New-look Lions could set passing marks in 2007

Filed in archive on August 10, 2007

Courtesy ESPN.com

Roy Williams (pictured here) was clearly the Detroit Lions' star receiver in 2006. So far, in 2007, Williams is just one of a huge stable of wideouts, who can contribute to an aerial attack that could set records this season.

The new-look Lions played three quarterbacks in their preseason opener last night, and they hoisted up 47 passes, completing 30.

Williams and Mike Furrey, Detroit's top two pass catchers a year ago, caught just two passes in limited time. Eleven other receivers, including second-overall 2007 draft pick Calvin Johnson, got in on this dynamic assault, which ended in 489 receiving yards for a 10.4 yards-per-attempt average and 3 touchdowns, in a 27-26 win over Cincinnati.

With new offensive coordinator, Mike Martz, running a unit with many gifted athletes and uncanny depth at receiver, Detroit might just average 35 passes per game.

If starting quarterback, Jon Kitna, remains healthy and has a year similar to 2006, and if Johnson fits in with Williams and Furrey, the Lions could be poised for a record season and one of the biggest turnarounds in many years.