Football,f1 motorsports,NBA,Premier League

The Detroit Lions are fresh off a last-second, comeback victory against the Atlanta Falcons, which gives them a record of 6-2 and a one game lead at the top of their division. So why would I be saying that they don't belong there? An argument I look to tackle in the next few paragraphs.

Lets start with the game against the Falcons I just mentioned. On paper it looks good, the Lions came back from 21-0 down at halftime with a 48-yard game winning field goal from Matt Prater to secure the 22-21 win at Wembley stadium. However if you watched the game, I was lucky enough to be at Wembley, you could easily see that this was a performance that left a lot to be desired.

Firstly the absence of Reggie Bush for the Detroit run game means that the Lions are 31st in the league in yards per game, only the Oakland Raiders are worse at running the ball. Which means right now the Lions are one of the most one-dimentional offences in the league, relying on the arm of Matthew Stafford and their ninth ranked passing game.

Which is an issue, highlighted in the Falcons game. Stafford made several, actually, a lot of terrible throws. Not even on difficult passes, check down routes, screens, there were balls thrown at receivers' feet, throws miles overhead and some just completely off target. Don't get me wrong, Stafford has one of the best arms in the league, his decision making on the other hand is questionable. Also without Calvin Johnson on the field Stafford refused to make any deep throws, his strength. The only one I can remember seeing was the touchdown to Golden Tate, apart from that it was a lot of small gains here and there.

The next thing that concerns me is the amount of injuries the Lions have going down the stretch. They have coped pretty well so far, but losing all three of your tight ends has got to catch up with you soon right? Calvin Johnson's health will also be telling of how far Detroit go into the post-season. He is without doubt the best receiver in the league and without him, all due respect to Tate, the Lions' passing game is incredibly average.

The schedule isn't the easiest either, so far the Lions have handled business in the divisional clashes, but with two games against the Bears and Packers remaining with a depleted squad, it will be hard to keep that momentum going. Not to mention games at both Arizona and New England.

I would love the Lions to prove me wrong, I've got a lot of respect for them, Calvin Johnson is one of my favourite players in the league and their defensive line is one of the most disgustingly good around. But in my opinion Detroit will struggle from here, the injuries and schedule will slow them down. I still think they will get nine or ten wins, but a playoff run? I think they just aren't complete enough of a team to contend with the NFC heavyweights. 

The Detroit Lions are fresh off a last-second, comeback victory against the Atlanta Falcons, which gives them a record of 6-2 and a one game lead at the top of their division. So why would I be saying that they don't belong there? An argument I look to tackle in the next few paragraphs.

Lets start with the game against the Falcons I just mentioned. On paper it looks good, the Lions came back from 21-0 down at halftime with a 48-yard game winning field goal from Matt Prater to secure the 22-21 win at Wembley stadium. However if you watched the game, I was lucky enough to be at Wembley, you could easily see that this was a performance that left a lot to be desired.

Firstly the absence of Reggie Bush for the Detroit run game means that the Lions are 31st in the league in yards per game, only the Oakland Raiders are worse at running the ball. Which means right now the Lions are one of the most one-dimentional offences in the league, relying on the arm of Matthew Stafford and their ninth ranked passing game.

Which is an issue, highlighted in the Falcons game. Stafford made several, actually, a lot of terrible throws. Not even on difficult passes, check down routes, screens, there were balls thrown at receivers' feet, throws miles overhead and some just completely off target. Don't get me wrong, Stafford has one of the best arms in the league, his decision making on the other hand is questionable. Also without Calvin Johnson on the field Stafford refused to make any deep throws, his strength. The only one I can remember seeing was the touchdown to Golden Tate, apart from that it was a lot of small gains here and there.

The next thing that concerns me is the amount of injuries the Lions have going down the stretch. They have coped pretty well so far, but losing all three of your tight ends has got to catch up with you soon right? Calvin Johnson's health will also be telling of how far Detroit go into the post-season. He is without doubt the best receiver in the league and without him, all due respect to Tate, the Lions' passing game is incredibly average.

The schedule isn't the easiest either, so far the Lions have handled business in the divisional clashes, but with two games against the Bears and Packers remaining with a depleted squad, it will be hard to keep that momentum going. Not to mention games at both Arizona and New England.

I would love the Lions to prove me wrong, I've got a lot of respect for them, Calvin Johnson is one of my favourite players in the league and their defensive line is one of the most disgustingly good around. But in my opinion Detroit will struggle from here, the injuries and schedule will slow them down. I still think they will get nine or ten wins, but a playoff run? I think they just aren't complete enough of a team to contend with the NFC heavyweights. 

