If only...

Jason Hanson had missed that last second field goal against the Saints the Lions would have finished with a 4-12 record, as would have New Orleans with the win, giving Detroit the #2 overall pick in the 2006 NFL draft. Detroit would have had the lowest opponents win/loss percentage, moving them to the top of all the four win teams in terms of draft position.

With Houston a sure bet to take Reggie Bush with the top overall pick, Detroit would have had their pick of potential franchise quarterbacks including USC's Matt Leinart. For an organization that has searched for nearly 50 years to find a quarterback and be a serious contender, it is rare that a quarterback comes into the league with Leinart's credentials. A Heisman trophy and potential back-to-back undefeated seasons and National Championships (3 straight National Championships if you include USC's AP National Championship in 2004).

Given the success of the Cincinnati Bengals under former USC quarterback Carson Palmer, it is clear how a true franchise player in the most critical position on the field can turn around the fortunes of a struggling organization.

With a number of teams ahead of them (New Orleans, Tennessee, New York Jet, and Oakland) potentially looking to draft a quarterback, sitting at #9 does not bode well for the Lions in terms of grabbing a "high profile" quarterback to replace the inconsitant Joey Harrington.

Why Jason, why?