Matt Stafford did more than throw five touchdown passes Thursday.
He also appeared to be having fun, which was in short supply as the Lions endured a 1-7 start and the firing of offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi (among others).
But now, having won three straight games after yesterday’s demolition of the Eagles, Stafford said the confidence stems from the game plans being installed by new coordinator Jim Bob Cooter.
“It’s just been good,” Stafford said, via Jeff Seidel of the Detroit Free Press. “Jim Bob and I have a good relationship. He’s a smart guy. He communicates well with the guys on our offense. He’s young in his job, but he’s not afraid. He’s aggressive. That’s fun. That rubs off on guys when a guy is aggressive and trusts us to go out and make good decisions.”
Of course, it helps when Stafford is upright and able to see receivers, as improved offensive line play has been a significant element of their recent surge. But Stafford sounded giddy about the aggressive approach Cooter has taken since getting the keys.
Stafford said that Cooter called a play in the second quarter full of slant routes, but changed his mind before it was run.
“He said, ‘Ah, screw that. Let’s be aggressive,’ ” Stafford said. “Then, he gave me four verticals. I was fired up for it. . . .
“I loved it. Jim Bob called a great game, put us in position to win, in a position to make plays.”
It certainly helped that they were playing the Eagles, who have done their part to make plenty of coordinators look good. But the enthusiasm the Lions have shown in the Cooter Era seems real.