There are so many reasons why this is such an important week and game for the Atlanta Falcons. Playing the game against the Detroit Lions across the pond at Wembley Stadium, the team desperately needs a win to erase a three game losing streak and give Atlanta some hope of a possible run at the playoffs.

The Lions have been streaking, proving they are not a one-dimensional team, and look to continue to show the NFL the offense may be solid, but the defense has set the tone for this team.

Both teams have the potential to throw the ball all over the field, which should delight the crowd of 80,000 Sunday morning.

Here is a look the Falcons and how they matchup against Detroit, according to the team’s website.

Top Matchup: Falcons Secondary vs. Lions Wide Receivers

One week after logging two interceptions against the Baltimore Ravens, cornerback Robert Alford and his teammates in the Falcons secondary will have their hands full with a Lions receiving corps, regardless if wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) is cleared to play. With or without Johnson, fellow Lions wide receiver Golden Tate has proved why the team signed him as a free agent in the offseason, logging 48 receptions for 649 yards and two touchdowns in 2014.

Under the Radar Player: Falcons C James Stone

The Falcons rookie was thrust into the spotlight last week against the Ravens, when center Peter Konz suffered a knee injury and did not return to the game. One week later, Stone will have his hands on every offensive snap. Falcons head coach Mike Smith described Stone as an intelligent player, who has an impressive ability to identify fronts and change protections. The former Tennessee star will be heavily tested by a Lions front line that includes defensive tackles Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley.

On the Radar Player: Falcons WR Julio Jones

Many across the league believe Calvin Johnson is the best wide receiver in the league and with very good reason. Jones, however, is also an all-world talent and is looking to step up his game in Week 8 to help his team land its third win of the season, remaining in the hunt, near the top of the NFC South. Currently leading the Falcons with 49 receptions and 676 yards, look for Jones to make the most of his opportunities in Sunday’s early-morning contest.

Number of the Game: 290.3

Sunday’s matchup is a clash of a high-octane Falcons offense, ranked sixth-best in the NFL with 387.7 yards-per-game average, and a dominating Lions defense, ranked first in the league, allowing an average of 290.3 yards per game. If the Falcons offensive can provide quarterback Matt Ryan time to set his feet and throw, they’ll have a much better shot at matching that season average for yards, and hopefully some touchdowns to go with it, ideally leaving Wembley Stadium with a victory.

3 Keys to Victory 

1. Time is of the Essence: Ryan's wide receivers have said they're prepared for quick, short routes to help get the ball out of his hands early, with any extra time provided by the offensive line a big plus, leading to some downfield throws that could potentially light up the scoreboard.

2. Third-Down Defense: Atlanta's defense did a much better job last week, forcing the Chicago Bears into long second and third-down situations, before enabling first-down conversions; one week later, following another focused week of practice, look for Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan's crew to be better disciplined on third downs, helping to get the ball back to "Matty Ice" and company.

3. Exceeding Expectations: Each of the Falcons coaches and players has taken accountability for the current 2-5 record, admitting the team hasn't played up to its abilities and/or expectations; now is the time. Following a strong week of practice, the Falcons may get an extra boost from wide receiver Harry Douglas (foot), who is listed as a game-time decision for the Week 8 contest. Look for the team to come out on Sunday, playing in a way that shows it refuses to return home without win number three of the season.

There are so many reasons why this is such an important week and game for the Atlanta Falcons. Playing the game against the Detroit Lions across the pond at Wembley Stadium, the team desperately needs a win to erase a three game losing streak and give Atlanta some hope of a possible run at the playoffs.

The Lions have been streaking, proving they are not a one-dimensional team, and look to continue to show the NFL the offense may be solid, but the defense has set the tone for this team.

Both teams have the potential to throw the ball all over the field, which should delight the crowd of 80,000 Sunday morning.

Here is a look the Falcons and how they matchup against Detroit, according to the team’s website.

Top Matchup: Falcons Secondary vs. Lions Wide Receivers

One week after logging two interceptions against the Baltimore Ravens, cornerback Robert Alford and his teammates in the Falcons secondary will have their hands full with a Lions receiving corps, regardless if wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) is cleared to play. With or without Johnson, fellow Lions wide receiver Golden Tate has proved why the team signed him as a free agent in the offseason, logging 48 receptions for 649 yards and two touchdowns in 2014.

