The Roar of the Lions
A season of individual brilliance amid team struggles.
The 1990 Detroit Lions season was the franchise's 61st season in the National Football League (NFL), their 57th as the Detroit Lions, and their second under head coach Wayne Fontes. The team failed to improve upon their 7–9 record from the previous season, suffering their seventh consecutive losing season.
Quick Facts
- Primary venue history
- Briggs Stadium (later Tiger Stadium), Pontiac Silverdome, Ford Field
Lore & Background
Despite dropping in yardage from his rookie season, Barry Sanders led the league in rushing yards with 1,304, being named to the Pro Bowl and the All-Pro Team while the Lions offense ranked 5th, scoring 373 points in the season. The defense dropped from 19th to 26th, allowing 5,734 yards of offense. Punt returner Mel Gray was named to the Pro Bowl and was named to the All-Pro Team, averaging 22 yards a return.
Reader's Guide
For the second season in a row, the Lions selected the Heisman Trophy winner with their draft picks, taking quarterback Andre Ware seventh-overall. With their second round pick, the Lions selected defensive end Dan Owens who would record 20.0 sacks with the team between 1990 to 1995 and 1998 to 1999. The Lions looked at defense again with their third round pick, selecting defensive Marc Spindler who recorded 9.0 sacks with the Lions. Their fourth round selection Rob Hinckley didn't make the roster. Their other fourth round selection, cornerback Chris Oldham, recorded one interception in his lone season with the Lions. With their fifth round selection, the Lions looked offense again, selecting Jeff Campbell who would record 495 yards and three touchdowns with the Lions.
Did You Know?
- The Lions' 1990 preseason win over the Houston Oilers was their first preseason win since 1987.
- Barry Sanders led the NFL in rushing yards in 1990 with 1,304 yards.
- Punt returner Mel Gray averaged 22 yards per return in 1990 and was named to the Pro Bowl and All-Pro Team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'The Roar of the Lions' represent?
It embodies the enduring spirit and collective voice of Detroit's football faithful throughout nearly a century of professional play. This concept serves as the heartbeat of the franchise, binding generations of supporters together through triumphs and heartbreaks.
When did this tradition first appear in Lions history?
The legacy originated in 1930 during the Portsmouth Spartans era before transitioning to the Detroit Lions identity. It has echoed continuously from those early days into the present timeline of NFL history.
Which stadiums are associated with this cultural phenomenon?
The sound has historically filled venues ranging from the cramped confines of Briggs Stadium and Tiger Stadium to the Pontiac Silverdome. Currently, it finds its home within the modern expanse of Ford Field in downtown Detroit.
Is 'The Roar of the Lions' still active in the modern era?
Yes, this status is listed as an Active Legacy within the fan encyclopedia records. From frozen winds to indoor domes, the Detroit faithful continue to support their team without stopping.
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