-lions-at-packers

O'HARA'S FINAL THOUGHTS: Lions to close out season in Green Bay again:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-final-thoughts-lions-to-close-out-season-in-green-bay-again

One final Lions prediction to close out a lousy 2018:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/one-final-lions-prediction-to-close-out-a-lousy-2018.html

Detroit's pro teams had a mighty rough 2018:  https://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nhl/red-wings/2018/12/30/look-back-2018-detroit-sports/2443410002/

The most memorable 2018 games for Mich. teams:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/2018/12/30/best-sports-moments-michigan-2018/2437049002/

How Lions can grab the No. 2 NFL draft pick:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/23/detroit-lions-2019-nfl-draft-order/2404305002/

Five things to watch as Detroit Lions wrap up the season at Green Bay:  https://lionslowdown.com/2018/12/30/five-things-to-watch-as-detroit-lions-wrap-up-the-season-at-green-bay/

Report: Lions 'would surprise many' if they kept Jim Bob Cooter:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Jim-Bob-Cooter-job-status-report-Lions-127032661/

Video:

Keys to the Game: Lions at Packers:   https://www.detroitlions.com/video/keys-to-the-game-lions-at-packers

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 12-30-18

Articles:

Lions vs. Packers: A prediction with some things to watch:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/ask-kyle-thoughts-on-punctuality-and-the-future-of-the-lions-qb-position.html

Lions rule CBs Lawson, Agnew out; Shead on IR:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/29/detroit-lions-nevin-lawson-jamal-agnew-out-green-bay-packers/2442138002/

Lions vs. Packers: Scouting report, prediction:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/29/detroit-lions-green-bay-packers-prediction/2434182002/

Windsor: Here's why Patricia's tardiness matters:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/shawn-windsor/2018/12/29/detroit-lions-matt-patricia-late/2437543002/

Lions wrap up bad '18; here come big decisions:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/29/detroit-lions-close-bad-year-offseason-moves/2439554002/

Lions vs. Packers picks: Year to end with thud:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/29/detroit-lions-predictions-green-bay-packers/2435455002/

5 Qs with Lions' Ragnow: Caught a 13-pound fish:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/29/detroit-lions-og-frank-ragnow-eat-less-sugar/2424795002/

Five things to watch: Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/29/five-things-watch-detroit-lions-green-bay-packers/2439511002/

Lions place Shead on injured reserve, promote CB Andre Chachere:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/29/lions-place-shead-on-injured-reserve-promote-cb-andre-chachere/

Rumor: Adam Gase could be Lions offensive coordinator if fired:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Adam-Gase-rumor-Lions-offensive-coordinator-126939289/

Matthew Stafford's throw depth shockingly low in 2018:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Matthew-Stafford-throw-depth-low-Lions-126937652/

Five free agents the Lions can target to turn things around:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-top-free-agency-targets-to-turn-things-around-126967342/

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 12-29-18

Articles:

10 takeaways from Cooter and Pasqualoni:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-takeaways-from-cooter-pasqualoni-x5948

Lions at Packers injury report: Dec. 28:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-at-packers-injury-report-dec-28

Cleat malfunction causes Ragnow to miss first snap this year:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/cleat-malfunction-causes-ragnow-to-miss-first-snap-this-year

NOTEBOOK: Patricia shows support for Stafford:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-patricia-shows-support-for-stafford

If Jim Bob Cooter is feeling the heat, he sure isn’t showing it:   https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/if-jim-bob-cooter-is-feeling-the-heat-he-sure-isnt-showing-it.html

Lions claim defensive end from Saints, place A’Shawn Robinson on IR:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/lions-claim-defensive-end-from-saints-place-ashawn-robinson-on-ir.html

Matt Patricia on questions about his punctuality: ‘You adapt and you move on’:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/matt-patricia-on-questions-about-his-punctuality-you-have-to-be-able-to-adapt.html

Jim Bob Cooter seems to know future with Detroit Lions short:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/28/detroit-lions-jim-bob-cooter-future/2435814002/

‘It should be fun’: Lions’ Slay eager for rematch with Packers’ Adams:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/28/should-fun-lions-slay-eager-rematch-packers-adams/2435950002/

10 numbers that have defined the Lions' season:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/28/10-numbers-have-defined-detroit-lions-season/2435817002/

Lions Matt Patricia says Matthew Stafford is his QB, quells trade speculation:  https://lionslowdown.com/2018/12/28/lions-matt-patricia-says-matthew-stafford-is-his-qb-quells-trade-speculation/

Read: Matt Patricia's three-minute answer on punctuality:  http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/35001/read-matt-patricias-three-minute-answer-on-punctuality

Trying to explain Matthew Stafford's middling season:  http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/34990/trying-to-explain-matthew-staffords-middling-season

Damon Harrison: New team, same old snacks:  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-damon-harrison-new-team-same-old-snacks

Don't Trade Matthew Stafford, Detroit, Fire Matt Patricia Instead:  https://thebiglead.com/2018/12/28/matthew-stafford-trade-matt-patricia-lions/

