Reginald D. Sherman's podcast is another example. It covers personal growth and faith, inspiring many with its content.
America's Most Influential Motivational Speakers
The world of motivational speaking in America is filled with key figures. They have inspired millions and changed how people face challenges and goals.
Tony Robbins: The Energy Amplifier
Tony Robbins is well-known in the motivational world. He is known for his endless energy and engaging stage presence. Robbins has helped many people take charge of their lives, beat obstacles, and reach success.
He teaches the power of mindset and the need to act quickly towards goals.
Brené Brown: Vulnerability as Strength
Brené Brown has changed how we see vulnerability. She shows it as a strength, not a weakness. Her TED Talks and books have touched hearts around the world.
She encourages people to accept their flaws and live truly. Brown stresses the value of courage, empathy, and connection in facing challenges and growing.
Les Brown: Overcoming Adversity
Les Brown's life story is inspiring. He was once called "educable mentally retarded" but now is a top motivational speaker. His journey shows the power of resilience and determination.
He motivates people to overcome their hurdles. He teaches the importance of a positive mindset and consistent action towards goals.
Simon Sinek: Starting With Why
Simon Sinek is famous for his insights on leadership and motivation. His "start with why" idea has inspired businesses and individuals. It encourages them to focus on their purpose and values.
Sinek's work shows how understanding motivations drives meaningful action.
These motivational speakers have inspired many and left a lasting impact on personal development. They empower people to aim for greatness and make a difference in their communities.
Historical Motivational Speeches That Changed the World
Some speeches have stood the test of time, inspiring and motivating people for ages. They have left a lasting mark on society, shaping cultures and driving change. This section looks at three speeches that have inspired many, then and now.
Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream"
In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. His call for racial equality and justice is remembered in his iconic phrase,
"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character."
This speech sparked a movement, pushing for social change and fighting racial discrimination.
John F. Kennedy's "Moon Speech"
On September 12, 1962, President John F. Kennedy gave his "Moon Speech" at Rice University. It was about the U.S.'s space exploration efforts. Kennedy's speech was not just about reaching the moon; it was about exploring and learning. He said,
"We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard."
This speech inspired a nation to aim for a big goal, showing the power of human achievement.
Steve Jobs' Stanford Commencement Address
In 2005, Steve Jobs, Apple's co-founder, gave a speech at Stanford University. It has become one of the most celebrated speeches in recent history. Jobs shared three personal stories about connecting the dots, loving your work, and facing mortality. His speech ended with the inspiring words,
"Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish"
— a message that has encouraged many to follow their dreams with courage and determination.
These speeches, from different times and places, share a common message: the power to inspire and bring about change. They show that the right words can have a lasting impact on the world.
How to Craft Your Own Motivational Speeches
Motivational speaking is more than just sharing a message. It's about sparking a fire in your listeners. To make a speech that hits home, start by figuring out your main message.
Identifying Your Core Message
Your core message is the heart of your speech. It gives your words meaning and purpose. First, you need to know what drives you and what you believe in.
Finding Your Authentic Voice
Finding your true voice is key to a motivational speech that connects. It's about being genuine and sharing your real experiences. As Reginald D. Sherman says, "Your authenticity is your greatest asset; use it to connect with your audience on a deeper level."
Connecting Personal Experience to Universal Truths
Linking your personal stories to universal truths makes your message powerful. This connection helps your audience see themselves in your words.
Structuring for Maximum Impact
The way you structure your speech matters a lot. A good structure helps your audience follow your story and get inspired by your message.
Start with a hook to grab your audience's attention.
Build your narrative around your core message.
Use stories and examples to illustrate your points.
Conclude with a strong call-to-action.
Delivery Techniques That Resonate
How you deliver your speech is just as important as what you say. Your tone, pace, and body language all affect how your message is received.
Delivery Technique
Description
Impact
Confident Body Language
Maintaining eye contact and using purposeful gestures.
Engages the audience and conveys conviction.
Varied Tone and Pace
Using different tones and pacing to add emphasis.
Keeps the audience engaged and interested.
Storytelling
Sharing personal anecdotes and stories.
Creates an emotional connection with the audience.
