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Detroit Lions

New offensive scheme expected to jumpstart QB Batch

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2001 schedule Head coach: Marty Mornhinweg (first season) Stadium: Pontiac Silverdome Lions all-time record: 464-482-32 2000 rankings: Offense, 27th; Defense, 14th 2000 team statistics 2000 season results Lions alerts from CNNSI.com! City Page: Detroit, Mich.

Detroit opens its training camp at Saginaw State in Saginaw, Mich., on July 23.

By B. Duane Cross, CNNSI.com

Marty Mornhinweg is another West Coast-offense disciple plying his trade as a head coach. The short-route passing game may benefit QB Charlie Batch, who was sacked 41 times last season. Running back James Stewart, looking for his third 10-plus TD season in a row, is a viable receiving option.

The Lions can make the playoffs if … the Batch-led offense can pick up the pace. Detroit's 27th-ranked offensive unit leaves a lot to be desired, but the potential is there. Wide receiver Germane Crowell missed seven games last season, so his return to full speed should provide dividends in the new scheme.

Pivotal games: The Lions play only six games against 2000-season playoff teams, but they play seven of eight road contests on natural grass. During a six-week stretch Nov. 11-Dec. 9, Detroit faces Tampa Bay twice and plays host to Green Bay.

On the hot seat: Batch. Period. No question about it. Of the 16 quarterbacks who threw at least 400 passes last season, Batch had the lowest QB rating (67.3). With the implementation of the West Coast offense, he'll throw the ball even more. The offense's success -- or lack thereof -- rests squarely on his shoulders.

Up-and-coming: Injuries limited running back Sedrick Irvin to six games last season. However, the new offensive philosophy requires a dynamic back that can excel in crucial third-down situations. Enter Irvin, who showed flashes of potential in 1999 with four TDs in only 36 rushes. Also keep an eye on second-year WR Larry Foster, who had the Lions' only 100-yard receiving game last season.

Sports Illustrated's season preview will post Aug. 29.