NFL Week 17: Preview and Analysis for Every Game (LIONS (5-10) AT PACKERS (6-8-1):  This is likely the last game for Lions offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter. You get the sense that Cooter, who took over Detroit’s offense in 2015 and was the one to finally tame uber-talented wild stallion Matthew Stafford, never felt quite comfortable under Matt Patricia, whom many believe wants to hire his own guy. This year we saw flashes of creativity from Detroit but never a sustaining glow. A team looking to develop its young QB should consider Cooter. In a stable situation, they’ll get the JBC of 2015-17, not the JBC of 2018.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/28/nfl-week-17-preview-analysis-news

4 Lions players who could be playing their final game in Detroit on Sunday:  https://www.clickondetroit.com/sports/4-lions-players-who-could-be-playing-their-final-game-in-detroit-on-sunday

Lions, Packers look to close playoff-less seasons:  http://www.fox2detroit.com/sports/lions-packers-look-to-close-playoff-less-seasons

Preview: Philbin gets one more shot as Packers host Lions in season finale:  https://www.foxsports.com/wisconsin/story/preview-green-bay-packers-joe-philbin-aaron-rodgers-detroit-lions-122818

Davante Adams, David Bakhtiari questionable:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/28/davante-adams-david-bakhtiari-questionable/

2019 Draft:

Meet the 2019 NFL draft quarterback class: Everything you need to know (12-27-18):  http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2019/story/_/id/25548365/meet-2019-nfl-draft-quarterback-class-everything-need-know

Draft: Best prospects in Redbox Bowl:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/redbox-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-oregon-vs-michigan-state-bowl-game/

Orange Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Alabama vs. Oklahoma bowl game:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/orange-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-alabama-vs-oklahoma-bowl-game/

Cotton Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Clemson vs. Notre Dame bowl game:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/cotton-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-clemson-vs-notre-dame-bowl-game/

NFL Draft: Best prospects in Peach Bowl:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/peach-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-michigan-vs-florida-bowl-game/

DK Metcalf is a Love or Hate Prospect (12-27-18):   http://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/DK-Metcalf-is-a-Love-or-Hate-Prospect

Video:

Patricia on belief in Stafford:   https://www.detroitlions.com/video/patricia-on-belief-in-stafford

Coach's scouting report: Week 17:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/coach-s-scouting-report-week-17

Mock Draft RoundUp #4

CBS 2019 NFL Mock Draft (5.  Detroit Lions - DE Clelin Ferrell:  Ferrell has the size, length, and athleticism to be an All-Pro player at the next level. He just has to get more reliant on his pass-rushing moves. Detroit desperately needs help on the outside of its defensive line.) (12-28-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-mock-draft-jaguars-make-drew-lock-first-qb-selected-giants-luck-out-with-monster-pass-rush-talent/

2019 NFL Mock Draft - Charlie Campbell (5.  DT Derrick Brown:  The Lions grab a versatile lineman who play a lot of techniques and can cause disruption with rare size and speed. Brown is up to 45 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 9.5 tackles for a loss and one forced fumble in 2018. Teams have sent consistent double teams at him, but he has still managed to stuff runs and cause disruption. Brown also has the quickness to fire into the backfield and pressure the quarterback from the interior. The 6-foot-5, 316-pounder has a ton of upside and is just scratching the surface of what he is capable of doing. Brown (6-5, 316) had an impressive 2017 season, playing well down the stretch when Auburn made a run into the SEC Championship. He totaled 56 tackles with 3.5 sacks, nine tackles for a loss, one pass broken up and two forced fumbles on the year.  41.  OLB D'Andre Walker:  The Lions could use help at linebacker and at edge rusher. Here's a versatile defender for Detroit. Smith is a quality run defender who has worked hard to improve his pass-coverage skills. He is limited for coverage in the NFL, but he could be a solid rotational linebacker. Walker possesses a thick build to go with his speed.  Walker has 45 tackles with 11 tackles for a loss, 7.5 sacks, four forced fumbles and three passes batted this season. He has been a nice replacement for Lorenzo Carter. According to NFL teams' preseason data provided by team sources, Walker checks in 6-foot-2, 251 pounds with 33.13-inch arms, 9.63-inch hands, and a wingspan of 80.25 inches. They have him running the 40-yard dash in 4.60 seconds. Georgia fielded a superb defense in 2017, and Walker was one of the impressive defenders in the middle of the field who helped make the Bulldogs so tough. He had 5.5 sacks, 13.5 tackles for a loss, 40 tackles and a forced fumble on the year.  81. TE Caleb Wilson:  The Lions moved on from Eric Ebron, and he is breaking out with the Colts while Detroit has missed a receiving threat at tight end. Here's a mismatch weapon.  Wilson totaled 60 catches for 965 yards and four touchdowns in 2018. The 6-foot-4, 235-pounder was phenomenal in 2017 as the most reliable receiving threat for Josh Rosen. Prior to a season-ending foot injury, Wilson had 38 receptions for 490 yards and one touchdown. He was instrumental in the legendary comeback over Texas A&M, hauling in 15 passes for 208 yards in that game. As a freshman in 2016, he had 16 catches for 220 yards. Wilson is a quick tight end who runs good routes and is dangerous as a run-after-the-catch threat.) (12-28-18):   http://walterfootball.com/draft2019charlie.php

