The Detroit Lions have had countless issues over the last decade, but fans have never had to worry about field goal kicking. Jason Hanson, who played for the Lions for over 20 years, had always been one of the most reliable kickers in the NFL. Through the 0-16 season, several frustrating losses and even a playoff appearance two years ago, Hanson was always a steady performer in Detroit.
Against Arizona, his absence was really felt for the first time.
David Akers, who was let go from the 49ers this offseason, won the starting job at placekicker despite heavy fan support for YouTube phenom Havard Rugland, otherwise known as "Kickalicious." Akers was likely chosen because the coaching staff felt more comfortable with an established veteran kicker.
After his performance in the loss to the Cardinals, he hasn't helped himself in Detroit.
Akers missed two field goals, one to the right and one to the left, in the first quarter after his first miss was negated by an Arizona offsides penalty. In his only opportunity to redeem himself, the Cardinals blocked Akers' attempt.
During the week one win against the Vikings, the field goal unit fumbled a snap and failed to convert that score as well. In just two games, the Lions have managed to erase all the confidence that Hanson built in twenty years in the kicking game.
It wasn't just Akers that played poorly, however, the Lions were shut down on offense in the second half, after Matt Stafford and Calvin Johnson dominated young cornerback 
Patrick Peterson early. Costly penalties continued to be another factor, as Willie Young picked up a big personal foul that helped extend a Cardinals drive.
At the end of the day, the Detroit faithful were left with that frustrating feeling of dissatisfaction that comes from outplaying a team and still getting the loss. Had Akers converted his field goal chances, the Lions would have been in position to start the season 2-0.
On a more positive note, the Lions defense was strong in Arizona territory, giving a little but stiffening up and holding Carson Palmer's offense to field goals. Ndamukong Suh kept his cool the whole game and joined teammate Stephen Tulloch, who lived in the backfield. DeAndre Levy returned another interception for a touchdown, but this time it counted as Suh resisted the temptation to block irrelevant offensive linemen.
The Lions will have to be better on special teams, as Akers and returner Micheal Spurlock cost the team points and field position all game. At the end of the day, these kinds of things have been going on for several years, and if Coach Jim Schwartz can get them straightened out, this talented team could contend for a playoff spot.
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