Pioli Could Pull Pieces Together Quickly for Lions

The blueprint seems so simple that even the Detroit Lions couldn't screw it up.   Raid the best franchise from this decade to reinvent the worst. Hire away Scott Pioli from New England's front office to become president/general manager. He then tabs Patriots whiz-kid offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels as the new head coach. And when the free-agent signing period begins, ink Pats quarterback Matt Cassel to a massive free-agent contract. The Ford family couldn't receive a better bailout — especially after fielding what may be the league's first 0-16 team. The key to making this work is Pioli. He has declined prior feelers to remain New England's vice president of player personnel. Some of the opportunities simply weren't appealing enough, especially as the Patriots were en route to winning three Super Bowls and playing in a fourth. He also has shown great loyalty to Patriots coach Bill Belichick — who hired Pioli for his first NFL job in 1992 — and team owner Robert ... (link)