Walter Football 2019 NFL Mock Draft (5. Detroit Lions - LB Devin White: The Lions have one of the worst linebacking corps in the NFL. They can't cover anyone over the middle of the field. They need to add a player who can become the leader of their defensive unit at the position. If they do so, perhaps they'll finally be able to compete with some of the top teams in their division.  Devin White was extremely productive this past season, logging 133 tackles. A projected running back, White is still learning the position, which is crazy considering how great he was in 2017. White is already generating a buzz for the 2019 NFL Draft, as Charlie Campbell reported in the NFL Hot Press. 41.  DE Brian Burns:  The Lions don't really have much of an edge threat outside of Ziggy Ansah, who barely plays. They'll need to upgrade this area during the 2019 offseason.  Brian Burns needs to bulk up quite a bit, as he played at 220 pounds as a freshman, but he has a long frame, so he has the potential to fill out. He had 9.5 sacks as a freshman.  81. LB Devin Bush:  The Lions have one of the worst linebacking corps in the NFL. They can't cover anyone over the middle of the field. They need to add a player who can become the leader of their defensive unit at the position. If they do so, perhaps they'll finally be able to compete with some of the top teams in their division.) (12-27-18):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019.php

DraftTek Mock Draft (5.  DT Quinnen Williams:  With Christmas having ended and the New Year upon us, what better way to talk about the Lions, their season, the future, and the state of the franchise itself than through a Christmas carol! "Enter The Life of a Lion's Fan". Winds of change, are you listening? It's a shame, nothing's working. It's a terrible sight, we're crying tonight. Enter the life of a Lion's fan. Gone away are the playoffs, as we hope for some layoffs. It's Quinn's job to lose, it can't be excused, enter the life of a Lion's fan. Maybe in the Spring we'll get a superstar, then hope that one day he can perform, we'll say trade Mr. Stafford, they'll say no fans, even though he hasn't done the job while he's been in town. Hopefully, then we can acquire, players with some desire. We don't ask for a lot, it's time to boycott....enter the life of a Lion's fan.  You won't find this song on songmeanings.com, so allow me to analyze. For the past several weeks I've berated Stafford and the Lions' top brass, namely Bob Quinn for not having addressed the media or the fans publically since the NFL Draft about the team's on-field performance. Even the trades to acquire Damon Harrison from the Giants and the decision to move Golden Tate failed to garner comments from the GM. The season as a whole has been an enigma, to say the least. Expectations for Patricia were high after the team finished 9-7 under Jim Caldwell. With minimal roster turnover, expectations were rightfully high considering Patricia had average talent in his Patriot defenses and maximized its output. He was expected to do the same with this Lions defensive unit and it just hasn't materialized. Stafford vouched for Jim Bob Cooter to remain the team's OC at the time of Patricia's hiring and now finds himself about to finish perhaps one of the worst statistical seasons of his 10-year career. It's a safe assumption just from watching the team that they need help everywhere. They have problems aplenty. From keeping their multi-million dollar QB upright, to an aging secondary, and a linebacking corps that is average at best, the Lions don't seem to have enough picks in the 2019 Draft to address all their needs. They'll need to hit Free Agency hard this upcoming season in order to patch up the roster holes. Quinn's decisions at this point can be analyzed as suspect and very hit-and-miss, including the Head Coach choice. If this duo of Quinn and Patricia, perhaps even trio including Stafford (who Quinn elected to extend), cannot deliver a playoff appearance or playoff win, Lions fans would be right in asking for those layoffs. This is exactly what it sounds like, the life of a Lion's fan, always hoping and always looking towards the future. - Doug Hyde, Lions Analyst.  37. S Jaquan Johnson.  81. LB TJ Edwards.  100. DT Raequan Williams.  129. TE Kaden Smith) (12-27-18):   https://www.drafttek.com/2019-NFL-Mock-Draft-Round1.asp

Draftwire Mock Draft (5. Detroit Lions - CB Greedy Williams) (12-26-18):   https://draftwire.usatoday.com/gallery/2019-nfl-mock-draft-updated-week-17-dwayne-haskins-nick-bosa-quinnen-williams-josh-allen-justin-herbert-will-grier/

CBS Ryan Wilson (5. DT Quinnen Williams:  The Lions are a worse team now under Matt Patricia than they were under Jim Caldwell, who was run out of town for not getting the most out of his team. But perhaps that narrative changes with the addition of Williams, who has been one of the best players in college football in 2018 after sitting behind Da'Ron Payne (a Redskins first-rounder last spring) in 2017. Like many of the teams in front of them, the Lions need pass-rushing help, but Williams could be a truly special player in the middle of this defense.) (12-24-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2019-nfl-mock-draft-jaguars-patriots-find-next-franchise-quarterback-bills-get-josh-allen-a-deep-threat/

SI Mock Draft (7.  DE Clelin Ferrell:  Free-agent-to-be Ziggy Ansah might be done in Detroit, so the Lions will look to bolster the pass rush with Ferrell. Scouts say he’s a talented and productive pass rusher but not a truly special athlete, which could make this his ceiling.) (12-19-18):    https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/19/nfl-mock-draft-2019-justin-herbert-nick-bosa-dwayne-haskins-daniel-jones