Under the Radar Player: Falcons C James Stone

The Falcons rookie was thrust into the spotlight last week against the Ravens, when center Peter Konz suffered a knee injury and did not return to the game. One week later, Stone will have his hands on every offensive snap. Falcons head coach Mike Smith described Stone as an intelligent player, who has an impressive ability to identify fronts and change protections. The former Tennessee star will be heavily tested by a Lions front line that includes defensive tackles Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley.

On the Radar Player: Falcons WR Julio Jones

Many across the league believe Calvin Johnson is the best wide receiver in the league and with very good reason. Jones, however, is also an all-world talent and is looking to step up his game in Week 8 to help his team land its third win of the season, remaining in the hunt, near the top of the NFC South. Currently leading the Falcons with 49 receptions and 676 yards, look for Jones to make the most of his opportunities in Sunday’s early-morning contest.

Number of the Game: 290.3

Sunday’s matchup is a clash of a high-octane Falcons offense, ranked sixth-best in the NFL with 387.7 yards-per-game average, and a dominating Lions defense, ranked first in the league, allowing an average of 290.3 yards per game. If the Falcons offensive can provide quarterback Matt Ryan time to set his feet and throw, they’ll have a much better shot at matching that season average for yards, and hopefully some touchdowns to go with it, ideally leaving Wembley Stadium with a victory.

3 Keys to Victory 

1. Time is of the Essence: Ryan's wide receivers have said they're prepared for quick, short routes to help get the ball out of his hands early, with any extra time provided by the offensive line a big plus, leading to some downfield throws that could potentially light up the scoreboard.

2. Third-Down Defense: Atlanta's defense did a much better job last week, forcing the Chicago Bears into long second and third-down situations, before enabling first-down conversions; one week later, following another focused week of practice, look for Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan's crew to be better disciplined on third downs, helping to get the ball back to "Matty Ice" and company.

3. Exceeding Expectations: Each of the Falcons coaches and players has taken accountability for the current 2-5 record, admitting the team hasn't played up to its abilities and/or expectations; now is the time. Following a strong week of practice, the Falcons may get an extra boost from wide receiver Harry Douglas (foot), who is listed as a game-time decision for the Week 8 contest. Look for the team to come out on Sunday, playing in a way that shows it refuses to return home without win number three of the season.

There are so many reasons why this is such an important week and game for the Atlanta Falcons. Playing the game against the Detroit Lions across the pond at Wembley Stadium, the team desperately needs a win to erase a three game losing streak and give Atlanta some hope of a possible run at the playoffs.

The Lions have been streaking, proving they are not a one-dimensional team, and look to continue to show the NFL the offense may be solid, but the defense has set the tone for this team.

Both teams have the potential to throw the ball all over the field, which should delight the crowd of 80,000 Sunday morning.

Here is a look the Falcons and how they matchup against Detroit, according to the team’s website.

Top Matchup: Falcons Secondary vs. Lions Wide Receivers

One week after logging two interceptions against the Baltimore Ravens, cornerback Robert Alford and his teammates in the Falcons secondary will have their hands full with a Lions receiving corps, regardless if wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) is cleared to play. With or without Johnson, fellow Lions wide receiver Golden Tate has proved why the team signed him as a free agent in the offseason, logging 48 receptions for 649 yards and two touchdowns in 2014.

Under the Radar Player: Falcons C James Stone

The Falcons rookie was thrust into the spotlight last week against the Ravens, when center Peter Konz suffered a knee injury and did not return to the game. One week later, Stone will have his hands on every offensive snap. Falcons head coach Mike Smith described Stone as an intelligent player, who has an impressive ability to identify fronts and change protections. The former Tennessee star will be heavily tested by a Lions front line that includes defensive tackles Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley.

On the Radar Player: Falcons WR Julio Jones

Many across the league believe Calvin Johnson is the best wide receiver in the league and with very good reason. Jones, however, is also an all-world talent and is looking to step up his game in Week 8 to help his team land its third win of the season, remaining in the hunt, near the top of the NFC South. Currently leading the Falcons with 49 receptions and 676 yards, look for Jones to make the most of his opportunities in Sunday’s early-morning contest.

Number of the Game: 290.3

Sunday’s matchup is a clash of a high-octane Falcons offense, ranked sixth-best in the NFL with 387.7 yards-per-game average, and a dominating Lions defense, ranked first in the league, allowing an average of 290.3 yards per game. If the Falcons offensive can provide quarterback Matt Ryan time to set his feet and throw, they’ll have a much better shot at matching that season average for yards, and hopefully some touchdowns to go with it, ideally leaving Wembley Stadium with a victory.

