Mike Valenti: Lions Are Winning Home Playoff Game

Mike Valenti is buying into the hype surrounding the Detroit Lions.

The NFL world has been bullish on the Detroit Lions heading into the 2023 season. 

Add popular 97.1 The Ticket radio host Mike Valenti to the list of those levying very high expectations on Dan Campbell's squad for the upcoming season. 

"You’re not worried about being hurt or being disappointed and you’re just going to ride into the sun," Valenti said this week. "I have no fear that I’ll be too emotionally destroyed. This is what I believe: you're winning this division and you are winning a home playoff game."

For years, Valenti has been among the loudest vocal critics of an organization that has not won a playoff game since he started broadcasting locally back in 2004. 

General manager Brad Holmes has overhauled the roster the past 24 months, which now includes several young players at key positions on both offense and defense. 

After a 9-8 season, the team are the overwhelming favorite to win the NFC North this season. One of the primary goals this year is to host a home playoff game, which has not occurred since Ford Field opened in 2002.  

"I'm flying right into the sun: I believe in them," said Valenti. "I believe in what they’re building and I feel like they’re going to have a really nice year. I think they’re capable of winning 11 games. I think they’re going to be a really good football team. I don’t fear it."

The team has garnered the most optimism in the history of the franchise, with some pundits placing the Lions among the teams that are Super Bowl contenders this season. 

Valenti noted, "For the Lions, all I’ve ever asked is put a legitimate product out there and I’ll support you. I think they’ve got a really good football team."