From Gunslingers to Goff: A Hilarious History of Detroit Lions Quarterbacks
The Detroit Lions. A team known for its passionate fans, ferocious defense... and a revolving door at the quarterback position. Buckle up, because this is a wild ride through the gridiron history of some of the most interesting (and sometimes frustrating) signal-callers to wear the Honolulu Blue and Silver.
What Quarterbacks Played For Detroit Lions |
The Golden Gunslinger: Bobby Layne
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
This fella wasn't afraid to sling the pigskin! Layne, a surefire Hall of Famer, led the Lions to a pair of NFL championships in the 1950s. He was a charismatic leader with a cannon for an arm and a fondness for post-game shenanigans (let's just say his nickname "The Spoiler" wasn't just about his on-field heroics). Fun fact: Layne once accidentally kicked a game-winning field goal while celebrating a touchdown. Talk about a lucky break!
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
The Stats Machine: Matthew Stafford
Stafford rewrote the Lions' record books, putting up eye-watering passing numbers. He could launch bombs like a human trebuchet, but unfortunately, those gaudy stats rarely translated to team success. Still, Lions fans will forever remember Stafford's heart, his leadership, and his unwavering dedication to a team that often let him down (seriously, the offensive line situation was ROUGH at times).
Tip: Don’t just scroll — pause and absorb.
The Rest: A Mixed Bag of Mayhem
Tip: Keep scrolling — each part adds context.
We'd be remiss not to mention some of the other colorful characters who donned the Lions' helmet at quarterback. There was Scott Mitchell, the gunslinger with a penchant for interceptions ( lovingly nicknamed "Pick Six Mitchell" by some fans). There was Gary Danielson, whose smooth voice now graces our televisions as a commentator, but whose on-field success was... less smooth. Let's not forget Kerry Collins, who once threw for over 5,000 yards in a season... but only managed to win three games. Lions fans, you know the drill.
The Present (and Maybe the Future?): Jared Goff
Traded to Detroit in 2021, Goff has brought stability and a new energy to the quarterback position. While some fans yearn for the Stafford days, Goff has proven to be a capable leader with a knack for clutch throws. Here's to hoping he can finally bring some Lombardi Trophy glory to the Motor City!
How-To FAQ for Lions Fans:
- How to avoid throwing things at your TV during a Lions game? Deep breaths, meditation, a healthy dose of pessimism (it can be a coping mechanism!).
- How to explain to your friends why you still root for the Lions? Because loyalty, that's why! And because someday, maybe, just maybe, they'll win a Super Bowl.
- How to identify a Lions fan in the wild? Look for the bags under their eyes (from late-night games and heartbreak), the Honolulu Blue apparel (worn with pride, even in dark times), and a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, this year will be different.