Hey! Ho! The wicked witch is dead. The Detroit Lions win 19-14.
How does that saying go about the sun shining on a dog?
The Lions are now 1-2, not 0-20!
This is probably the first game in the last two years that the Lions have played where they looked like a complete team. Offence, Defense and Special teams all played like a cohesive professional football team. It’s a real treat to watch a good football game for a change.
I only have one criticism and that would be Matthew Stafford’s accuracy.
He really threw some zingers today making it hard for his receivers. This may be due to an over correction as he tries to minimize the interceptions he has been throwing. It looks like he was trying too hard, but this is something that CAN be fixed. Other than that I would say the Lions really looked pretty good today.
Ford Field had many empty seats today but the fans that were actually there witnessed a 19 game losing streak come to an end. Only the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had a longer skid with 26 games back in the late 70’s.
I wonder if the team including many of the players, coaches and floor sweepers who were not here last year, have the monkey off their back? Can they start wining now? They have had the taste of victory; now will they continue to sip the magic potion?
Let’s hope so. GO LIONS!
In Play! Magazine
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Detroit Lions Injury Report Sept 23
The following players have been listed on the Detroit Lions' Injury Report.
DID NOT PRACTICE:
DE Cliff Avril (hamstring)
LB Ernie Sims (shoulder)
LIMITED PRACTICE:
CB Phillip Buchanon (neck)
DE Andre Fluellen (knee)
DT Sammie Hill (neck)
DT Grady Jackson (knee)
CB Eric King (shoulder)
QB Drew Stanton (knee)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE:
FB Jerome Felton (ankle)
G Daniel Loper (knee)
S Marquand Manuel (knee)
In Play! Magazine
DID NOT PRACTICE:
DE Cliff Avril (hamstring)
LB Ernie Sims (shoulder)
LIMITED PRACTICE:
CB Phillip Buchanon (neck)
DE Andre Fluellen (knee)
DT Sammie Hill (neck)
DT Grady Jackson (knee)
CB Eric King (shoulder)
QB Drew Stanton (knee)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE:
FB Jerome Felton (ankle)
G Daniel Loper (knee)
S Marquand Manuel (knee)
In Play! Magazine
Monday, September 21, 2009
Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz Addresses The Media After Game 2 Lose.
Jim Schwartz held his weekly press conference today and spoke briefly about Sunday's lose.
Anybody who watched the game has their own opinons but let's see what Head Coach Schwartz has to say.
“There are a lot of different ways that you can look at this game. As a player, as a coach, as a fan – you can look at a lot of different things. Are we the team that jumped up 10-0 and played really well and was on a roll? Are we the team that finished 3 and 27 and didn’t finish the game very well, particularly those first couple of drives after the half?"
Schwartz continues, “If you look at the game, you can find a lot of positives. If you look at the game you can find a lot of negatives. In other words, the answer is, we’re somewhere in between. We’re not yet the team that started 10-0. We’re not the team that finished 27-3. We’re somewhere in between and until we learn to play with a lead, when we get a 10-0 lead and all of a sudden extend into 17-0 and keep on driving and keep expecting good things to happen, we’re not going to be the team that we want to be. We need to learn to play with a lead. We need to have that instinct to go ahead and finish it and not wait for something bad to happen. "
Schwartz comments on the Lions Defense by saying, “Defensively, it’s the same thing. We can’t start off and then – you look at Adrian Peterson’s runs, we bottled him up really well at times and, particularly on our backside, and in contain we would lose some edges with him and we had some long runs that came out: 57 yards on two carries, that’s unacceptable also."
So now what? What's on tap for game three? Schwartz says, "Really the answer, as we look at things: we need to learn to play with a lead, we need to finish what we start and we need the confidence to be able to do that.”
As far as Ernie Sims' injury goes, it's not good. The Head Coach says, “Ernie’s got a fairly significant shoulder (injury) the extent of which is still being tested. There’s a good chance that he’ll miss some time.”
In Play! Magazine Current Lions Issue
Anybody who watched the game has their own opinons but let's see what Head Coach Schwartz has to say.
“There are a lot of different ways that you can look at this game. As a player, as a coach, as a fan – you can look at a lot of different things. Are we the team that jumped up 10-0 and played really well and was on a roll? Are we the team that finished 3 and 27 and didn’t finish the game very well, particularly those first couple of drives after the half?"
Schwartz continues, “If you look at the game, you can find a lot of positives. If you look at the game you can find a lot of negatives. In other words, the answer is, we’re somewhere in between. We’re not yet the team that started 10-0. We’re not the team that finished 27-3. We’re somewhere in between and until we learn to play with a lead, when we get a 10-0 lead and all of a sudden extend into 17-0 and keep on driving and keep expecting good things to happen, we’re not going to be the team that we want to be. We need to learn to play with a lead. We need to have that instinct to go ahead and finish it and not wait for something bad to happen. "
Schwartz comments on the Lions Defense by saying, “Defensively, it’s the same thing. We can’t start off and then – you look at Adrian Peterson’s runs, we bottled him up really well at times and, particularly on our backside, and in contain we would lose some edges with him and we had some long runs that came out: 57 yards on two carries, that’s unacceptable also."
So now what? What's on tap for game three? Schwartz says, "Really the answer, as we look at things: we need to learn to play with a lead, we need to finish what we start and we need the confidence to be able to do that.”