3 Keys to Victory 

1. Time is of the Essence: Ryan's wide receivers have said they're prepared for quick, short routes to help get the ball out of his hands early, with any extra time provided by the offensive line a big plus, leading to some downfield throws that could potentially light up the scoreboard.

2. Third-Down Defense: Atlanta's defense did a much better job last week, forcing the Chicago Bears into long second and third-down situations, before enabling first-down conversions; one week later, following another focused week of practice, look for Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan's crew to be better disciplined on third downs, helping to get the ball back to "Matty Ice" and company.

3. Exceeding Expectations: Each of the Falcons coaches and players has taken accountability for the current 2-5 record, admitting the team hasn't played up to its abilities and/or expectations; now is the time. Following a strong week of practice, the Falcons may get an extra boost from wide receiver Harry Douglas (foot), who is listed as a game-time decision for the Week 8 contest. Look for the team to come out on Sunday, playing in a way that shows it refuses to return home without win number three of the season.

The Atlanta Falcons not only have to keep an eye on the key offensive weapons of the Detroit Lions, it appears the offense will have to be fully aware of the play of DeAndre Levy from the linebacker position.

The unknown player is making a name for himself this season on a much improved defensive unit.

The Falcons have scouted him intensely leading up to Sunday's game at Wembley Stadium and know that he'll be worth keeping an eye on.

"He was a sub-4.6 guy coming out," said Mike Smith of Levy, who played his college ball at Wisconsin. "He's a guy that comes downhill and he's very quick. When you are having to put four hands on those defensive linemen and he's coming downhill, he's winning a lot of his battles because of his speed. If you come off too quickly, that's when the defensive tackles will make their plays.”

Smith said the Lions don't do a whole lot of blitzing because of the strength of their defensive line in creating their own pressure, so Levy will be pivotal to watch when it comes to the run game.

With the possibility of wide receiver Harry Douglas getting back into action Sunday, the extra target could help keep Levy honest when it comes to playing the run, but getting a helmet on him during run plays will be crucial to having success on the ground.

"He's definitely playing really lights-out football — having a great year," running back Steven Jackson said Thursday. "He's one of the guys that I've watched all week. His explosiveness and sideline-to-sideline speed, once he recognizes or sees the ball, he does a really good job of avoiding blocks, getting to it and also doing a good job of getting his D-linemen off the double team because he's so fast."

DOUGLAS BACK AT PRACTICE (PER ALANTAFALCONS.COM)

Head coach Mike Smith said before practice Thursday that wide receiver Harry Douglas would be a limited participant, something he hasn't been since Week 4.

It's been 10 practices since wide receiver Harry Douglas has been a participant at any level, but the streak will end Thursday as head coach Mike Smith announced before the day's session that Douglas would be limited.

Douglas injured his foot in a Week 3 win over Tampa Bay and was scheduled to do a rehab run Wednesday despite being a non-participant in practice.

Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux is expected to be a non-participant again Thursday, but Smith said he's hoping to get him some limited reps on Friday.

"We'll have to see how both those guys handle their workload over the next couple of days to see what their game status will be," Smith said Thursday.

The Atlanta Falcons not only have to keep an eye on the key offensive weapons of the Detroit Lions, it appears the offense will have to be fully aware of the play of DeAndre Levy from the linebacker position.

The unknown player is making a name for himself this season on a much improved defensive unit.

The Falcons have scouted him intensely leading up to Sunday's game at Wembley Stadium and know that he'll be worth keeping an eye on.

"He was a sub-4.6 guy coming out," said Mike Smith of Levy, who played his college ball at Wisconsin. "He's a guy that comes downhill and he's very quick. When you are having to put four hands on those defensive linemen and he's coming downhill, he's winning a lot of his battles because of his speed. If you come off too quickly, that's when the defensive tackles will make their plays.”

Smith said the Lions don't do a whole lot of blitzing because of the strength of their defensive line in creating their own pressure, so Levy will be pivotal to watch when it comes to the run game.

With the possibility of wide receiver Harry Douglas getting back into action Sunday, the extra target could help keep Levy honest when it comes to playing the run, but getting a helmet on him during run plays will be crucial to having success on the ground.

