The Lions have the best D in the division? Really? They were a respectable 19th in points against last year, but what significant changes did they make to supplant the other 3 teams to become the top defense?

The secondary is still weak and the LBs don't scare anyone. There's no doubt that Suh is one of the best defensive players in the league in just his second year, but who else is a top tier talent on that defense? Cliff Avril? Good, not great. Vanden Bosch? He's averaged just under 4 sacks per year in the last 3 years.

There also seems to be an assumption that Fairley is going to come in and play at the same level that Suh did last year - highly unlikely and right now he isn't even on the practice field.

Now compare that to the Packers. Who have the Packers lost in the offseason that makes you think they'll drop in terms of defensive production? Not one critical player. Maybe Cullen Jenkins, but they do have players on the roster they think are ready to step in.

And what about Chicago? Did I miss something about Julius Peppers, Brian Urlacher, or Lance Briggs not playing in 2011? The Bears will be at least as good defensively in 2011 as they were in 2010. The biggest concern will be replacing Daniel Manning at the S position, but that is why they drafted Major Wright last year.


Now, I certainly think if Stafford stays healthy the Lions can take another step forward. They might even overtake the Bears for 2nd in the division if their offense significantly improves. But to say they'll have the best defense? Ridiculous.