As far as Ernie Sims' injury goes, it's not good. The Head Coach says, “Ernie’s got a fairly significant shoulder (injury) the extent of which is still being tested. There’s a good chance that he’ll miss some time.”
In Play! Magazine Current Lions Issue
Friday, September 18, 2009
DETROIT LIONS REACH SELLOUT FOR SUNDAY'S GAME VS. MINNESOTA
Allen Park, Mich. - The Detroit Lions have reached a sellout for Sunday's home-opener against NFC North rival Minnesota Vikings. By reaching a sellout by today's 1 p.m. deadline, Sunday's game will air live in the local television markets (Metro Detroit, Lansing, Saginaw/Flint and Toledo markets), including WJBK-TV FOX 2.
In Play! Magazine
In Play! Magazine
FORMER LIONS' LINEMAN BOB KOWALKOWSKI DIES
Allen Park, Mich. - An ironman along the offensive line for the Detroit Lions from 1966-76 and a pillar in the community has died. Bob Kowalkowski, 65, died last night at Henry Ford Hospital in West Bloomfield (Mich.) after a brief illness.
Kowalkowski was a Lions' starting guard through most of his 11 seasons in Detroit after he was drafted as a future pick in the seventh round from Virginia in 1965. The 6-foot-3, 245-pound lineman immediately stepped into a starting slot at left guard as a rookie in 1966 and was switched to right guard in 1968. He started every game for the Lions for five straight seasons (1972-1976) before being traded to Cleveland in 1977. He finished his career playing four games for Coach Bart Starr and the Green Bay Packers in '77.
Kowalkowski played in 138 games during his Lions' career.
"Bob exemplified the tough, physical player you had to be to succeed in the NFL," praised Pro Football Hall of Famer Charlie Sanders who played nine seasons with Kowalkowski. "When you played with him you knew he had your back, and if he was your friend he was your friend for life."
Quarterback Greg Landry counted Kowalkowski as among the leaders on his offensive line.
"Bob was a little undersized compared to most offensive linemen, but he made up for it with hard work and always going the extra measure in the weight room, film room or during practices," recalled Landry. "Also, I will always remember how much Bob loved to hunt and fish. He and teammates Larry Hand and Ed Flanagan took every chance they could to enjoy the Michigan outdoors."
Tackle Jim Yarbrough was another standout on the Lions' offensive line from 1969-1977 and fondly remembers Kowalkowski as "determined to outwork everyone. Bob left everything on the field each Sunday. When I came in as a rookie he told me to be very thankful we had line coach Chuck Knox. Bob told me to keep my mouth shut and learn to do things the right way.
He was always a leader by example and a great role model for the work ethic required to be a real professional."
For 44 years, the Kowalkowski family has been closely associated with the Lions. Kowalkowski was drafted by the Lions in 1965 and, since 1990, Bob's wife Judy has worked in the Lions' front office and is the Lions' manager of accounting operations.
Another football Kowalkowski, son Scott, was signed as a free agent by the Lions in 1994 and was a standout on special teams and at linebacker for Detroit through 2001. Daughter Robin owns her own business in Chicago.
"The entire Kowalkowski family means a great deal to our organization," said Tom Lewand, president of the Lions. "Obviously, the football side of their contributions is well known but, off the field, the family contributes enormously to the Lions and to our entire community. Bob was a special leader on the field and off."
Community involvement is another Kowalkowski family tradition.
Bob Kowalkowski founded the "Kowalkowski Open" golf tournament in 1973 with friends from the Gladwin (Mich.) Lions Club to support Leader Dogs for the Blind. He also was active with the Danny Thomas March and co-chairman for the St. Jude's Children's Hospital Radiothon during his Lions' career. His Bob Kowalkowski Scholarship Award helped enable students with financial needs and high academic achievements attend college. He was voted the Lions' "Man of the Year" for his community involvement in 1975.
In 1991, the Kowalkowski Open grew into what is now known as Kolo Charities, which has helped raise thousands of dollars for a variety of charities in Michigan. Included among them is the Detroit Lions Courage House which benefits the child abuse prevention and treatment program at HAVEN in Oakland County.
In Play! Magazine
Kowalkowski was a Lions' starting guard through most of his 11 seasons in Detroit after he was drafted as a future pick in the seventh round from Virginia in 1965. The 6-foot-3, 245-pound lineman immediately stepped into a starting slot at left guard as a rookie in 1966 and was switched to right guard in 1968. He started every game for the Lions for five straight seasons (1972-1976) before being traded to Cleveland in 1977. He finished his career playing four games for Coach Bart Starr and the Green Bay Packers in '77.
Kowalkowski played in 138 games during his Lions' career.
"Bob exemplified the tough, physical player you had to be to succeed in the NFL," praised Pro Football Hall of Famer Charlie Sanders who played nine seasons with Kowalkowski. "When you played with him you knew he had your back, and if he was your friend he was your friend for life."
Quarterback Greg Landry counted Kowalkowski as among the leaders on his offensive line.
"Bob was a little undersized compared to most offensive linemen, but he made up for it with hard work and always going the extra measure in the weight room, film room or during practices," recalled Landry. "Also, I will always remember how much Bob loved to hunt and fish. He and teammates Larry Hand and Ed Flanagan took every chance they could to enjoy the Michigan outdoors."