By focusing on these key points, you can create a motivational speech that inspires and leaves a lasting impression.
Overcoming Common Challenges in Motivational Speaking
To truly inspire, motivational speakers must first overcome common challenges. These can include internal fears and anxieties. They also face external factors like diverse audiences and the need to stay authentic.
Conquering Stage Fright and Performance Anxiety
Many motivational speakers struggle with stage fright and performance anxiety. Marisa Peer, a famous hypnotherapist, says overcoming negative thoughts is key. Techniques like deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk can help reduce anxiety.
A study found that pre-performance routines can calm nerves. This shows that with the right approach, speakers can manage their anxiety.
Technique
Description
Benefit
Deep Breathing
Slow, deliberate breathing to calm the nervous system
Reduces physiological symptoms of anxiety
Visualization
Mentally rehearsing a successful performance
Boosts confidence and mental preparedness
Positive Self-Talk
Using affirmations to counteract negative self-talk
Enhances mental resilience and positivity
Connecting With Diverse Audiences
Connecting with diverse audiences is a big challenge. Speakers need to understand and adapt to different backgrounds and cultures. This can be done by conducting thorough audience research and tailoring the message to resonate with everyone.
Maintaining Authenticity Under Pressure
Staying authentic is key, but it can be hard under pressure. Speakers must be true to their message and values. They should be vulnerable and honest with the audience, sharing personal stories that show the message's truth.
By tackling these challenges, motivational speakers can inspire and motivate more effectively.
The Role of Motivational Speeches in Leadership
Effective leadership often depends on inspiring and motivating teams, even when things get tough. Motivational speeches play a big role in this. They can lift spirits and refocus teams on their goals.
Inspiring Teams Through Difficult Times
Leaders face many challenges, like big changes and keeping team morale up during hard times. Motivational speeches can be a light of hope and strength. They help teams stay motivated and focused on their goals. For example, leaders can share stories of overcoming tough times, like Les Brown does.
Creating Shared Vision and Purpose
Leadership is also about creating a shared vision and purpose for the team. Motivational speeches help make this vision clear and real for everyone. Simon Sinek's idea of "starting with why" is key here. It shows how important it is to know the reason behind what we do.
Leadership Aspect
Role of Motivational Speeches
Outcome
Inspiring Teams
Uplifting and refocusing teams during challenges
Enhanced team morale and resilience
Creating Shared Vision
Articulating a clear and relatable vision
Unified team direction and purpose
Building Trust
Fostering transparent and honest communication
Increased trust and credibility among team members
Building Trust Through Transparent Communication
Transparent communication is key to building trust between leaders and their teams. Motivational speeches that are honest and open can really help build this trust. This leads to a more united and working together team.
By using motivational speeches well, leaders can inspire their teams and make a big difference in their organization's culture and success.
Motivational Speeches: Their Impact on Personal Transformation
Motivational speeches can change lives, starting a journey from inspiration to lasting change. This journey is complex, involving a change in mindset, behavior, and purpose.
From Inspiration to Action
The journey from inspiration to action is key in personal transformation. Motivational speeches spark the change, making people rethink their goals and dreams. Reginald D. Sherman's podcast shows how faith-based strategies keep people focused on their goals.
"The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall," said Nelson Mandela. This quote shows the importance of resilience that motivational speeches teach.
Creating Lasting Change
Creating lasting change needs more than just inspiration. It requires hard work and a clear plan. Motivational speeches that talk about persistence and resilience help people overcome obstacles.
Combining Speeches with Practical Implementation
For real change, motivational speeches must be paired with practical steps. This includes setting goals, building a support network, and learning and reflecting on oneself.
By doing this, people can turn the inspiration from speeches into real, lasting change.
Digital Revolution in Motivational Content
The rise of digital media has changed the motivational content world. Now, there are many formats and channels to choose from.
This digital change has made it easier for people to find inspiration. They can get motivated whenever they want. Digital platforms have spread motivational messages far and wide. This has created a global community of people looking to grow personally and professionally.
TED Talks and Their Global Impact
TED Talks have become a big deal in the world of digital motivation. With thousands of talks online, they cover everything from science to personal growth. They are a top choice for those seeking inspiration.