"He's definitely playing really lights-out football — having a great year," running back Steven Jackson said Thursday. "He's one of the guys that I've watched all week. His explosiveness and sideline-to-sideline speed, once he recognizes or sees the ball, he does a really good job of avoiding blocks, getting to it and also doing a good job of getting his D-linemen off the double team because he's so fast."

DOUGLAS BACK AT PRACTICE (PER ALANTAFALCONS.COM)

Head coach Mike Smith said before practice Thursday that wide receiver Harry Douglas would be a limited participant, something he hasn't been since Week 4.

It's been 10 practices since wide receiver Harry Douglas has been a participant at any level, but the streak will end Thursday as head coach Mike Smith announced before the day's session that Douglas would be limited.

Douglas injured his foot in a Week 3 win over Tampa Bay and was scheduled to do a rehab run Wednesday despite being a non-participant in practice.

Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux is expected to be a non-participant again Thursday, but Smith said he's hoping to get him some limited reps on Friday.

"We'll have to see how both those guys handle their workload over the next couple of days to see what their game status will be," Smith said Thursday.

The Atlanta Falcons not only have to keep an eye on the key offensive weapons of the Detroit Lions, it appears the offense will have to be fully aware of the play of DeAndre Levy from the linebacker position.

The unknown player is making a name for himself this season on a much improved defensive unit.

The Falcons have scouted him intensely leading up to Sunday's game at Wembley Stadium and know that he'll be worth keeping an eye on.

"He was a sub-4.6 guy coming out," said Mike Smith of Levy, who played his college ball at Wisconsin. "He's a guy that comes downhill and he's very quick. When you are having to put four hands on those defensive linemen and he's coming downhill, he's winning a lot of his battles because of his speed. If you come off too quickly, that's when the defensive tackles will make their plays.”

Smith said the Lions don't do a whole lot of blitzing because of the strength of their defensive line in creating their own pressure, so Levy will be pivotal to watch when it comes to the run game.

With the possibility of wide receiver Harry Douglas getting back into action Sunday, the extra target could help keep Levy honest when it comes to playing the run, but getting a helmet on him during run plays will be crucial to having success on the ground.

"He's definitely playing really lights-out football — having a great year," running back Steven Jackson said Thursday. "He's one of the guys that I've watched all week. His explosiveness and sideline-to-sideline speed, once he recognizes or sees the ball, he does a really good job of avoiding blocks, getting to it and also doing a good job of getting his D-linemen off the double team because he's so fast."

DOUGLAS BACK AT PRACTICE (PER ALANTAFALCONS.COM)

Head coach Mike Smith said before practice Thursday that wide receiver Harry Douglas would be a limited participant, something he hasn't been since Week 4.

It's been 10 practices since wide receiver Harry Douglas has been a participant at any level, but the streak will end Thursday as head coach Mike Smith announced before the day's session that Douglas would be limited.

Douglas injured his foot in a Week 3 win over Tampa Bay and was scheduled to do a rehab run Wednesday despite being a non-participant in practice.

Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux is expected to be a non-participant again Thursday, but Smith said he's hoping to get him some limited reps on Friday.

"We'll have to see how both those guys handle their workload over the next couple of days to see what their game status will be," Smith said Thursday.

The Atlanta Falcons not only have to keep an eye on the key offensive weapons of the Detroit Lions, it appears the offense will have to be fully aware of the play of DeAndre Levy from the linebacker position.

The unknown player is making a name for himself this season on a much improved defensive unit.

The Falcons have scouted him intensely leading up to Sunday's game at Wembley Stadium and know that he'll be worth keeping an eye on.

"He was a sub-4.6 guy coming out," said Mike Smith of Levy, who played his college ball at Wisconsin. "He's a guy that comes downhill and he's very quick. When you are having to put four hands on those defensive linemen and he's coming downhill, he's winning a lot of his battles because of his speed. If you come off too quickly, that's when the defensive tackles will make their plays.”

Smith said the Lions don't do a whole lot of blitzing because of the strength of their defensive line in creating their own pressure, so Levy will be pivotal to watch when it comes to the run game.

With the possibility of wide receiver Harry Douglas getting back into action Sunday, the extra target could help keep Levy honest when it comes to playing the run, but getting a helmet on him during run plays will be crucial to having success on the ground.

"He's definitely playing really lights-out football — having a great year," running back Steven Jackson said Thursday. "He's one of the guys that I've watched all week. His explosiveness and sideline-to-sideline speed, once he recognizes or sees the ball, he does a really good job of avoiding blocks, getting to it and also doing a good job of getting his D-linemen off the double team because he's so fast."

