For the Detroit Lions it all starts with quarterback Matthew Stafford who was just signed to five-year, $135 million contract. The Lions won a lot of close games last season and Stafford was one of the big reasons why. On defense the Lions need to have big seasons from defensive end Ziggy Ansah and defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson. Ansah had an injury plagued 2016 season and must bounce back for the Lions to challenge the Green Bay Packers for the NFC North title. Robinson has the potential to be an outstanding defensive tackle. If he can make a jump in his second season, then the entire Lions defense could move to another level.. . . Detroit Lions. 12. team. 50