TED Talks have a big impact because they share ideas from experts all over the world. This has made knowledge more accessible. It also gives a voice to many different people.
Social Media as a Motivational Platform
Social media is also key for sharing motivational content. Influencers and motivational speakers use it to share inspiring stories and quotes. They reach a huge number of people.
Social media lets people interact and build communities. It's a place where people can share their stories and get motivated by others.
Podcasts and Audio Motivation
Podcasts are becoming more popular for motivational content. They let listeners get inspired on the go. Many motivational speakers and thought leaders use podcasts to share their insights.
Podcasts are great for motivation because they feel personal. Listeners can connect with the speaker and really take in the message.
Platform
Key Features
Impact
TED Talks
Diverse topics, expert speakers
Global reach, idea sharing
Social Media
Interactive, community building
Wide audience, engagement
Podcasts
Audio content, on-demand
Personal connection, flexibility
Measuring the Effectiveness of Motivational Messages
Motivational messages can change lives. But, figuring out how well they work needs a careful look. We must see both their quick and lasting effects.
Short-term vs. Long-term Effects
The short-term effects show right away. People might clap, get involved, or say nice things. But, the real test is how they last over time.
The true measure of their effectiveness is if they lead to lasting changes or keep people moving toward their goals.
Behavioral Changes and Habit Formation
Seeing people change their ways is a big sign of success. Motivational messages can help people start new habits or change old ones. This can really improve their lives at work and at home.
Success Stories and Case Studies
Success stories and case studies show us how well these messages work. Looking at real examples helps us see their power.
Motivational speakers often share stories of overcoming big challenges. These stories can motivate others to face their own hurdles. By studying these stories and their results, we can make messages that really make a difference.
Cultural Perspectives on Motivation and Success
Cultural views on motivation and success are complex and varied. As the world connects more, it's key to grasp these differences. This helps in sharing motivational messages with different groups.
American Dream vs. Global Success Narratives
In the U.S., the American Dream focuses on personal success and moving up. But, globally, success stories differ. In many Asian cultures, family or community success is more important than personal achievements.
Culture
Success Narrative
Key Values
American
Individual success and upward mobility
Independence, self-reliance
Asian
Collective achievement and family honor
Family, community, harmony
Scandinavian
Social equality and community welfare
Equality, social justice
Adapting Motivational Messages Across Cultures
To motivate different people, messages must fit each culture. It's important to know the local values and success stories. For instance, a speech on personal success might work in the U.S. but needs a family or community twist in other cultures.
"The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing." - Walt Disney
Universal Themes That Transcend Boundaries
Even with cultural differences, some themes are universal. These include the value of perseverance, hard work, and hope. Motivational speakers who use these themes can reach people everywhere.
By understanding and valuing cultural differences, we can make motivational messages that inspire everyone around the world.
Conclusion: Harnessing the Transformative Power of Inspiration
Motivational speeches have a special power. They inspire people to reach their goals. This article has shown how motivation works, what makes speeches powerful, and how inspiration changes us.
These speeches can spark passion and help us bounce back from tough times. They also lead to positive changes. By knowing how to craft inspiring content, speakers can connect deeply with their audience.
Using inspiration, we can reach our highest goals and help others do the same. By following the advice in this article, we can motivate others to do their best. This way, we all grow and succeed together.
Inspiration is a key to personal growth. By using it, we can build a community that is motivated, empowered, and successful.
FAQ
What makes a motivational speech effective?
A good motivational speech tells real stories that touch the heart. It also gives a clear call to action. This inspires people to take steps towards change.
How do motivational speeches impact personal growth?
Motivational speeches can spark personal change. They push people to go from feeling inspired to actually doing something. This change can last over time with consistent effort.
What role do motivational speeches play in leadership?
Motivational speeches are key for leaders. They inspire teams and share a common goal. This builds trust and makes leaders more effective.
How have digital platforms changed the way we consume motivational content?
Digital tools like TED Talks and social media have made motivational content more accessible. Now, people can find inspiring messages from all over the world.
Can motivational speeches be tailored to different contexts?