Tackle Jim Yarbrough was another standout on the Lions' offensive line from 1969-1977 and fondly remembers Kowalkowski as "determined to outwork everyone. Bob left everything on the field each Sunday. When I came in as a rookie he told me to be very thankful we had line coach Chuck Knox. Bob told me to keep my mouth shut and learn to do things the right way.
He was always a leader by example and a great role model for the work ethic required to be a real professional."
For 44 years, the Kowalkowski family has been closely associated with the Lions. Kowalkowski was drafted by the Lions in 1965 and, since 1990, Bob's wife Judy has worked in the Lions' front office and is the Lions' manager of accounting operations.
Another football Kowalkowski, son Scott, was signed as a free agent by the Lions in 1994 and was a standout on special teams and at linebacker for Detroit through 2001. Daughter Robin owns her own business in Chicago.
"The entire Kowalkowski family means a great deal to our organization," said Tom Lewand, president of the Lions. "Obviously, the football side of their contributions is well known but, off the field, the family contributes enormously to the Lions and to our entire community. Bob was a special leader on the field and off."
Community involvement is another Kowalkowski family tradition.
Bob Kowalkowski founded the "Kowalkowski Open" golf tournament in 1973 with friends from the Gladwin (Mich.) Lions Club to support Leader Dogs for the Blind. He also was active with the Danny Thomas March and co-chairman for the St. Jude's Children's Hospital Radiothon during his Lions' career. His Bob Kowalkowski Scholarship Award helped enable students with financial needs and high academic achievements attend college. He was voted the Lions' "Man of the Year" for his community involvement in 1975.
In 1991, the Kowalkowski Open grew into what is now known as Kolo Charities, which has helped raise thousands of dollars for a variety of charities in Michigan. Included among them is the Detroit Lions Courage House which benefits the child abuse prevention and treatment program at HAVEN in Oakland County.
In Play! Magazine
Thursday, September 17, 2009
FORMER LIONS' HEAD COACH MONTE CLARK DIES AT AGE 72
Clark coached Lions 1978-84 and was Dolphins' assistant in 17-0 season
Allen Park, Mich.- Monte Clark, a long-time player and coach in the National Football League including seven seasons as head coach of the Detroit Lions (1978-84), died last night (September 16) at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit after an extended illness with a bone marrow malignancy associated with lung and liver disease. He was 72.
Clark is survived by his wife of 52 years, Charlotte, sons Randy (and wife Michele), Bryan and Eric (and wife Beth) and eight grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Don of Kingsburg, Calif., and sisters Dolene Nelson of Kingsburg and Kathy Lowe of Clovis, Calif.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home (248.549.0500). The family has asked in lieu of flowers or food donations, that memorial donations be made to the Kirk in the Hills Church Outreach and Benevolence Funds (1340 Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302; 248.626.2515).
"Monte will always be remembered as a consummate football man," praised Lions President Tom Lewand. "He knew football inside and out, and had a passion for it. He played the game at a high level and had success wherever he coached. Monte also had a terrific sense of humor. Anyone who knew him could tell you Monte stories that always bring a laugh. Our deepest sympathies go out to Charlotte and the entire Clark family. He will be greatly missed."
In 1978, Clark's first year as head coach of the Lions, Detroit drafted defensive lineman Al "Bubba" Baker in the second round. Baker set the NFL on fire recording 23 quarterback sacks that season and was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.
"Monte Clark taught me how to be a professional," said Baker. "When you are a young kid coming into the pros, you have a lot to learn. I didn't see everything he was trying to teach me right away but as my career progressed I said 'Thank God for Monte Clark.' He helped smooth out my rough edges and that enabled me to have a 13-year NFL career. I have the deepest respect for Coach."
In 1980, Clark helped engineer a Lions' draft that brought running back Billy Sims to Detroit with the first overall pick, quarterback Eric Hipple in the fourth round and, in the seventh round, place-kicker Eddie Murray.
Sims was the NFL Rookie of the Year in 1980 when he rushed for 1,303 yards and scored 13 touchdowns.
"I thought the world of Coach Clark and had the upmost respect for him," said Sims. "I really appreciated that he was always in my corner."
Hipple played 10 seasons for the Lions (1980-89) and burst onto the scene in his first NFL start on October 19, 1981. Hipple passed for four touchdowns and rushed for two more scores in a 48-17 Lions' romp over the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football.
"I developed a warm relationship with Coach over the many years that we knew each other," said Hipple. "He had a great mind in coaching football particularly on offense, and he was always there for me to help in any way he could during my difficult times years ago."
Murray was selected MVP of the NFL Pro Bowl after his rookie season and ranks 12th in all-time NFL scoring after a 19-season career, his first 12 years in Detroit.
"I will always hold a special place in my heart for Monte after the Lions drafted me in 1980," reflected Murray. "He gave me an opportunity and saw things in me that I didn't see. He always encouraged me to be the best I could possibly be."
Monte Clark enjoyed a football career that spanned over the past 60 years. He was an extraordinary talent out of high school, he played for one of the nation's most historic college football programs, he blocked for one of the NFL's greatest all-time players, he was on the coaching staff of the last undefeated NFL team and he served as a head coach at the pro level, leading the franchise to back-to-back playoff appearances.
While he had many steps along the way, Clark was very much involved in the game up until his recent illness.
NFL COACHING CAREER
Overall, Clark was involved both as a player and as a coach in the NFL World Championship or Super Bowl five times and had three Super Bowl or Championship rings to show for it.