SN Mock Draft (8. CB Greedy Williams:  Williams is a long, lean cornerback (6-3, 184 pounds) who has rare speed, quickness and agility for his size. He’s not the most physical player, but he’s fundamentally sound in coverage, and he uses his length well at the line to break up routes. The NFC North is loaded with big, talented receivers, so the Lions desperately need such a corner to pair with Darius Slay.) (12-16-18):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/amp/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2019-redskins-giants-qbs-raiders-bama-defense/1x5vfu4g7y5531gct8wyqy53xh

Draftwire Gavino Borquez (10. OLB Josh Allen:  Detroit should look to get better on the defensive side of the ball, and Allen would be a nice selection at No. 10. With Ezekiel Ansah’s contract coming up, they may want to replace him with for the long-term. Allen has a nose for the football and he’s an aggressive pass rusher, while also remaining steady when dropping back. He doesn’t have elite bend as a pass rusher, but he can turn the corner and make plays.  42. CB Amani Oruwariye;  80. TE Kaden Smith; 106. 1 LB Kendall Joseph) (12-15-18):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/12/15/2019-nfl-mock-draft-early-4-round-projections/

NFL RealGM (10. DeAndre Baker, CB, Georgia: Baker is a physical presence with excellent instincts and proven ability to be effective in both man and zone schemes. For a defense like Detroit’s under Matt Patricia, being versatile and smart are invaluable. I just wish he was a little faster.) (12-14-18):   https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3114/2019-NFL-Mock-Draft-Version-10

The Big Lead Mock Draft (9. DT Quinnen Williams:  Williams might be the Lions pick at No. 1. He’s the type of defensive lineman that Matt Patricia (and Bill Belichick) will covet. Fundamentally sound and athletically gifted, Williams is a beast, and will help Patricia look better in his second year.) (12-13-18):   https://thebiglead.com/2018/12/13/2019-nfl-mock-draft-justin-herbert-drew-lock-giants-packers-find-qb-successors/2/

Draft Analyst Mock Draft (5. CB Greedy Williams:  The Lions need another cornerback, and Williams offers big-time potential.) (12-7-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/mock-draft-top-half-round-1

Draft Scout Serritella Mock Draft (7. Detroit Lions -- Deandre Baker CB, Georgia*: The Lions' secondary is in need of stability on the edge and Baker is a bona-fide shutdown corner.) (12-7-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/mocks/serritella-2019-nfl-mock-draft-v1-0-9cbebOO0ZEuDW7-vEkCPEw/

PFF Mock Draft (5. DETROIT LIONS – DEIONTE THOMPSON, S, ALABAMA:  The Lions simply need an influx of talent in the secondary and Thompson has plenty of that. He makes plays from the middle of the field that college safeties aren’t supposed to make. He’s allowed a passer rating of 54.0 on his 30 targets this season.) (12-3-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-bosa-goes-first-renners-first-2019-mock

Round 1 (5 CB, 2 DE, 4 DT, 2 LB, 1 S):

3 CB Greedy Williams
3 DT Quinnen Williams
2 DE Clelin Ferrell
2 CB Deandre Baker
1 DT Derrick Brown
1 LB Devin White
1 S Deionte Thompson
1 OLB Josh Allen

Round 2 (1 CB, 1 OLB, 1 DT, 1 S):

1 DE Brian Burns
1 OLB D'Andre Walker
1 DT Isaiah Buggs
1 CB Amani Oruwariye
1 S Jaquan Johnson

Round 3 (2 TE, 1 LB):

1 LB TJ Edwards
1 TE Caleb Wilson
1 LB Devin Bush
1 TE Kaden Smith

Round 4 (1 LB, 1 DT):

1 LB Kendall Joseph
1 DT Raequan Williams

Round 5 (1 TE):

1 TE Kaden Smith

Morning Lions Links for Friday 12-28-18

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: Disappointing season a motivating factor for Davis:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-disappointing-season-a-motivating-factor-for-davis

Lions at Packers practice report: Dec. 27:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-at-packers-practice-report-dec-27

O’HARA: Stafford, Rodgers sending the right message:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-stafford-rodgers-sending-the-right-message

Glover Quin deserved better than this:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/glover-quin-deserved-better-than-this.html

How Jim Caldwell’s image got stronger with a year away from the game:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/how-jim-caldwells-image-got-stronger-with-a-year-away-from-the-game.html

Detroit Lions-Packers matchup to watch: CB Slay vs. WR Adams:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/28/detroit-lions-packers-matchup-watch-cb-slay-vs-wr-adams/2420315002/

Stafford mum on future of Cooter with Lions:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/27/detroit-lions-matthew-stafford-finish-detroit/2426273002/

Lions LB Jarrad Davis: We're building long term:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/27/detroit-lions-lb-jarrad-davis-we-can-play-versus-anybody/2426938002/

Lions mailbag: Could they draft a QB at No. 5?:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/27/detroit-lions-mailbag-2019-nfl-draft/2419792002/

Lions mailbag: Patricia's tardiness seems to go against NFL grain:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/27/lions-mailbag-matt-patricias-tardiness-seems-go-against-nfl-grain/2419923002/