Yes, motivational speeches can fit many settings. This includes work, school, sports, and personal growth. Each area has its own needs and ways to approach.
What are some common challenges faced by motivational speakers?
Speakers often face challenges like stage fright and connecting with different audiences. But, with practice and experience, these can be overcome.
How can the effectiveness of motivational messages be measured?
To measure the impact of motivational messages, look at short and long-term effects. Check for behavioral changes and success stories. This gives insight into their effectiveness.
Are motivational speeches culturally sensitive?
Yes, motivational speeches can be culturally sensitive. They can be tailored to fit different cultures. This involves finding universal themes and being aware of cultural differences.
Who are some of America's most influential motivational speakers?
In America, influential speakers include Tony Robbins, Brené Brown, Les Brown, and Simon Sinek. They are known for their inspiring messages and unique styles.
What is the science behind motivation and inspiration?
The science of motivation and inspiration involves how our brains react to inspiring content. It includes the release of dopamine and how motivation leads to action.
How can one craft a motivational speech?
To craft a motivational speech, start with a clear message. Structure it for impact and use delivery techniques that connect with the audience. Authentic storytelling and emotional resonance are key.
To suggest that the consensus expert view of the Lions 2016 season looks bleak is a massive understatement. The national media has ragged on Detroit, consistently making predictions of them ranking in the mid-twenties of a 32 team league. The common thought around this decision? What it basically boils down to is that without Megatron the Lions will be a shell of a team. This theory has been thoroughly beaten down in numerous articles on this site and now, two preseason games watching the Marvin Jones/Matthew Stafford connection, provides the perfect opportunity to come out of nowhere as they did in the second half of last year and prove the doubters wrong. The most significant factor that can help them do this is their strength of schedule. Detroit will play the AFC south and NFC east as their rival divisions this year, arguably the two worst in the league last season, as well as New Orleans and Los Angeles as their random division games. While several players will need to step up in order to capitalize on this weak draw, the Lions are ideally set to shock the league this season. With that lets get into the 2016 Lions season predictions:
This may seem controversial to some, but the Colts are a highly overrated team. Many have chalked up their disappointing 8-8 season to a few key injuries and some bad Luck (pardon the pun) suggesting that they will be automatically back in the playoffs with Luck back to his old self. The fact remains though that there are some fundamental flaws with this team. Even if Andrew Luck comes back to perfect form and he gets it going with his various weapons, are those new young pieces on the offensive line really going to improve his protection in the very first game of the season? Not to mention Frank Gore in the run game who wasn’t himself last year and is now 33 years old, or that potential dumpster fire of a defense with arguably no starter above the league average outside of Vontae Davis. The Lions have a great match-up here on both sides of the ball and should capitalize. Record: 1-0
Heading back to Detroit for the home opener, the Lions have another lovely setup against the rebuilding Titans. I personally really like Tennessee with the pieces they currently have and what they are trying to do, but they are still extremely young and inexperienced with plenty of holes left to fill. The main point of concern will be finding someone, or a combination of people, to cover Delanie Walker who is a bit of a match up nightmare. Shutting down a pretty hard nosed run game should also be a priority although a lot of stacked boxes should help with that. At the end of the day with our receiving corps matching up against Jason McCourty, Perrish Cox, and Brice McCain there isn’t a lot to be concerned about. Record 2-0
The Packers have a rather difficult start to the season, going to Jacksonville against the new look scrappy Jags before hosting the Vikings and then Detroit. They have a significant chance of being 1-1 through those games with an outside shot, yet real possibility, of being 0-2 with a rusty Jordy Nelson and a few weaker position groups. With this in mind however, a good team desperate for a win at home should be tough to beat. As much as I want to write the Lions win in Lambeau, they have to lose sometimes and this seems like a natural place for that to occur. The one thing that would potentially change predictions is if Green Bay ends up being without Nelson, who is currently recovering from another knee injury. It is clear from last season that this is not the same offense without him, and in turn, even with a slow start and a slightly improved defense, Green Bay becomes a much more beatable team without him in the lineup. Regardless, this projection has to assume he will be available. Record: 2-1