Monte Clark was the head coach for the Detroit Lions from 1978-84 (seven season), and his 1983 squad was the first Lions team in 26 previous years to win the Central Division title. Clark led the Lions to back-to-back playoff appearances in 1982-83, which was the first time the Lions had accomplished that since the team's three-straight playoff runs from 1952-54.
Clark's two best seasons were 1980 and 1983 when the Lions finished 9-7 in each of those years. He complied a coaching record of 63-61-1 (.457) in the regular season. Including postseason, Clark led the Lions on the sidelines for 107 games.
During Clark's seven-year tenure with the Lions, seven players were named to 14 Pro Bowls. Those players included DE Al "Bubba" Baker (1979, 1981), T Keith Dorney (1983), DE Doug English (1979, 1982-84), TE David Hill (1979-80), K Eddie Murray (1981), P Tom Skladany (1982) and RB Billy Sims (1981-83). At least two members of the Lions offense, defense and special teams each were represented in the Pro Bowl during Clark's time in Detroit.
Besides the two playoff runs, Clark's teams are remembered for Sims' spectacular splash into the NFL as a rookie in 1980 and for the dominating defensive line that earned the nickname "Silver Rush" led by Baker and English. Sims was the 1980 NFL Rookie of the Year and Baker was the 1978 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Baker, English, Murray and Sims were named to the Detroit Lions 75th Season All-Time Team in 2008.
Clark entered the coaching ranks after the 1969 season when he retired as a player and took a post with the Miami Dolphins as Don Shula's offensive line coach. Based largely on the way the Browns had successfully run the football over the years, Clark was also responsible for the Dolphins run offense planning.
Clark built his coaching reputation in Miami by developing a makeshift line of free agents and cast-offs into arguably one of the best offensive line units of all time, which he nicknamed "The Mushrooms." All five became Pro Bowl performers. Two of his linemen (Little and Langer) are in the NFL Hall of Fame, and a third player, Bob Kuechenberg, has been on the last five Hall of Fame ballots.
In the six seasons Clark worked for the Dolphins, they were in three Super Bowls-winning two (1972 & 1973) including the only "Perfect Season",17-0 in 1972, in NFL history. They also set the all-time single season rushing record and were the first team ever to have both backs over 1,000 yards in a single season.
"The Mushrooms" distinguished themselves for their pass protection, clever techniques, flawless precision and physical playing style.
In 1976, Clark left the Dolphins and accepted the position as Head Coach and Director of Football Operations for the San Francisco 49ers. He turned the team around and posted an 8-6 record.
The 49ers were sold, and although the 49ers wanted him to stay, Clark accepted a similar position as head coach of the Detroit Lions.
Clark returned to the Miami Dolphins and worked both as a Pro Personnel Director and later as offensive line coach until coach Don Shula retired in 1995. He also spent a couple of years with his long time friend Bill Walsh at Stanford University; then did a stint at University of California (Berkeley) as offensive line coach.
For 10 years (1999-2008), Clark served as a consultant for the Detroit Lions.
IN PLAY! MAGAZINE - LIONS SPECIAL ISSUE
Allen Park, Mich.- Monte Clark, a long-time player and coach in the National Football League including seven seasons as head coach of the Detroit Lions (1978-84), died last night (September 16) at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit after an extended illness with a bone marrow malignancy associated with lung and liver disease. He was 72.
Clark is survived by his wife of 52 years, Charlotte, sons Randy (and wife Michele), Bryan and Eric (and wife Beth) and eight grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Don of Kingsburg, Calif., and sisters Dolene Nelson of Kingsburg and Kathy Lowe of Clovis, Calif.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home (248.549.0500). The family has asked in lieu of flowers or food donations, that memorial donations be made to the Kirk in the Hills Church Outreach and Benevolence Funds (1340 Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302; 248.626.2515).
"Monte will always be remembered as a consummate football man," praised Lions President Tom Lewand. "He knew football inside and out, and had a passion for it. He played the game at a high level and had success wherever he coached. Monte also had a terrific sense of humor. Anyone who knew him could tell you Monte stories that always bring a laugh. Our deepest sympathies go out to Charlotte and the entire Clark family. He will be greatly missed."
In 1978, Clark's first year as head coach of the Lions, Detroit drafted defensive lineman Al "Bubba" Baker in the second round. Baker set the NFL on fire recording 23 quarterback sacks that season and was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.
"Monte Clark taught me how to be a professional," said Baker. "When you are a young kid coming into the pros, you have a lot to learn. I didn't see everything he was trying to teach me right away but as my career progressed I said 'Thank God for Monte Clark.' He helped smooth out my rough edges and that enabled me to have a 13-year NFL career. I have the deepest respect for Coach."
In 1980, Clark helped engineer a Lions' draft that brought running back Billy Sims to Detroit with the first overall pick, quarterback Eric Hipple in the fourth round and, in the seventh round, place-kicker Eddie Murray.
Sims was the NFL Rookie of the Year in 1980 when he rushed for 1,303 yards and scored 13 touchdowns.
"I thought the world of Coach Clark and had the upmost respect for him," said Sims. "I really appreciated that he was always in my corner."
Hipple played 10 seasons for the Lions (1980-89) and burst onto the scene in his first NFL start on October 19, 1981. Hipple passed for four touchdowns and rushed for two more scores in a 48-17 Lions' romp over the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football.
