Aug. 13, 2008

Head coach Rod Marinelli’s postgame assessment of the Lions’ rushing effort in the exhibition opener spoke volumes. When asked what was the problem, Marinelli responded, “Didn’t get enough yards.” That was true. But it has been clear to observers of camp that the newfound emphasis on running the football is a commitment, not just an attempt. Offensive coordinator Jim Colletto reminded his players that running the football is not easy but that the team would not back down from doing it this season, even if the early returns are not pretty. Up front, the Lions are trying to establish more of a defensive mentality on the line, attacking as opposed to letting blocks come to them. It has been a slow process. And although it has held back the production of the running backs thus far, the team has made an interesting statement — despite Marinelli imploring the media not to read too much into it — by having rookie Kevin Smith lining up with the first team and veteran Tatum Bell with the second. Marinelli rarely puts rookies atop the depth chart this early, but sources in Detroit say the team believes it has something special in Smith and that it’s only a matter of time before he works well in this system.