Today’s the Detroit Lions are enjoying one of their best seasons in recent years. Thanks to their surprising 6-2 record, Lions fans have been over active in social media posts, at premier NFL betting sites throughout the Wolverine State, and media venues to root their Lions to victory and to break the playoff drought. Throughout the Lions illustrious history dating back to 1930, they’ve produced Hall of Famers like the immortal Barry Sanders and Calvin Johnson, and continue to be part of American lore with the annual Thanksgiving football game.
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From Ohio to Michigan
The Lions originated as the Portsmouth Spartans in Ohio in 1929. Despite on-field success, financial difficulties plagued the Spartans, exacerbated by the economic challenges of the Great Depression. The team struggled with ticket sales and faced a significant deficit, putting their future in jeopardy. In 1934, the Spartans left Ohio and relocated and re-branded to their present-day Detroit Lions.
Division and Rivalries
The Lions are part of the National Football Conference’s North Division, competing against teams like the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers, and Chicago Bears.
Team Colors and Stadiums
The Lions’ distinctive colors have been Honolulu Blue and Silver since their move to Detroit. Over the years, they have played at various stadiums, including the University of Detroit Stadium, Tiger Stadium, the Pontiac Silverdome, and their current home, Ford Field, since 2002.
Thanksgiving Day Tradition
The Lions have a longstanding tradition of playing on Thanksgiving Day since 1934, a tradition influenced by the team’s first owner, George Richards, who also owned WJR radio station.
Championships
The Lions have won four NFL championships, securing victories in 1935 against the New York Giants and in 1952, 1953, and 1957 against the Cleveland Browns.
Notable Players
The Lions have had several iconic players in their history, including star quarterback Bobby Layne, who led the team to three of its championships. Earl “Dutch” Clark, the team’s first quarterback, guided them to the National Championship in 1935. Doak Walker made significant contributions as a running back and kicker from 1950-1955, while Barry Sanders set numerous rushing records during his tenure from 1989 to 1998. Calvin Johnson, also known as Megatron, set a record for receiving yards in a single season during his professional career from 2007 to 2015.
The Future of the Lions
Despite their historical successes, the Lions have faced challenges in recent years, with limited playoff victories since their last championship in 1957. Nevertheless, their legacy and impact on the NFL remain significant. But there is one piece of history that Lions fans want to see happen – the team’s first Super Bowl victory.
Rene Bennett is a graduate of New Jersey, where he played volleyball and annoyed a lot of professors. Now as Zobuz’s Editor, he enjoys writing about delicious BBQ, outrageous style trends and all things Buzz worthy.