DOUGLAS BACK AT PRACTICE (PER ALANTAFALCONS.COM)

Head coach Mike Smith said before practice Thursday that wide receiver Harry Douglas would be a limited participant, something he hasn't been since Week 4.

It's been 10 practices since wide receiver Harry Douglas has been a participant at any level, but the streak will end Thursday as head coach Mike Smith announced before the day's session that Douglas would be limited.

Douglas injured his foot in a Week 3 win over Tampa Bay and was scheduled to do a rehab run Wednesday despite being a non-participant in practice.

Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux is expected to be a non-participant again Thursday, but Smith said he's hoping to get him some limited reps on Friday.

"We'll have to see how both those guys handle their workload over the next couple of days to see what their game status will be," Smith said Thursday.

Do you play Fantasy Football? If the answer is yes, this week is the most exciting opportunity in the history of the game. Win a MILLION DOLLARS playing Fantasy Football this week only! Go to www.FFChamps.com/million and get in on the action.

The Detroit Lions welcome the Buffalo Bills this Sunday to Ford Field for a 1pm kickoff. The Lions' record stands at 3-1 following Week 4's 24-17 win over the New York Jets. Buffalo looks to get back on track following 2 straight losses which brought them to 2-2 on the year. Vegas has Detroit as a 6 1/2 point favorite with an o/u of 44.

Two big injury concerns for the Lions heading into the game. RB Joique Bell has been ruled out due to a concussion, and WR Calvin Johnson is questionable due to an ankle injury but expected to play. Megatron was mainly used as a decoy last week, putting up a pedestrian 2/12/0 line.

Buffalo has been pretty strong against the run so far, holding opponents to 286 yards and 0 TDs. Their Pass D has been a mixed bag, allowing 1,065 yards and 6 TDs while forcing 5 INTs. Detroit has been pretty heavily weighted to the passing game, with a split of 148/113 in pass to rush attempts. QB Matthew Stafford currently sits at 4th in the league with 1,176 yards, but his 5 TDs on the year have to be considered a disappointment. The run game has not produced much for the Lions with 349 yards, however they do have 4 TDs on the ground.

This Sunday brings the chance to win ONE MILLION DOLLARS - www.FFChamps.com/million. Players with more opportunities - i.e. targets and touches - provide better upside, which is what we are looking for to put us in the best position to make some cash. The Lions' injury woes present 3 such candidates, listed below with salary for the week.

• RB Reggie Bush, $6,200. Bush and Bell have been pretty even so far in production, with Bell seeing more opportunites on the ground while Bush receives more targets through the air. Bell being out opens up even more opportunity for Bush, a heavy workload is a given it's just a matter of production at this point.
• WR Golden Tate, $4,900. With Johnson banged up, Tate put up his biggest line of the year last week - 8/116/0. His 11 targets were also a season high, look for that trend to continue Sunday.
• TE Eric Ebron, $3,000. At a bargain basement price, Ebron could see some red zone targets this week. He found the end zone for the 1st time last week, could be the confidence boost he needs to start making some noise.

As always, monitor the injury reports for news on Johnson. Get your lineups set - www.FFChamps.com/million - this week is going to be epic.

Do you play Fantasy Football? If the answer is yes, this week is the most exciting opportunity in the history of the game. Win a MILLION DOLLARS playing Fantasy Football this week only! Go to www.FFChamps.com/million and get in on the action.

The Detroit Lions welcome the Buffalo Bills this Sunday to Ford Field for a 1pm kickoff. The Lions' record stands at 3-1 following Week 4's 24-17 win over the New York Jets. Buffalo looks to get back on track following 2 straight losses which brought them to 2-2 on the year. Vegas has Detroit as a 6 1/2 point favorite with an o/u of 44.

Two big injury concerns for the Lions heading into the game. RB Joique Bell has been ruled out due to a concussion, and WR Calvin Johnson is questionable due to an ankle injury but expected to play. Megatron was mainly used as a decoy last week, putting up a pedestrian 2/12/0 line.

Buffalo has been pretty strong against the run so far, holding opponents to 286 yards and 0 TDs. Their Pass D has been a mixed bag, allowing 1,065 yards and 6 TDs while forcing 5 INTs. Detroit has been pretty heavily weighted to the passing game, with a split of 148/113 in pass to rush attempts. QB Matthew Stafford currently sits at 4th in the league with 1,176 yards, but his 5 TDs on the year have to be considered a disappointment. The run game has not produced much for the Lions with 349 yards, however they do have 4 TDs on the ground.

