As the Detroit Lions continue to evaluate candidates for their vacant offensive coordinator position, the organization appears willing to think creatively. On Tuesday’s edition of The Pat McAfee Show, one unexpected name was thrown into the mix by show producer Evan Fox, a suggestion that immediately caught the attention of fans and analysts alike.
Fox framed the idea as a true curveball, saying:
“I got a name that nobody is talking about that would fit really well in Detroit, if you guys really want to hear that one. I think Dan Orlovsky, with his history with the Lions, former teammate with MCDC. The guy knows everything about Ben Johnson’s offense.” Fox said as quoted by Lions OnSI.
Why the Football Fit Is Intriguing
The case made on the show centered around familiarity with both personnel and scheme. The Lions’ offense has been built around timing, accuracy, and versatility, traits that fit perfectly with Jared Goff’s strengths and the skill sets of Detroit’s playmakers.
Fox continued:
“He loves Jared Goff. Accurate quarterbacks. All those weapons.”
Then he rattled off the core of Detroit’s offense:
“St. Brown, Jamo, Gibbs, Monty. LaPorta, when he comes back.”
From Analyst to Play Designer?
What truly sparked imagination was the vision of this former Lions quarterback moving from television studio to game-planning room.
Fox painted the picture:
“Could you imagine Dan Orlovsky on the pen and paper, or in the V.R. (virtual reality) writing up plays for the Detroit Lions next year.”
It’s a bold thought, one that leans heavily on football IQ, chemistry with Dan Campbell, and intimate knowledge of Ben Johnson’s system rather than traditional coordinator experience.
Long Shot or Hidden Gem?
While the idea remains firmly in the “outside-the-box” category, it underscores something important about where Detroit is as a franchise. This isn’t a desperate rebuild. It’s a contender looking for the right mind to preserve, evolve, and maximize an already elite offensive core.
Whether the Lions go with a proven play-caller or take a creative swing, the fact that this kind of discussion is even happening shows how wide the search net truly is.
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