The team failed to improve upon their previous season's record of 9–7, winning eight games.
Backup quarterback Jeff Komlo finished the game and was named the starter for the next week.
Head Coach Monte Clark made the decision to give third-string quarterback Eric Hipple start on a Monday Night game against the Chicago Bears.
In front of approximately 71,000 fans, Clark's gamble paid off as the Lions defeated the Bears 48–17.
The Lions had a chance to win the division on the last day against Tampa Bay, but lost and finished in second place in the NFC Central with an 8–8 record.