I started watching football around 1995 and became a Lions fan around 1997.
However I'm a student of the game and know my history of football and the Detroit Lions. I haven't checked the stats but I can almost assure you last years Lions team was better than any of the Barry Sanders Lions teams. In fact our run defense was Top 10 all time. I'd go as far as to say the 2014 Detroit Lions were the best Lions team ever.
One thing to take into account is the game has changed a lot since 1993. Barry Sanders and running backs were the focal point of most offenses back then while the game has transitioned into a passing league. Granted you still need a running game nowadays but back then you could ride or die with Scott Mitchell at Quarterback. Those Lions also had the great Herman Moore, Chris Spielman and Robert Porcher but the talent was no where near our 2014 roster.
If you put Scott Mitchell or Erik Kramer on last years Lions team they don't even make the playoffs, even with our stout defense.
I truly believe this is a Super Bowl contending team especially going into the second year with our coaching staff and added additions through the draft and free agency. That's also taking into account the loss of Suh.
I think we finally got the #3 WR I've been clamoring for years now and I think we added enough depth to shore up the offensive and defensive lines.
Martin Mayhew has done a hell of a job since he took this team over after the 0-16 pick and picked Matthew Stafford with the #1 pick in 2009.
If I were a Packer fan I'd be nervous. There is a changing of the guard in the NFC North, nay the NFC, and the Detroit Lions are about to be running the show.
The NFC North has changed. I feel it in the water. I feel it in the earth. I smell it in the air. Much that once was is lost, for none live now to remember it.
Restore the Roar