Former Detroit Lions coach Jim Schwartz has stated that the team's quarterback Matthew Stafford is not to blame for their poor end to the NFL campaign.
Stafford threw 13 interceptions in the second half of last season as the Lions lost their nerve in the NFC North, allowing the Green Bay Packers to overhaul them and steal a playoff place.
After missing the post-season, Schwartz was fired by the Lions but has since been named the new defensive coordinator of the Buffalo Bills.
"We were 2-6 over the last half of last season, and when you're 2-6 nobody is feeling good about their performance, whether you're the head coach, the quarterback or a defensive lineman," Schwartz told radio station WGFX-FM.
"It's a team game and I wouldn't pin it on one Matt Stafford. Matt's an outstanding quarterback. He's going to lead that team to many great things in the future.
"Everybody has some rough spots here and there, and it's up to the rest of the team to pick you up."
Despite the criticism levelled against Stafford, last season saw him join Drew Brees in becoming the only players in NFL history to pass for over 4,500 yards in three consecutive seasons.