This Sunday brings the chance to win ONE MILLION DOLLARS - www.FFChamps.com/million. Players with more opportunities - i.e. targets and touches - provide better upside, which is what we are looking for to put us in the best position to make some cash. The Lions' injury woes present 3 such candidates, listed below with salary for the week.

• RB Reggie Bush, $6,200. Bush and Bell have been pretty even so far in production, with Bell seeing more opportunites on the ground while Bush receives more targets through the air. Bell being out opens up even more opportunity for Bush, a heavy workload is a given it's just a matter of production at this point.
• WR Golden Tate, $4,900. With Johnson banged up, Tate put up his biggest line of the year last week - 8/116/0. His 11 targets were also a season high, look for that trend to continue Sunday.
• TE Eric Ebron, $3,000. At a bargain basement price, Ebron could see some red zone targets this week. He found the end zone for the 1st time last week, could be the confidence boost he needs to start making some noise.

As always, monitor the injury reports for news on Johnson. Get your lineups set - www.FFChamps.com/million - this week is going to be epic.

The New York Jets were looking to bounce back from a Monday Night fiasco.  The Detroit Lions were looking to East Rutherford to continue their winning ways. 

3. The Detroit Lions are not completely Calvin Johnson dependent

Easy, not saying the Lions don't need Johnson, that's crazy.  I'm just saying we learned against a sub-par secondary, quarterback Matthew Stafford learned he has other weapons.  Johnson was on the receiving end of just two receptions for 12 yards.  And yet, quarterback Stafford ended the game with 293 yards and two passing touchdowns. 

We learned what we already knew, the Jets' secondary is sub-par.

2. Chris Ivory is working it

The Lions' entered the game with the number two rushing defense.  Ivory didn't blink.  Ivory finished the game with 17 rushes for 84 yards.  He averaged 4.9 yards a carry.  It is illuminating that Ivory collected 51 of his yards on the Jets first possession of the game.  On that drive he carried the ball nine times.

We learned that Ivory is quietly putting together a solid season.  Now if he could only get some offensive help.

1. The Jets front line is that good

The Jets' front line is really good.  Unfortunately, it is getting lost in the rest of the team being really bad.  But against the prolific offense of the Lions, the front seven did their job.  That included holding the Lions' running backs to under 100 yards collectively.  It also included sacking quarterback Stafford four times.

We learned it is going to take more than a mighty defensive line to win a game.  They are going to need some help, just a little from somewhere.

Follow me on Twitter @neverenoughglt

The New York Jets were looking to bounce back from a Monday Night fiasco.  The Detroit Lions were looking to East Rutherford to continue their winning ways. 

3. The Detroit Lions are not completely Calvin Johnson dependent

Easy, not saying the Lions don't need Johnson, that's crazy.  I'm just saying we learned against a sub-par secondary, quarterback Matthew Stafford learned he has other weapons.  Johnson was on the receiving end of just two receptions for 12 yards.  And yet, quarterback Stafford ended the game with 293 yards and two passing touchdowns. 

We learned what we already knew, the Jets' secondary is sub-par.

2. Chris Ivory is working it

The Lions' entered the game with the number two rushing defense.  Ivory didn't blink.  Ivory finished the game with 17 rushes for 84 yards.  He averaged 4.9 yards a carry.  It is illuminating that Ivory collected 51 of his yards on the Jets first possession of the game.  On that drive he carried the ball nine times.

We learned that Ivory is quietly putting together a solid season.  Now if he could only get some offensive help.

1. The Jets front line is that good

The Jets' front line is really good.  Unfortunately, it is getting lost in the rest of the team being really bad.  But against the prolific offense of the Lions, the front seven did their job.  That included holding the Lions' running backs to under 100 yards collectively.  It also included sacking quarterback Stafford four times.

We learned it is going to take more than a mighty defensive line to win a game.  They are going to need some help, just a little from somewhere.

Follow me on Twitter @neverenoughglt

At some point, the Jacksonville Jaguars coaching staff may have to change its tune when it comes to Blake Bortles. The rookie quarterback went out again and showed that he could play in an offense with the first team and show success. The 13-12 loss in Detroit wasn’t a true indication of what happened on Friday night. What Bortles did on the field was – a bold statement that he is the best rookie quarterback in the class, and the fact he has gotten better in each of the three preseason games.

