Choosing your NFL/EFLI team - Optimists

Detroit Lions

Colours: Royal blue and silver

Mascot: Roary

Stadium: Ford Field

Home City: Detroit, Michigan

Super Bowl wins: 0 (0 appearances)

Records over last 5 years: 29 wins, 51 losses, 1 playoff appearance

Best Players: Calvin Johnson, Ndamukong Suh, Matthew Stafford

Bio: Since 2001, the Lions have just one season with a winning record and a playoff berth. They are also one of two original NFL teams without a Super Bowl appearance. That isn’t very encouraging for a prospective fan.

However, whilst the Lions are not a symbol of success in the NFL, they are a symbol of controversy and excitement. The team has been known for its bad-boy image over the years, starting with defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh.

The team is also known for its fantastic roster of individual talents. Calvin Johnson is the greatest receiver of his generation, and uses his 6 feet 5 inch frame to catch balls over and through defenders in awe-inspiring fashion. Reggie Bush is a running back with a rare ability to change direction sharply in a single stride. Matt Stafford is a young, strong armed quarterback who is as erratic as he is entertaining.

You cannot expect championships aplenty as a Detroit Lions fan. You can, however, expect to be entertained.