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One thing you can count on with the Detroit Lions is that they are never, ever boring. Follow the latest news including injuries, roster moves and more here daily from Oakland Press beat writer Paula Pasche. Plus you'll find regular commentary about the team.

9/11/2011

Lions win: Attitude has changed and results too

TAMPA — After a few hours to digest the Lions’ 27-20 win over the Bucs and a Big Mac Meal (life on the road is so glamorous), here are my thoughts:

— Maybe it’s too much to say the Lions have turned the corner after one win, but too bad. I’ll say it anyway. And it’s not just one win, it’s the four wins they ended last season on. I’m not picking them to go to the Super Bowl, but I think when they get in close games they have figured out a way to win. It won’t always happen, but it will more often than not. I’m officially declaring the Lions over the hump after the 0-16 and 2-14 seasons.

— The Lions had a few costly late penalties and eight penalties for 68 yards total. Too much and I suspect this will be part of Jim Schwartz’s message to the team on Monday. This is something that should be corrected easily and immediately.

— Calvin Johnson is having fun and it shows. Matthew Stafford has said it’s easy to connect with Calvin, he just has to throw in the general vicinity. But don’t let Stafford’s humility throw you, he threaded the needle on a few passes on Sunday.

— Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan called an impressive game especially taking the chance with the fourth-and-3 at the Bucs’ 36. He’s having some fun with all the weapons at his disposal and looks like he knows how to get the best out of them.

— While the Lions sacked Josh Freeman just twice (Stephen Tulloch, Kyle Vanden Bosch), they got in his face and caused problems all day. Think they’ll be itching to pick up a few more sacks next Sunday? Me too.

— The Lions open their home schedule at Ford Field on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs who were blown out 41-7 by the Bills at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday. Beware of a wounded animal. Still the Lions should feel confident heading into the match-up on Sunday.

— Liked the tone that Schwartz set after the win Sunday. He didn’t want to downplay the win, but he didn’t want anyone to think that’s the best the Lions have got.

— It will be easy for fans to get more excited about these Lions with the win on the road. I’d expect a full, rockin’ house at Ford Field on Sunday. Heck, there were plenty of Lions’ fans at Raymond James Stadium and the Lions could hear them. There weren’t that many Bucs fans and can’t imagine the loss will be good for ticket sales.

(Follow me on Twitter @PaulaPasche. Get Lions news delivered directly to your phone by texting the keyword "Lions" to 22700.)

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