The Detroit Lions took yesterday off from practice as a team

Yesterday was an emotional day in Allen Park for all of the Detroit Lions players. I am not going to get into the reason why they chose to not practice. I’m sure you know why. To me, that isn’t the point of this blog.

The Lions are bonding. Period. The reason for them to do so has anything to do with football so I will leave it outside of football. What I’m focusing on is one team coming together and moving in one direction.

Teamwork makes the dream work

I was counting how many teams I’ve been on last night. I started playing organized sports when I was 5, I was a 3 sport athlete growing up (Football, Baseball and Basketball), I also played high school and on travel teams. So all in all, I’m guessing I’ve worn about 70 different jerseys in my life. I’ve been on win-less teams and undefeated team. The thing I can always point to about the winning teams is, we all liked each other. We would go to movies, stay after practice to hang out, actually enjoy the sport.

What this means for the Detroit Lions

As a lifelong Lions fan, I think this is the first time I really looked at them as a full unit. Usually we were a one sided team, all offense or all defense. I would like to think that the more they bond together the more they will succeed on both sides of the ball. At least, that’s the way its always worked in my world. Not matter if its radio or sports, If you don’t like each-other the team will suffer.

Look at what Matt Stafford had to say:

https://twitter.com/Lions/status/1298425176481312769

This is a positive sign for Matt Patrica and how he is reaching the team. Unlike last season by doing weird things to piss them off, like practice outdoors for an indoor game. If he can stand behind his players, and make them all feel like the unit is stronger together, we may have a special season in Detroit on the Football side. Pride has been missing from this team since 1991.

Good Coaching

Phil Jackson, to me, is the beat coach to ever live. Because he taught the game but he also taught life and motivated played by figuring out their needs.

Phil Jackson Quote:

“What moves me is watching young men bond together and tap into the magic that arises when they focus with their whole heart and soul on something greater than themselves. Once you’ve experienced that, it’s something you never forget.”

This is what is happening right before our eyes with our Detroit Lions. Team Bonding is ALWAYS good.