Packers' Philbin: Lions' coverage looks are 'cutting edge':  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/27/packers-philbin-lions-coverage-looks-cutting-edge/2417487002/

View from the other side: Lions at Packers:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/27/view-other-side-detroit-lions-green-bay-packers/2425532002/

Three Lions starters return to practice:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/27/three-detroit-lions-starters-damon-harrison-kenny-golladay-quandre-diggs-return-practice/2422787002/

Why Week 17 should matter to Lions fans:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/27/why-week-17-should-matter-to-lions-fans/

Lions unlikely to move up in draft order even with a Week 17 loss:   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/27/lions-unlikely-to-move-up-in-draft-order-even-with-a-week-17-loss/

Don't believe the big Lions trade rumors:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/10/12/dont-believe-the-big-lions-trade-rumors/

Lions need better depth at wide receiver:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-wide-receiver-depth-additions-needed-126903718/

Most important Lions to watch vs. Packers:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/ContentGallery/Most-important-Lions-to-watch-vs-Packers-126897755/

Five New Year's Resolutions for the Lions:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-New-Years-Resolutions-for-2019-126894160/

Writer explains why Lions may not draft quarterback early:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-2019-draft-quarterback-need-126910350/

Jim Bob Cooter will 'garner interest' from NFL teams:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Jim-Bob-Cooter-Lions-NFL-interest-if-fired-126899763/

Darius Slay, Nevin Lawson closing in on $550K in incentives:   http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/34977/darius-slay-nevin-lawson-each-closing-in-on-extra-550000-in-incentives

Stats to know for all 32 NFL teams entering Week 17 (Detroit Lions: On blitzes, Jarrad Davis has a pressure percentage of 30.6%, which is the best rate for all defenders.):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-stats-to-know-for-all-32-nfl-teams-entering-week-17

2019 Draft:

The Draft Prospects the NFL Is Watching This Bowl Season:  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/27/2019-nfl-draft-bowl-season

2019 Draft order: Sorting out the QBs:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-order-race-for-no-1-pick-who-should-qb-needy-teams-target-now-that-justin-herberts-staying-at-oregon/

Video - Quinnen Williams is deservedly one of the top 2019 NFL Draft prospects:   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-quinnen-williams-top-draft-prospect

Video:

Stafford on focusing on Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/stafford-on-focusing-on-packers

Davis on building a winning culture in Detroit:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/davis-on-building-a-winning-culture-in-detroit

X's and O's with Dan Orlovsky: Week 17:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/x-s-and-o-s-with-dan-orlovsky-week-17

Is Patricia's tardiness a bad display of leadership?:   http://www.espn.com/video/clip?id=25625114

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 12-27-18

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: Quin to decide future after season ends:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-quin-to-decide-future-after-season-ends

Lions at Packers practice report: Dec. 26:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-at-packers-practice-report-dec-26

Week 17 opponent: What the Packers are saying:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/week-17-opponent-what-the-packers-are-saying

STATS PACK: The numbers behind the Lions' short passing game:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/stats-pack-the-numbers-behind-the-lions-short-passing-game

Ex-Lion: Patricia often late to team meetings:   https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/26/detroit-lions-matt-patricia/2416044002/

Is Lions coach Matt Patricia safe for 2019?:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/26/detroit-lions-matt-patricia-pretty-confident-2019-return/2414907002/

Some NFL executives see the Lions trading Matthew Stafford:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/some-nfl-executives-see-the-lions-trading-matthew-stafford.html

Matt Patricia is ‘pretty confident’ he’ll be back in Detroit in 2019:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/matt-patricia-is-pretty-confident-hell-be-back-in-detroit-in-2019.html

Including IR, the Lions begin final practice week without 9 starters:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/including-ir-the-lions-begin-final-practice-week-without-9-starters.html

5 things to watch: Matthew Stafford limping to finish line:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/5-things-to-watch-matthew-stafford-limping-to-finish-line.html

Lions safety Glover Quin unsure if he'll continue to play in 2019:   http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/34982/lions-safety-glover-quin-unsure-if-hell-continue-to-play-in-2019

Lions have impressive balanced split of run vs. pass on 1st down:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/26/lions-split-of-run-vs-pass-on-1st-down/

Lions bring back WR Brian Brown to practice squad:   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/26/lions-bring-back-wr-brian-brown-to-practice-squad/

George Godsey named as potential replacement for Jim Bob Cooter:   https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Jim-Bob-Cooter-replacement-George-Godsey-Lions-126866800/

2018 NFL rookie rankings through Week 16 (8. Da'Shawn Hand:  Hand ranks 12th among 118 interior defenders who’ve registered at least 225 defensive snaps through the first 16 weeks of the season. The big man out of ‘Bama has been a steady presence in the middle of Detroit’s defensive line, earning an overall grade of at least 70.0 in nine of 13 games to start his career. Hand is one of just 10 interior defensive linemen who’ve tallied at least 15 stops while not missing a tackle in run defense, and he’s also produced pressure on 10.3% of his pass-rushing snaps, which ranks 19th among the 77 interior defenders with at least 200 pass-rushing snaps.):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-2018-nfl-rookie-rankings-through-week-16

