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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.

12/29/2013

Detroit Lions: Jim Schwartz's job security still a big question


Watching the Lions’ game today almost seems secondary with all the speculation on whether coach Jim Schwartz will be fired on Black Monday.

No doubt Schwartz is on the hot seat. In fact, he might be getting blistered.

But, other than the Fords, not sure anyone knows what will happen.  And it’s possible they have not made their decision.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported this morning that Lions’ ownership is “leaning toward keeping him.’’

Schefter later said on the pre-game show that Schwartz is "leaning safe."

Other speculation has the Lions making a clean sweep of the coaching staff and firing GM Martin Mayhew.

Mayhew has made a few draft mistakes (Jahvid Best, Titus Young), but I think he’s redeemed himself by building a talented roster with a solid draft this year along with signing two undrafted rookies — right tackle LaAdrian Waddle and tight end Joe Fauria. Both have played significant roles.

Schwartz got the team off to a 6-3 start. But they’ve won just one of their last six. 
In his five seasons, Schwartz is 11-28 in the second halves of the season and 29-50 overall prior to the season-ending Vikings’ game.

Schwartz was hired following the 0-16 season. He has brought them close to respectability. Close, but he’s not there.

In 2012 the Lions were 0-6 in the NFC North. With a win over the Vikings they could be 5-1. It doesn’t matter though.

Schwartz has about $12 million remaining on his contract that the Lions would have to pay him. This buyout could play a factor in the decision made by the Fords. Plus most of the staff would be gone too. That’s a lot of money and the Lions would still have to shell out for a new coach and staff.

My guess is that Mayhew will stay and Schwartz and his staff will be fired.

Just speculation.

(Follow @PaulaPasche on Twitter. Order her book,  “100 Things Lions Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die’’ here. It’s also available at bookstores.)



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