Oh the Bears. Every year they go out and make free agency splashes as if they’re actually still contenders, their fans still clinging to their predictions that 2010’s success is still going to come back around over half a decade later. For some reason they can’t see when its time to blow the whole damn thing up. Big arrivals have led to yet another round of early offseason buzz which has quickly died off after they got goose egged by Denver at home in the first game of 2016. Of course its only preseason but it didn’t take a rocket scientist to identify that a couple linebackers weren’t going to fix this team. The o-line continues to be extremely shaky, especially with their center Grasu gone for the season, Kevin White looks like a third round rookie instead of a 2nd year top 10 pick, and there is still a clear unrest in the lineup as they continue the conversion from the traditional Bears base 4-3 defense into a new look 3-4. Despite all these issues though, there’s still enough talent there that a good quarterback could revive this team into a playoff push. Unfortunately for the Bears their quarterback is Jay Cutler, who will instantly get grumpy and mope his way to another sub .500 finish. Record: 3-1
The Eagles are definitely a team in transition at this point. There’s some solid vets like Jason Peters and Fletcher Cox, some good up and coming young players like Zach Ertz and Mychal Kendricks, and some place holders, namely Sam Bradford. While they could have attempted to build for short term contention, they are currently looking at the future, drafting Carson Wentz second overall in this years draft. With Lane Johnson the Eagles’ young right tackle facing a ten game suspension for testing positive for performance enhancing drugs, I see no way they put the future face of the franchise out on the field in this early stage, especially after he received a cracked rib in his first game. This bodes well for the Lions. Sam Bradford isn’t going to beat Detroit through the air with a starting WR line of Jordan Mathews, Nelson Agholor, and Rueben Randle (or even newly acquired Dorial Green-Beckham). Leodis McKelvin, Rodney McLeod and company are not going to stop the Lions passing attack. That’s basically the ball game right there. Expect the key match-up here to be Jim Schwartz’s Philly d-line versus the young Lions o-line, however as long as they can keep the pressure to a minimum the Lions should run away with this one quickly, especially at the start of a three game home stand. Record: 4-1
If the Eagles are a team in transition then Los Angeles is a team in clear rebuild. At the same time though, the Rams might actually be the bigger threat of the two teams. Sure Case Keenum and Jared Goff are battling out the QB position, but their offensive line is a complete mess of young squandered talent, and Kenny Britt is still inexcusably their starting wide receiver. That being the case, there are several redeeming qualities that make them look feisty. Their defensive line is still as deadly as ever, they have a sneaky good linebacker group despite ditching James Laurinaitis. Of course, Todd Gurley cannot be ignored in the backfield. If I were defensive coordinator Teryl Austin I would just put eleven guys in the box and see if the Rams could make an open completion as there is truly no other team with such a massive difference between their passing and rushing attack. Again the key to this game (outside containing Todd Gurley) is keeping Mathew Stafford’s jersey clean. If the Detroit o-line can do that, the predictions are for another smooth sail to a victory. Record: 5-1
There are some who think very highly of the Redskins. I am not one of those people. This is a team built upon a precipice, like a massive boulder in a Wile E. Coyote cartoon. If Kirk Cousins falls apart again (predictions point in that direction), or if Matt Jones continues to play like he did later in the season, or if Jordan Reed gets hurt as he always manages to do, or if Josh Norman fails to live up to expectations as many expect him to, the boulder tips and this hype machine all comes tumbling down. I expect several of those things to occur by week seven, making Washington one of the more beatable teams on the Lion’s schedule. Have Darius Slay lock up on Garcon, send a safety high to cover for Jackson’s speed and there’s another victory and a three game sweep on the home stand. Record: 6-1