New team, next season? (6. Ziggy Ansah, DE, Detroit Lions
For a long time, Ansah was the face of the Lions' defense. And I long argued that he was a truly underappreciated star. After contract squabbles, a franchise tag that paid him north of $17 million, and the season-ending shoulder injury he suffered earlier this month, a fresh start elsewhere would be best for everyone involved. He's a great talent and leader. The injuries have started to pile up, though. Ansah hasn't played a full 16-game season since 2015, and if he's going to recapture the magic, it's time to do it outside of Motown.):   

Davante Adams misses practice but plans on playing as he goes for team marks:   https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/26/davante-adams-misses-practice-but-plans-on-playing-as-he-goes-for-team-marks/

Packers interview Jim Caldwell:   https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/26/packers-interview-jim-caldwell/

Report of Matt Patricia being 'consistently late' to meetings caps tough season for first-year Lions coach:   https://sports.yahoo.com/report-matt-patricia-consistently-late-meetings-caps-difficult-season-first-year-lions-coach-021749775.html

Video:

Patricia on Green Bay preparation:   https://www.detroitlions.com/video/patricia-on-green-bay-preparation

Quin on his future:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/quin-on-his-future

Lions vs. Packers Week 17 preview | NFL Playbook:   http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001004577/Lions-vs-Packers-Week-17-preview-NFL-Playbook

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 12-26-18

Articles:

Inside the Lions: Walker ready to replace Quin:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/25/detroit-lions-glover-quin-tracy-walker/2411310002/

Netflix nails Lions fandom: 'It is what it is':  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/shawn-windsor/2018/12/26/detroit-lions-fandom-netflix-ozark-buddy-dyker/2412108002/

Packers place Pro Bowl DT Kenny Clark on IR prior to matchup with Lions:   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/25/packers-place-pro-bowl-dt-kenny-clark-on-ir-prior-to-matchup-with-lions/

Breaking down the Lions Week 16: By the Numbers:   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/25/breaking-down-the-lions-week-16-by-the-numbers/

Kenny Golladay named Lions unheralded building block:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Kenny-Golladay-Lions-building-block-126851670/

Articles from Opposing Teams Media:

Green Bay Packers' next opponent: Detroit Lions looking for season sweep:   https://ux.greenbaypressgazette.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2018/12/25/packers-next-opponent-detroit-lions-looking-season-sweep/2407257002/

2019 Draft:

How Alabama DT Quinnen Williams turned grief into greatness:  http://www.nfl.com/labs/cfb247/quinnen-williams/quinnen-williams

Video:

Sights and Sounds: Week 16 vs Minnesota:   https://www.detroitlions.com/video/sights-and-sounds-week-16-vs-minnesota

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 12-25-18

Merry Christmas!!!

Articles:

KEY QUESTIONS: Will Lions give young guys more playing time in season finale?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/key-questions-will-lions-give-young-guys-more-playing-time-in-season-finale

TIM AND MIKE: Week 16 observations:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/tim-and-mike-week-16-observations

O'HARA'S MONDAY COUNTDOWN: Lions last home game felt similar to their first:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-monday-countdown-lions-last-home-game-felt-similar-to-their-first

Now 5-10, the Lions will finish season in Green Bay:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/now-5-10-the-lions-will-finish-season-in-green-bay.html

3 things we learned: Feed Zach Zenner the rock:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/3-things-we-learned-feed-zach-zenner-the-rock.html

Detroit Lions move up to fifth in NFL draft order, could climb as high as second:   https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/detroit-lions-move-up-to-fifth-in-nfl-draft-order-could-climb-as-high-as-second.html

Buckle up. The Lions are headed for even more turnover.:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/buckle-up-the-lions-are-headed-for-even-more-turnover.html

Lions' Stafford likely to start vs. Packers:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/24/detroit-lions-matthew-stafford-likely-start-vs-packers/2408906002/

Lions needy for Greedy if they land top-5 pick:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/24/detroit-lions-draft-watch-greedy-williams/2406019002/

Four Downs: Draft position, booing Stafford and Ford Field farewells:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/24/four-downs-draft-position-booing-stafford-and-ford-field-farewells/2405688002/

Footwear failure can't keep Lions' Ragnow out long:   https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/24/lions-frank-ragnow-escapes-shoe-malfunction-unharmed/2406127002/

Lions Week 16 snap counts: Injuries create opportunities for younger players:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/24/lions-week-16-snap-counts-injuries-create-opportunities-for-younger-players/

Hail Mary defense continues to elude the Lions:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/12/24/hail-mary-defense-continues-to-elude-the-lions/

Lions vs. Packers key matchups to watch:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-vs-Packers-key-matchups-to-watch-126840678/

Lions open as huge road underdogs to Packers:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-Packers-line-odds-Week-17-126833018/

Writer: Matt Patricia didn't turn around Lions:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/John-Feinstein-Matt-Patricia-didnt-turn-around-Lions-126832157/

Grading the Lions for Week 16 loss to Vikings:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/ContentGallery/Lions-grades-Week-16-loss-Vikings-126829435/

Week 16 NFL Team of the Week (SAFETY
 Glover Quin, Detroit Lions – 82.2 overall grade: Quin allowed a touchdown in the loss to the Vikings, but it was the only reception he allowed from 19 snaps in coverage. He was solid against the run too, and overall finished the game with two tackles and an assist from 39 snaps on the field.):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-week-16-nfl-team-of-the-week