"I developed a warm relationship with Coach over the many years that we knew each other," said Hipple. "He had a great mind in coaching football particularly on offense, and he was always there for me to help in any way he could during my difficult times years ago."
Murray was selected MVP of the NFL Pro Bowl after his rookie season and ranks 12th in all-time NFL scoring after a 19-season career, his first 12 years in Detroit.
"I will always hold a special place in my heart for Monte after the Lions drafted me in 1980," reflected Murray. "He gave me an opportunity and saw things in me that I didn't see. He always encouraged me to be the best I could possibly be."
Monte Clark enjoyed a football career that spanned over the past 60 years. He was an extraordinary talent out of high school, he played for one of the nation's most historic college football programs, he blocked for one of the NFL's greatest all-time players, he was on the coaching staff of the last undefeated NFL team and he served as a head coach at the pro level, leading the franchise to back-to-back playoff appearances.
While he had many steps along the way, Clark was very much involved in the game up until his recent illness.
NFL COACHING CAREER
Overall, Clark was involved both as a player and as a coach in the NFL World Championship or Super Bowl five times and had three Super Bowl or Championship rings to show for it.
Monte Clark was the head coach for the Detroit Lions from 1978-84 (seven season), and his 1983 squad was the first Lions team in 26 previous years to win the Central Division title. Clark led the Lions to back-to-back playoff appearances in 1982-83, which was the first time the Lions had accomplished that since the team's three-straight playoff runs from 1952-54.
Clark's two best seasons were 1980 and 1983 when the Lions finished 9-7 in each of those years. He complied a coaching record of 63-61-1 (.457) in the regular season. Including postseason, Clark led the Lions on the sidelines for 107 games.
During Clark's seven-year tenure with the Lions, seven players were named to 14 Pro Bowls. Those players included DE Al "Bubba" Baker (1979, 1981), T Keith Dorney (1983), DE Doug English (1979, 1982-84), TE David Hill (1979-80), K Eddie Murray (1981), P Tom Skladany (1982) and RB Billy Sims (1981-83). At least two members of the Lions offense, defense and special teams each were represented in the Pro Bowl during Clark's time in Detroit.
Besides the two playoff runs, Clark's teams are remembered for Sims' spectacular splash into the NFL as a rookie in 1980 and for the dominating defensive line that earned the nickname "Silver Rush" led by Baker and English. Sims was the 1980 NFL Rookie of the Year and Baker was the 1978 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Baker, English, Murray and Sims were named to the Detroit Lions 75th Season All-Time Team in 2008.
Clark entered the coaching ranks after the 1969 season when he retired as a player and took a post with the Miami Dolphins as Don Shula's offensive line coach. Based largely on the way the Browns had successfully run the football over the years, Clark was also responsible for the Dolphins run offense planning.
Clark built his coaching reputation in Miami by developing a makeshift line of free agents and cast-offs into arguably one of the best offensive line units of all time, which he nicknamed "The Mushrooms." All five became Pro Bowl performers. Two of his linemen (Little and Langer) are in the NFL Hall of Fame, and a third player, Bob Kuechenberg, has been on the last five Hall of Fame ballots.
In the six seasons Clark worked for the Dolphins, they were in three Super Bowls-winning two (1972 & 1973) including the only "Perfect Season",17-0 in 1972, in NFL history. They also set the all-time single season rushing record and were the first team ever to have both backs over 1,000 yards in a single season.
"The Mushrooms" distinguished themselves for their pass protection, clever techniques, flawless precision and physical playing style.
In 1976, Clark left the Dolphins and accepted the position as Head Coach and Director of Football Operations for the San Francisco 49ers. He turned the team around and posted an 8-6 record.
The 49ers were sold, and although the 49ers wanted him to stay, Clark accepted a similar position as head coach of the Detroit Lions.
Clark returned to the Miami Dolphins and worked both as a Pro Personnel Director and later as offensive line coach until coach Don Shula retired in 1995. He also spent a couple of years with his long time friend Bill Walsh at Stanford University; then did a stint at University of California (Berkeley) as offensive line coach.
For 10 years (1999-2008), Clark served as a consultant for the Detroit Lions.
IN PLAY! MAGAZINE - LIONS SPECIAL ISSUE
Monday, September 14, 2009
Head Coach Jim Schwartz Opening Statement From Today's Press Conference
Opening statement
Monday, Sept 14.
“By midnight tonight, there are going to be 16 teams in the NFL that are going to be dealing with a loss and losses are a fact of life in the NFL. I was with a team in Nashville that started 0-5 and fought back and almost went to the playoffs. I was on a team that started 1-4 and ended up in the AFC Championship game. We’ve seen teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers lose three in a row and go to the Super Bowl and win the Super Bowl. We’ve seen teams like Indianapolis – I think they lost three out of their last five the year they won the Super Bowl.
“Every team loses; it’s a fact of life in the NFL. The way that you deal with it and what happens as a result of the loss is what separates the good teams from the bad teams. Teams that don’t make the same mistakes over and over again, teams that learn from their mistakes are teams that win those battles. I told the team, there are a lot of things that go into dealing with a loss. No. 1 is: know exactly what happened; you can’t deal with it (and) you can’t put it behind you if you don’t know what happened. We needed to identify what happened, we need to address it and then we need to put those mistakes behind us and that’s the players’ job to be able to execute and not let those mistakes happen again. It’s the coach’s job to identify the mistakes, to come up with solutions and it’s the player’s job to execute those. That’s going to be our challenge.