I think the Texans look really tough this season, but not for the conventional reasons. Many strong predictions for the Texans point to the offensive improvements like their rookie wide receivers, quarterback Brock Osweiller, and running back Lamar Miller. While the receivers have looked good for rookies, Osweiller has been nothing short of a hot mess, and Miller is still a question mark. This offense will rise and fall depending on whether Miller can be the next Arian Foster. With a jumbled up injury riddled o-line, a quarterback that doesn’t seem to be providing much real support, and a looming knowledge that he’s never quite been able to break out his entire career, that will be a very difficult task to accomplish. The thing that should really concern teams about the Texans is their defense. They have always had a good unit but have always been bugged by one or two key losses or issues that hangs them up from being elite. This year however everyone is healthy (outside the precautionary sitting out of JJ watt) and more importantly Jadeveon Clowney seems to have started to figure out the NFL game. The man looks absolutely terrifying when on his game and with another half a season under his belt, he should be tearing up o-lines around the league, something that does not bode well for Taylor Decker and company. The Texans are coming off a short week and a road trip but I see the Lions win streak coming to an end here. Record: 6-2
If you threw out the quarterbacks I think it would be a pretty fair statement to suggest the Vikings have the most complete roster in the NFC North. Their defense should again be solid, Adrian Peterson is still himself, and their receivers have even improved from last season. The issue is that Teddy Bridgewater thus far has been a pretty significant disappointment and his mystery shoulder ailment is not helping his case. The key here will be to attack the Vikings most obvious flaw – their offensive line. An already poor unit has lost one of its better players in Phil Loadholt and should be ripe for outside pressure. If the Lions defense can regularly pressure Bridgewater and stop runs between the tackles, they will be able to put up enough points on the other side of the ball to win against Minnesota. U.S. Bank Stadium will not be a very friendly place to play next year but catching the Vikings on a short week after a road trip should be a great time to pull out a win on the road. Record: 7-2
Jacksonville is a really dangerous team on both sides of the ball. Their offense looks great with Bortles growing into a solid gunslinger and a great array of weapons along with one of the better running combos in the league in Chris Ivory and T.J. Yeldon. Then on top of that you have all those additions on the defense from Dante Fowler to Jalen Ramsey. The talent level on this team is extremely high, the only concern is if they can find a way to come together quickly. I believe they should be on the same page by week eleven. The number two corner of the Lions does not match up well against a big bodied number two receiver like Allen Hurns, and the team as a whole might be overwhelmed here by a better roster. Despite the general stereotypical predictions of the Jaguars and the Lions coming off a bye week I have them taking this one from us at home. Record: 7-3
In the first rematch game of the season I have the Vikings taking their revenge on Thanksgiving at Ford Field. Rolling off the bye week into a loss puts the Lions in a tough situation to rebound against another difficult team. This should be an intense defensive battle, as the crowd helps eliminate the Vikings offense while the Vikings defense, with a games worth of film at their disposal, tighten up against the Lions offense. Same keys as before, which should be helped significantly by extra false start penalties, but this game will focus far more on our offense’s need to be successful. The line will have to stay strong to let Stafford get through his reads, and lesser targets will need to step up and contribute as the big names deal with tougher players covering them. In the end, Minnesota sneaks the win out in a tight one. Record: 7-4
I had this as the most likely “weird loss” of the season. Every year a contending team seems to whiff against a team they typically should beat and I see the Saints as that for the Lions this year. Their defense is still dreadful, however the offense should be quite good with Michael Thomas looking great taking over for Marques Colston, combined with Brandin Cooks in the slot, Ingram in the backfield, and of course Brees in the pocket. Health and some veteran acquisitions should help improve the Saints lineup on both sides of the ball, as well as some more reasonable and effective defensive schemes from new coordinator Dennis Allen. It’s not out of the realm of possibility to suggest the Lions could head down to the Superdome in a slump and lay an egg against a hostile crowd. I see this as a shootout that will come down to whoever has the last bullet. Put that down in my predictions as a Saints victory for now but don’t be shocked if the Lions pull this one away too. Record: 7-5
Playing Chicago at home is always a great way to snap out of a slump. If my prior predictions of their team is correct, the Bears should be basically playing for pride at this point in the season. Potentially, if things get bad enough, they may trot Bryan Hoyer out on the field as the starter. At the same time however, based on the events that have happened to the Lions at this point in the season, this game will be massively important for them. On a three game losing skid with a divisional game on the line and the Vikings and/or Packers at least breathing down their necks if not past them in the standings, this will be a must win game. I do not see them disappointing against a tuned out Bears team. Record: 8-5