Many of the fans think Bortles should start week one against Philadelphia, and although head coach Gus Bradley continually says Chad Henne is the starter, both quarterbacks are on two different paths. While Henne is a game manager and does a good job of leading an offense, Bortles is the future and is “Mr. Excitement” from the moment he runs onto the field. Maybe the future of this organization shouldn’t wait until 2015, in fact maybe the team should take a chance and make No. 5 and the future of this franchise happen now.

Bortles threw for 158 yards and a touchdown for the Jaguars. Jacksonville started Chad Henne, but Bortles -- the third pick in this year's draft -- was impressive in relief. He completed 10 of 16 passes, including a 13-yard touchdown to Allen Hurns.

Henne went 9 of 14 for 70 yards and avoided any major mistakes. But Bortles, the first quarterback taken in this year's draft, was able to move the Jaguars down the field. Jacksonville started at its own 5 with 1:43 remaining in the first half, and Bortles was able to guide the Jaguars into position for Redfern's kick as time expired.

In the third quarter, Bortles took the Jaguars from their own 14 to the Detroit 27 before Redfern's kick was blocked by Xavier Proctor. On its next drive, Jacksonville went 49 yards in four plays for its only touchdown.

Hurns had seven catches for 113 yards.

Here are a few things we learned from Friday night’s game.

DEFENSIVE LINE WOES

This is a unit that was supposed to be better this season, but it was exploited by the Detroit running game. Reggie Bush broke free for an 86-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. The team had 178 yards rushing on the night.

BETTER PASSING

All three of the Jaguars passers (including Ricky Stanzi) threw for 275 yards on the night. Stanzi looked mobile in mop up duty, but he also threw the team’s only two interceptions on the night. Last week, Henne threw the team’s only touchdown. This week, it was Bortles.

AN OFFENSIVE LINE

The Detroit defensive line manhandled the Jaguars offensive line in the first half. There were many times when the Lions read the snap count and there was a defender in the backfield. Center and left tackle are still areas of concern for this team.

After being challenged at the beginning of the offseason to not only be a better pas catcher this season for the Jacksonville Jaguars but a leader for the younger players in the receiving corps, Cecil Shorts has not had the type of training camp befitting those kinds of expectations. Injuries have prevented him from being on the playing field and working on his timing and his consistency with both Chad Henne and Blake Bortles.

The Jaguars are now hoping, in the team’s third preseason game against Detroit, Shorts gets more time on the field and shows more leadership on the sideline and in the locker-room. The only problem is Calvin Johnson may finally make an appearance on the field in Detroit, which to the natives is a heck of a lot more interesting. Still, it will be Shorts first time in the preseason for more than a series or two, so the Jaguars faithful are hoping for success on their end, regardless of who is playing on the other side.

For a team sorely lacking in experienced receivers, the sight of Shorts participating in practice this week is indeed welcome.

Jaguars coach Gus Bradley said he anticipates Sh
orts will get "15 plays or so" with the first-team offense against the Lions. Both Chad Henne and rookie Blake Bortles will work at least a quarter each with the anticipated regular-season starters, although their respective stints at quarterback could depend on the length of their drives.

After getting a total of only 17 snaps in the opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Henne ran 26 plays in the first quarter alone last week at Chicago as the offense produced two field goals and a touchdown. Shorts didn't make the trip but was delighted with what he saw on television back home.

"We're moving the ball," he said. "We're pushing it. We're making plays outside the receivers and running the ball better. Chad and Blake are on point with their throws, on point with their reads. And the offensive line is doing a great job. Now, we've got a lot of work to do to get to where we're trying to get. But it's definitely a great start."

JAGUARS WORTH $965 MILLION (FROM ESPN.COM)

The Jacksonville Jaguars may have won only six games over the past two seasons, but they’re worth nearly $200 million more than the $770 million Shad Khan plunked down to purchase the franchise back in November 2011.

According to the Forbes NFL Team Value list that was released Wednesday, the Jaguars are worth $965 million. While that’s an increase of $195 million -- no doubt helped by the stadium renovations and stadium naming rights contract extension with EverBank -- that still ranks 29th among NFL teams.

Still, a 25 percent increase in value in less than three years is a pretty significant jump.

The Dallas Cowboys top the list at $3.2 billion. The three teams worth less than the Jaguars are Detroit ($960 million), Buffalo ($935 million), and St. Louis ($930 million).

The Jaguars are the only team in the AFC South valued at less than $1 billion. Houston ranks fifth at $1.85 billion, Indianapolis is 12th at $1.4 billion, and Tennessee is 19th at $1.16 billion.