In this episode of the Detroit Lions Podcast, Chris is joined by Jeff “The Riz” Risdon as Case is out for the week. No worries, Case will be back, he just had some birthday celebrating to do. Great show this week as Chris and The Riz break down their time at training camp, spend some time with UDFA BJ Mitchell discussing the road to the NFL, and walk through the massive upgrades at Ford Field and the Lions Training Facility brought forth by our new hero, Rod Wood.

First on the list is to acknowledge the awesome time we had at the First Annual Detroit Lions Podcast Training Camp Bar Takeover Party… We had an amazing event at the Drafting Table Brewing Company in Wixom Michigan in which a number of listeners joined us for a great time – thank you to John, JustAFleshWound, and Mathis in particular! Detroit Lions Radio Network great, Dan Miller joined us and told a number of great stories about his history and shared some great insider info. Also joining us were Brett Whitefield from Pro Football Focus, Erik Schlitt from Lionswire, and a couple of guys (Alex and Ryan) from the Pride of Detroit crew (don’t worry, we won’t leave you guessing, we’re not afraid). Additionally, a number of our Detroit Lions Podcast staff were there throughout the weekend sharing great times and a number of laughs. Thanks to all who joined us!

Don’t forget that the Detroit Lions Podcast Fantasy Football League is back! Not only is it back, its going to be better than ever. Be sure to hit the website to join the league and get in-depth information about the rules.

This week in Reddit is dedicated to a breakdown of training camp. Chris and The Riz spent a good bit of time analyzing what they saw, strengths, weaknesses and grading the Lions talent. We were quite impressed by a number of players and a few left a little to be desired. Either way, it looks like the Lions have upgraded and have quite the competitive team this year.

We also take some time talking about the journey that so many people don’t see. The journey of a UDFA, and how they find their way into the NFL. Some men have a longer journey, even as National Champions who helped to carry their Division III team to victory. BJ Mitchell talks about his journey, his tryout with the Lions, what his future might hold, and what it’s like to be on the outside looking in (but only for today!). This is a great interview with a man whom you will want to cheer his way to success with an NFL team.

Lastly, we take a look at the amazing work that Rod Wood has put forth into upgrading Ford Field this year. We talk about the fruits that his $100 million upgrade have begun to bear and talk about the positive impact he has made on the organization.

Let us know what you think about the show by commenting in the podcast thread in the subreddit, or by leaving us a voice mail message via Skype at: DetroitLionsPodcast Your input will help make the show better, and if you leave us a message on Skype, you just might be featured in an upcoming Detroit Lions Podcast! You can also give us a call at (929) 33-Lions.