The Lions led the NFL with 28.5 points per game in the preseason, using a limited playbook. "It was around 25 percent to 30 percent of what we've got," receiver Nate Burleson said. "We definitely have a lot more in store." Detroit gave a glimpse of its explosive potential by finishing third in the exhibition season with 15 pass plays of more than 20 yards. Quarterback Matthew Stafford staying healthy is still key to the team's success.
• • •
The Packers gave up 477 yards of offense -- including 419 passing to Drew Brees -- in Thursday's victory over the Saints. Said linebacker Clay Matthews: "They're a fantastic offense, Drew's a fantastic quarterback, their offensive play-calling, but there's no excuse. If we want to be a top five defense, we have to be able to shut down powerful teams like that."
• • •
The Bears begin the season with only five linebackers. Lance Briggs, Brian Urlacher and Nick Roach are the starters. Brian Iwuh, who has four starts in five NFL seasons, and undrafted rookie free agent Dom DeCicco -- a converted safety -- are the reserves. That's thin for a team that has traditionally been loaded at the position under coach Lovie Smith.