“Every team deals with losses, we’re no different than anybody else. Our challenge is putting it behind us, staying in the right frame of mind and going forward.”
In Play! Magazine
Monday, Sept 14.
“By midnight tonight, there are going to be 16 teams in the NFL that are going to be dealing with a loss and losses are a fact of life in the NFL. I was with a team in Nashville that started 0-5 and fought back and almost went to the playoffs. I was on a team that started 1-4 and ended up in the AFC Championship game. We’ve seen teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers lose three in a row and go to the Super Bowl and win the Super Bowl. We’ve seen teams like Indianapolis – I think they lost three out of their last five the year they won the Super Bowl.
“Every team loses; it’s a fact of life in the NFL. The way that you deal with it and what happens as a result of the loss is what separates the good teams from the bad teams. Teams that don’t make the same mistakes over and over again, teams that learn from their mistakes are teams that win those battles. I told the team, there are a lot of things that go into dealing with a loss. No. 1 is: know exactly what happened; you can’t deal with it (and) you can’t put it behind you if you don’t know what happened. We needed to identify what happened, we need to address it and then we need to put those mistakes behind us and that’s the players’ job to be able to execute and not let those mistakes happen again. It’s the coach’s job to identify the mistakes, to come up with solutions and it’s the player’s job to execute those. That’s going to be our challenge.
“Every team deals with losses, we’re no different than anybody else. Our challenge is putting it behind us, staying in the right frame of mind and going forward.”
In Play! Magazine
Friday, September 11, 2009
DETROIT LIONS UPDATE SEPT 11, 2009
DETROIT LIONS UPDATE SEPT 11, 2009
-The Lions practiced in shorts on the outdoor fields today at the team's headquarters and practice facility in Allen Park.
-Following practice today, Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz announced the team's 2009 captains: LB Larry Foote (defense), K Jason Hanson (special teams) and C Dominic Raiola (offense).
-Foote, Hanson and Raiola will serve as team captains for the entire 2009 season. Each player will wear a team captain patch that includes a block "C" on the right shoulder of their game jerseys. Being named team captain in 2009 marked the fourth-straight season Raiola has been named team captain, and it is the third consecutive year Hanson was named captain. This is the first year that Foote has been named captain during his NFL career. The "C" patch for Raiola and Hanson will each have three gold stars under the "C" signifying their three years of being selected captain since the NFL began its captain initiative in 2007.
-This is the fourth-straight year the Lions selected team captains for the entire season. Prior to the launch of the new NFL initiative, the team captains in 2006 were recognized with a gold "C" on their practice jersey and a sign in their locker.
-With an appearance this Sunday at New Orleans in the team's season opener, K Jason Hanson will push his franchise record of seasons played to 18. Hanson will become the fifth player in NFL history to play at least one game for 18 seasons with the team that drafted them. The all-time leaders among that group are T Jackie Slater (Los Angeles Rams; 20), CB Darrell Green (Washington; 20), C Bruce Matthews (Houston Oilers, Tennessee Oilers/Titans; 19) and Jeff Van Note (Atlanta Falcons; 18).
-This will also mark Hanson's 272nd career game with the Lions, which is also a franchise record.
-The following players have been listed on the Detroit Lions' Injury Report: G Stephen Peterman (ankle) and QB Drew Stanton (knee) did not practice today; CB Phillip Buchanon (neck), WR Yamon Figurs (finger), K Jason Hanson (knee), DE Jason Hunter (ribs), DT Grady Jackson (knee) and WR Dennis Northcutt (hand) were limited in practice. Stanton is doubtful; Buchanon, Figurs and Peterman are questionable and Hanson, Hunter, Jackson and Northcutt are probable for Sunday's game. TE Casey FitzSimmons (knee) and CB Anthony Henry (shoulder) were removed from the injury report today and Jackson was upgraded from no practice to limited practice.
-The following players were listed on the New Orleans Saints' Injury Report today: T Jammal Brown (hernia), TE Darnell Dinkins (foot), TE Jeremy Shockey (ankle) and RB Pierre Thomas (knee) did not practice and S Usama Young (shoulder) had full participation in practice today. Brown, Dinkins and Thomas are out and Shockey and Young are probable for Sunday's game. Shockey was added to the team's injury list today.
-The Detroit Lions will travel to New Orleans this weekend to open up the regular season against the Saints at the Superdome on Sunday, September 13 at 1 p.m. This week's matchup marks the 20th regular season meeting between the two teams. The game will be televised live in Metro Detroit on WJBK-TV FOX Channel 2 with Chris Myers handling play-by-play and Trent Green adding color commentary. The game will also be broadcast on the Lions Radio Network (WKRK 97.1 FM) with announcer Dan Miller handling play-by-play, Jim Brandstatter adding color commentary and Tony Ortiz reporting from the sideline.
In Play! Magazine Current Issue featuring the Detroit Lions on the Cover Story
-The Lions practiced in shorts on the outdoor fields today at the team's headquarters and practice facility in Allen Park.
-Following practice today, Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz announced the team's 2009 captains: LB Larry Foote (defense), K Jason Hanson (special teams) and C Dominic Raiola (offense).
