For most of the week, faithful Lions followers have assumed their shiny new toy, number one overall pick Matthew Stafford, would make his first start in Detroit’s second preseason game. On Friday, Lions coach Jim Schwartz confirmed the news.
Just don’t call it a “start.”
Schwartz says Stafford will “begin” the game, just like he did with Daunte Culpepper last week. And Schwartz made some comments that indicated the competition may not end soon either.
Schwartz hinted that he’ll approach the fourth preseason game like he did in Tennessee, with starters playing longer than most teams. That could delay the quarterback decision.
Perhaps the head coach wants Stafford and Culpepper to get more time with some of their best receivers. Calvin Johnson (thumb) and rookie tight end Brandon Pettigrew (thigh) will both miss Saturday’s game against Cleveland.