$.10 After NFL Week 16 (I try not to talk too much about my Lions in this space, but there is zero excuse for that franchise continuing to employ offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter. If he returns, Lions fans should riot. In Sunday’s loss to Minnesota, the Vikings players were calling out the offensive plays for Detroit. That’s at least the 4th opponent this season to admit they knew exactly what the play call was based on down/distance, personnel package and alignment. That’s four too many...):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3119/$10-After-NFL-Week-16

Patricia building rapport with Lions, but not success yet:  https://sports.yahoo.com/patricia-building-rapport-lions-not-success-yet-220648865--nfl.html

Video:

Conference call: Patricia on preparing for Week 17:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/conference-call-patricia-on-preparing-for-week-17

3 and Out with Chris Spielman: Week 16:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/3-out-with-chris-spielman-week-16

Tori's Take: Week 16:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/tori-s-take-week-16

Morning Lions Links for Monday 12-24-18

Morning Part 2:

Articles:

Seidel: Lions' Patricia has failed to deliver:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2018/12/24/detroit-lions-matt-patricia-has-failed/2401756002/

Lions' stock watch: Give Zenner more carries:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/24/detroit-lions-stock-watch-minnesota-vikings/2404669002/

Lions grades: Hard to find the positives in rough loss to Vikings:  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/88a2605dcd9574/lions-grades-hard-to-find-the.html

Matt Prater opens up about struggles with alcohol:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2017/10/26/matt-prater-opens-up-about-struggles-with-alcohol/

Lions 2019 schedule mostly set:   https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-2019-schedule-mostly-set-126822702/

2019 Draft:

La Tech's Jaylon Ferguson sets FBS career sack record in Hawaii Bowl victory:   https://collegefootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/23/la-techs-jaylon-ferguson-sets-fbs-career-sack-record-in-hawaii-bowl-victory/

---------------

Morning Part 1:

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: Lions frustrated by latest loss:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-lions-frustrated-by-latest-loss

Lions QB Matthew Stafford gets benched for first time since 2015:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/lions-qb-matthew-stafford-gets-the-hook-for-first-time-since-2015.html

Matt Patricia and Jarrad Davis share a moment after frustrating loss:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/matt-patricia-and-jarrad-davis-share-a-moment-after-frustrating-loss.html

Lions sunk by terrible Hail Mary defense. Again.:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2018/12/lions-sunk-by-terrible-hail-mary-defense-again.html

Lions' Davis: 'Don't know' why the 'D' struggled:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/23/detroit-lions-lb-jarrad-davis-defense-woes/2404477002/

Players support Patricia? 'Terrible question':  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/23/detroit-lions-players-still-support-matt-patricia/2404485002/

'You can't give a Hail Mary up'; Lions find way:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/23/detroit-lions-hail-mary-minnesota-vikings/2404441002/

Lions DE: To change culture, change the people:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/23/detroit-lions-ricky-jean-francois-fed-up-sounds-off/2404281002/

How Lions still have chance at No. 2 draft pick:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/23/detroit-lions-2019-nfl-draft-order/2404305002/

Niyo: Lack of progress leaves Lions begging for change:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/john-niyo/2018/12/23/niyo-lack-progress-leaves-detroit-lions-begging-more-change/2401552002/

Officials don't buy Lions' tricky attempt to draw offside call:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/23/officials-dont-buy-detroit-lions-tricky-attempt-draw-offside-call/2404309002/

Three up, three down for Lions after Vikings loss:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-stock-report-vs-Vikings-126819312/

Matt Patricia criticized for playing out Lions loss:  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Matt-Patricia-criticized-Lions-loss-126814991/

Another Lions loss leads to more questions -- and maybe a top-five pick:  http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/34968/another-lions-loss-leads-to-more-questions-and-maybe-a-top-5-pick

What we learned from Sunday's Week 16 contests (1. A sleepy offensive start put the Vikings in an early 9-0 hole before Kirk Cousins & Co. woke up. Minnesota compiled five total yards on its first four drives and didn't earn a first down until 3:48 left in the second quarter. Credit the Vikings D for holding Detroit to three field goals to give the offense a chance to find its groove. Find it they did. Minnesota closed out the first half with back-to-back touchdowns in the final 1:32 to take control. Cousins took advantage of a blown coverage on Adam Thielen for a 40-yard gain to set up a Stefon Diggs score. Kyle Rudolph then skied for a half-ending 44-yard Hail Mary touchdown that stole any momentum Detroit might have gained early. In the second half, Dalvin Cook finally heated up, bludgeoning Detroit's D as the Vikings squeezed the life out of a cratering Lions team, scoring 27 straight points to close the game.  2. It wasn't a crisp game for the 8-6-1 Vikings, but Mike Zimmer's squad took another step toward the postseason with a road division win. Zimmer's defense held the Lions out of the end zone for the second time on the year, completely smothering Matthew Stafford in the final two quarters. Heading into Week 17, Minnesota hangs onto playoff positioning. With the Philadelphia Eagles' come-from-behind victory over Houston, however, the Vikings did not clinch a postseason berth with Sunday's win. Minnesota will host the NFC North-leading Chicago Bears in the season finale with a playoff spot on the line. 3. Matt Patricia's team wasted golden opportunities to take a big lead early. Beginning the game with great field position, the Lions offense settled for three field goals. Winning teams score touchdowns; losing squads kick field goals. The Lions are a field-goal team. The margin for error for Matthew Stafford and the Detroit offense is so small they cannot consistently beat good defenses. Stafford compiled a minuscule 116 passing yards before a mercy yanking for the final two drives. On Stafford's last five possessions, the Lions punted four times and turned it over on downs. Detroit earned 37 yards on those five drives. Thanks to a defensive collapse at the end of the first half, Detroit trailed 14-9 at the break despite owning a 19:45 to 10:15 time of possession advantage. The end-of-half meltdown destroyed any positive vibes Detroit might have generated. Patricia's team put up zero fight in the final 32 minutes of the game. The coach ends his first season at the helm traveling to Green Bay in Week 17. Detroit will end the season in the cellar of the NFC North. -- Kevin Patra):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001003294/article/what-we-learned-from-sundays-week-16-games

