The Detroit Lions are the only NFL franchise to go 0-16 in NFL history—a feat that was accomplished in the 2008 season.
Apparently, Lions defensive end Nick Fairley has forgotten that stat.
Thursday, Fairley predicted that the Detroit Lions would be contender this year and make a Super Bowl run for the 2013-14 season. The Lions finished the 2012 season with a record of 4-12 and selected fifth in the 2013 NFL Draft.
“I expect big things,” Fairley told Detroit News’ Terry Foster. “I am going to say we are going to the Super Bowl because I am competitive and that is what I want for the team and it is one of the goals. I am sure we are going to take it game by game and day by day.”
Fairley becomes the second player in the early going to make a prediction about his team’s Playoff fate. Fans might recall Elvis Dumervil making a similar statement two months prior. The only difference between Fairley and Dumervil is that the Denver Bronco is positive that his team will win the Super Bowl.
And the fact that Denver was actually a contender last year.
While the optimism is surely appreciated around the Motor City and its fan base, Fairley’s expectations might need some tampering. Sure Fairley and the Lions’ D are scary good, especially along the defensive line that features Fairley, Ndamukong Suh and rookie Ziggy Ansah, but the team goes as Matthew Stafford goes.
Despite a stellar projected defense, the offense remains a bit of a question mark. While the addition of Reggie Bush alongside Mikel LeShoure is a nice start, Stafford is in dire need of another receiving threat to partner with the dynamic Calvin Johnson.
Detroit is much-improved from their off-season acquisitions and draft selections, but predicting a Super Bowl might be a little premature for Fairley and company at this time.
Until the Lions earn key victories against the Packers, Bears, and Vikings, it might be best for Fairley to do his talking on the field.
More stories you might like