-Foote, Hanson and Raiola will serve as team captains for the entire 2009 season. Each player will wear a team captain patch that includes a block "C" on the right shoulder of their game jerseys. Being named team captain in 2009 marked the fourth-straight season Raiola has been named team captain, and it is the third consecutive year Hanson was named captain. This is the first year that Foote has been named captain during his NFL career. The "C" patch for Raiola and Hanson will each have three gold stars under the "C" signifying their three years of being selected captain since the NFL began its captain initiative in 2007.
-This is the fourth-straight year the Lions selected team captains for the entire season. Prior to the launch of the new NFL initiative, the team captains in 2006 were recognized with a gold "C" on their practice jersey and a sign in their locker.
-With an appearance this Sunday at New Orleans in the team's season opener, K Jason Hanson will push his franchise record of seasons played to 18. Hanson will become the fifth player in NFL history to play at least one game for 18 seasons with the team that drafted them. The all-time leaders among that group are T Jackie Slater (Los Angeles Rams; 20), CB Darrell Green (Washington; 20), C Bruce Matthews (Houston Oilers, Tennessee Oilers/Titans; 19) and Jeff Van Note (Atlanta Falcons; 18).
-This will also mark Hanson's 272nd career game with the Lions, which is also a franchise record.
-The following players have been listed on the Detroit Lions' Injury Report: G Stephen Peterman (ankle) and QB Drew Stanton (knee) did not practice today; CB Phillip Buchanon (neck), WR Yamon Figurs (finger), K Jason Hanson (knee), DE Jason Hunter (ribs), DT Grady Jackson (knee) and WR Dennis Northcutt (hand) were limited in practice. Stanton is doubtful; Buchanon, Figurs and Peterman are questionable and Hanson, Hunter, Jackson and Northcutt are probable for Sunday's game. TE Casey FitzSimmons (knee) and CB Anthony Henry (shoulder) were removed from the injury report today and Jackson was upgraded from no practice to limited practice.
-The following players were listed on the New Orleans Saints' Injury Report today: T Jammal Brown (hernia), TE Darnell Dinkins (foot), TE Jeremy Shockey (ankle) and RB Pierre Thomas (knee) did not practice and S Usama Young (shoulder) had full participation in practice today. Brown, Dinkins and Thomas are out and Shockey and Young are probable for Sunday's game. Shockey was added to the team's injury list today.
-The Detroit Lions will travel to New Orleans this weekend to open up the regular season against the Saints at the Superdome on Sunday, September 13 at 1 p.m. This week's matchup marks the 20th regular season meeting between the two teams. The game will be televised live in Metro Detroit on WJBK-TV FOX Channel 2 with Chris Myers handling play-by-play and Trent Green adding color commentary. The game will also be broadcast on the Lions Radio Network (WKRK 97.1 FM) with announcer Dan Miller handling play-by-play, Jim Brandstatter adding color commentary and Tony Ortiz reporting from the sideline.
In Play! Magazine Current Issue featuring the Detroit Lions on the Cover Story
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
STATEMENT FROM DETROIT LIONS QB DAUNTE CULPEPPER
The following was a statement issued in a press release September 8, from Daunte Culpepper and the Detroit Lions.
“Now that the debate is over and the decision has been made regarding the starting quarterback in Detroit, I would like to make the following statement today so that tomorrow I can put all of my energy into helping our team prepare for our opponent.
“The reason I agreed to restructure my contract in order to stay in Detroit was because I knew that I would have a chance to have a full off-season for the first time in over three years. I also knew that I would have an opportunity to finally compete against whoever the Lions brought in whether via free agency, trade or the draft.
When the Lions selected Matthew Stafford first overall I was excited. My position is that if you want to be the best you have to beat the best. Coach Schwartz gave me a fair opportunity to compete for the starting job and now the decision has been made that Matt is the best quarterback in Detroit.
I support the decision and I am ready to settle into my role. Matt is a great guy and a talented young quarterback. I am confident that he will lead this team to plenty of victories in Detroit for a long time to come. I look forward to helping Matt in that mission in any way that I can this year. My role as his back-up is not to be seen unless needed and not to be heard from unless required.
The Lions organization has treated me with respect and class and they can expect the same from me.”
It looks like a good PR move to squash any QB controversy. The team has enough to worry about. Put this to bed and move on... "NEXT"!
In Play! Magazine
“Now that the debate is over and the decision has been made regarding the starting quarterback in Detroit, I would like to make the following statement today so that tomorrow I can put all of my energy into helping our team prepare for our opponent.
“The reason I agreed to restructure my contract in order to stay in Detroit was because I knew that I would have a chance to have a full off-season for the first time in over three years. I also knew that I would have an opportunity to finally compete against whoever the Lions brought in whether via free agency, trade or the draft.
When the Lions selected Matthew Stafford first overall I was excited. My position is that if you want to be the best you have to beat the best. Coach Schwartz gave me a fair opportunity to compete for the starting job and now the decision has been made that Matt is the best quarterback in Detroit.
I support the decision and I am ready to settle into my role. Matt is a great guy and a talented young quarterback. I am confident that he will lead this team to plenty of victories in Detroit for a long time to come. I look forward to helping Matt in that mission in any way that I can this year. My role as his back-up is not to be seen unless needed and not to be heard from unless required.
The Lions organization has treated me with respect and class and they can expect the same from me.”