The Giants are a team of big names and little substance. They have proven nothing on offense outside of the Eli to Odell connection, and the back seven of the defense is less than impressive. While they might have developed a run game by this point with a breakout from Paul Perkins, they don’t even have an o-line capable of sustaining it. The key to this game will be on the tackles limiting outside pressure. The Giants are planning on running all their pressure off the defensive ends as they are starting two run stuffing space eaters at the defensive tackle position. A lot of quick throws and outside runs should help keep the pressure at bay. I don’t suspect many issues after that. Record: 9-5
Dallas is looking like a really good offense this season whether Tony Romo or Dak Prescott is under center. The o-line is fantastic, the running back committee should be the best in the league, Terrence Williams across from Dez Bryant is in a contract year, and the defense by this point should have their pass rushers DeMarcus Laurence and Randy Gregory back in the fold. Barring a total collapse to start the season, I have the Cowboys running away with the NFC East division. To be successful here, the Lions will have to find success throwing on a slightly weaker Dallas secondary and find a way to soften up the Dallas o-line on the other side of the ball in order to contain the run game. If Eziekiel Elliot is allowed to get into open space on a regular basis this will be a long game. As much as I would love the Lions getting their revenge in prime time at AT&T stadium, I have them dropping this one in a close one. Record: 9-6
At this point Green Bay should have their playoff spot all locked up with Minnesota and Detroit fighting it out for a wild card position, based on my projections. In Detroit, in a must win game for the playoffs, the final game of the season, against a divisional rival, the crowd will be at its ultimate height and that’s not even including the possibility of Rogers and or others sitting. The Lions take this game with the help of the home crowd and head to the playoffs.
Predictions from the rest of the staff at DetroitLionsPodcast.com
Case:
Whether it ends up a 5 or 12 win season, you won’t count me among the surprised. Talented but potentially highly flawed, this team is desperate for solid coaching (8-8)
R.J.:
The amount of talent on this team vs. the schedule as it looks now could bode well for the Lions. If Jim Bob Cooter can get the offense moving quickly we should have the offense to match a good defense. One way to win games is to score more points than your opponent, I think that’s something the Lions may actually be able to do this year. (11-5)
Kyle:
I tried to be as critical as possible but the more I look at the schedule, there’s no reason they can’t go 11-5. Assuming the o-line is improved and Levy is back to taking away short throws, the playoffs are a possibility. (11-5)
Brandon:
Detroit will sweep the Bears again, but split the wins with Green Bay and Minnesota. Detroit takes losses to Green Bay, Minnesota, Houston, Washington, and New York. Detroit does have a favorable schedule with playing at Green Bay week 3 and at Chicago week 4, so the weather won’t be a factor for those games. They have a Monday night football game at Dallas week 16 which will be huge for both teams. Detroit finally has the depth in the receiving game to help the offense out. Defense has depth in the line and DeAndre Levy is back which is huge. The major factor is the offensive line. If they can succeed, this will be a good season. If they fail, a repeat of last year, possibly worse, will happen. (11-5)
Chris:
I’ve had a difficult time making predictions about the Lions this year, they feel like a team that could go 4-12 or 12-4. Either extreme would require some sort of massive event to happen. If I take the schedule into account and how well Matthew Stafford has been running this offense, I feel like this team should get 10 wins this year, ending up at 10-6. I don’t think Caldwell sees another season in Detroit, even if 10-6 gets the team into the playoffs, but that’s a conversation for another time. (10-6)
In the end I think we all have found a similar theme. This is a very talented team with lots of potential but also lots of questions. If things go the right way they most definitely are a playoff team. If things go wrong however, they could easily be headed for the basement. While we won’t know which direction they head until the games are played, we believe there is more reason for hope than misery for the Detroit Lions 2016 season.
Chris is the founder of everything you see here. A former radio presenter and Detroit native, he now resides in sunny California – and like so many of us, he found himself marooned on an island devoid of other Lions fans. After spending a few years in the Detroit Lions Reddit community he decided to start the Detroit Lions Podcast. Its become the #1 Detroit Lions podcast, and regularly ranks with the top podcasts in Detroit. With a mixture of pre-recorded shows, live & recorded phone-ins, and live post-game broadcasts - this is his slice of Honolulu Blue heaven.