NFL Insider Notes: Get ready for a whole lot of coaching changes, and more from Week 16 (More should be made of just how far the Lions have regressed in 2018 from where they were a year ago. Rookie head coach Matt Patricia doesn't appear to be in imminent danger of being let go, though one could make the case for it, but that is one franchise that had better make significant strides in 2019):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-insider-notes-a-whole-lot-of-coaching-changes-will-be-coming-soon-and-more-from-week-16/

Week 16 Takeaways: Atrocious Pass Interference Calls, Saints Clinch the No. 1 Seed, Nick Foles Saves Christmas (Regrets - Matthew Stafford’s Supporting Cast: Imagine how good the Lions would be if the offensive line GM Bob Quinn invested two first-round picks and two enormous free-agent contracts in wasn’t mediocre-at-best this season. Or if Quinn had kept and Jim Bob Cooter had properly used Eric Ebron rather than opting for three blocking specialists on the tight end depth chart. Or if Quinn hadn’t traded Golden Tate, Stafford’s favorite target, when the team was still in the playoff hunt. Or if Cooter didn’t insist on playing the painfully one-dimensional LeGarrette Blount for 20-plus snaps every week. With an all-world quarterback like Stafford, the Lions might have really had something.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/23/week-16-nick-foles-comeback-eagles-texans-andrew-luck-colts-giants-browns-sweep-bengals

NFL Winners and Losers: Nick Foles has had the strangest career in NFL history (Losers - The Lions’ defensive effort on the Vikings’ Hail Mary: The Lions played the Vikings’ Hail Mary at the end of the first half so poorly, it looked like Kirk Cousins and Kyle Rudolph were playing pitch and catch.  That’s really nothing too surprising for the Lions this season. They looked OK for a little bit and then rolled over in a 27-9 loss to the Vikings. The offense looked pathetic again, as Matthew Stafford sinks deeper into his career-worst season. The defense, supposedly Matt Patricia’s specialty, gave up 360 yards including 122 by Rudolph, who has been quiet all season.  Many sunny theories will be pitched about Patricia, about how he had to get his system in place and the players to fit it. But, yet again on Sunday, nothing happened on the field to show he’s leading Detroit in the right direction.):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-winners-losers-nick-foles-strangest-career-nfl-history-011900636.html

Vikings practice Hail Mary every Saturday, but without the throw:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/23/vikings-practice-hail-mary-every-saturday-but-without-the-throw/

Vikings closing in on wild card berth after win over Lions:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/23/vikings-closing-in-on-wild-card-berth-after-win-over-lions/

Rudolph guides Vikings to halftime lead with Hail Mary catch:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/23/rudolph-guides-vikings-to-halftime-lead-with-hail-mary-catch/

Vikings finally on the board, but still trail in Detroit:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/23/vikings-finally-on-the-board-but-still-trail-in-detroit/

Grades:

Lions grades: Plenty of Fs to go around in loss:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/23/detroit-lions-grades-plenty-fs-loss-minnesota-vikings/2401745002/

Grades: Eagles earn an 'A', Fins 'F' ((Lions: D-):  Despite having a veteran quarterback, the Lions offense seems to get worse every week. Before getting pulled in the fourth quarter, Matthew Stafford completed just 18 fo 32 passes for 116 yards. Although the Lions did jump out to an early 9-0 lead in the this game, the entire team seemed to melt down after the Vikings closed the first half with two touchdowns over the final 92 seconds. The Lions offense was so bad in the second half that they didn't even reach Vikings territory until there was under one minute left to play.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-16-grades-eagles-get-an-a-for-keeping-playoff-hopes-alive-dolphins-get-an-f/

Video:

Vikings vs. Lions highlights | Week 16:  http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001003428/Vikings-vs-Lions-highlights-Week-16

What, if anything, will work for Lions' offense?:  https://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/24/detroit-lions-offense-shambles-our-writers-question-everything/2404678002/

Rogers, Niyo break down Lions' loss to Vikings:  https://www.detroitnews.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2018/12/24/rogers-niyo-break-down-lions-loss-vikings/2404339002/