It looks like a good PR move to squash any QB controversy. The team has enough to worry about. Put this to bed and move on... "NEXT"!
In Play! Magazine
Sunday, September 6, 2009
DETROIT LIONS TRADE QB KEVIN O’CONNELL TO NEW YORK JETS
Team releases three players; Sign seven players to practice squad
Allen Park, Mich. - The Detroit Lions announced today that they have traded QB Kevin O’Connell to the New York Jets for an undisclosed future draft pick. The team also released DE Ikaika Alama-Francis, CB Cletis Gordon and WR Adam Jennings.
Seven players were signed today by the Lions to the team’s practice squad, including: WR John Broussard (San Jose State), TE Carson Butler (Michigan), RB Tristan Davis (Auburn), LB Zack Follett (California), C Dan Gerberry (Ball State), TE Dan Gronkowski (Maryland) and T Lydon Murtha (Nebraska).
In Play! Magazine
Allen Park, Mich. - The Detroit Lions announced today that they have traded QB Kevin O’Connell to the New York Jets for an undisclosed future draft pick. The team also released DE Ikaika Alama-Francis, CB Cletis Gordon and WR Adam Jennings.
Seven players were signed today by the Lions to the team’s practice squad, including: WR John Broussard (San Jose State), TE Carson Butler (Michigan), RB Tristan Davis (Auburn), LB Zack Follett (California), C Dan Gerberry (Ball State), TE Dan Gronkowski (Maryland) and T Lydon Murtha (Nebraska).
In Play! Magazine
Saturday, September 5, 2009
LIONS ACQUIRE S KO SIMPSON VIA TRADE WITH BUFFALO, Releases DE Orion Martin
Allen Park, Mich.- The Detroit Lions announced today that they have acquired S Ko Simpson from the Buffalo Bills in exchange for an undisclosed 2010 draft choice. The trade is pending Simpson passing a physical. The team also released DE Orion Martin.
Simpson (6-1, 202) arrives in Detroit after spending three seasons with the Buffalo Bills. During his career, he collected 157 tackles (110 solo), two interceptions, five pass defenses, one sack and one fumble recovery. He has appeared in 33 career games (27 starts).
In 2008, he played in all 16 games and registered 64 tackles, including a career-high tally of eight stops vs. New England December 26. He returned to action last year after missing the vast majority of the 2007 with a leg injury he suffered in the season opener. During his rookie season in 2006, he finished fifth on the team with 92 tackles and had two interceptions. Simpson was drafted by the Bills in the fourth round (105th overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft out of South Carolina.
In Play! Magazine
Simpson (6-1, 202) arrives in Detroit after spending three seasons with the Buffalo Bills. During his career, he collected 157 tackles (110 solo), two interceptions, five pass defenses, one sack and one fumble recovery. He has appeared in 33 career games (27 starts).
In 2008, he played in all 16 games and registered 64 tackles, including a career-high tally of eight stops vs. New England December 26. He returned to action last year after missing the vast majority of the 2007 with a leg injury he suffered in the season opener. During his rookie season in 2006, he finished fifth on the team with 92 tackles and had two interceptions. Simpson was drafted by the Bills in the fourth round (105th overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft out of South Carolina.
In Play! Magazine
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Lions Update - Stafford To Start Against Buffalo
-The Lions held a walkthrough on the indoor field today at the team's headquarters and practice facility in Allen Park. The team then attended the 13th Annual Detroit Lions Kickoff Luncheon at Ford Field before traveling to Buffalo.
-Following today's walkthrough, Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz informed the media that QB Matthew Stafford will begin the game at Buffalo and that QB Daunte Culpepper's availability will be a game-time decision.
-The Lions have announced that they've released CB Keith Smith and WR Glenn Holt and claimed (via waivers) QB Kevin O'Connell (New England Patriots).
-QB Drew Stanton had an arthroscopic procedure (Dr. James Andrews) today. He sustained a minor knee (left) injury during Saturday's game against Indianapolis. Further information will be provided as warranted.
-The Detroit Lions will finish out their preseason tomorrow night when they take on the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. This week's matchup marks the eighth consecutive year the two teams have closed out each other's preseasons. This week's game will be televised live in Metro Detroit on WWJ-TV 62 (CBS) with Matt Shepard handling play-by-play, former Lions WR Desmond Howard adding color commentary and Steve Courtney and Hall of Fame TE Charlie Sanders reporting from the sideline.
Lions blog
-Following today's walkthrough, Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz informed the media that QB Matthew Stafford will begin the game at Buffalo and that QB Daunte Culpepper's availability will be a game-time decision.
-The Lions have announced that they've released CB Keith Smith and WR Glenn Holt and claimed (via waivers) QB Kevin O'Connell (New England Patriots).
-QB Drew Stanton had an arthroscopic procedure (Dr. James Andrews) today. He sustained a minor knee (left) injury during Saturday's game against Indianapolis. Further information will be provided as warranted.
-The Detroit Lions will finish out their preseason tomorrow night when they take on the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. This week's matchup marks the eighth consecutive year the two teams have closed out each other's preseasons. This week's game will be televised live in Metro Detroit on WWJ-TV 62 (CBS) with Matt Shepard handling play-by-play, former Lions WR Desmond Howard adding color commentary and Steve Courtney and Hall of Fame TE Charlie Sanders reporting from the sideline.
Lions blog
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)