Sammie Lee Hill News

If five different Detroit Lions fans were asked what Detroit's biggest need was, almost certainly, five different answers would be given.

It serves as a reminder, with the Lions playing the Browns this weekend, that Detroit still hasn't found anything close to a replacement for NT Shaun Rogers since trading him to Cleveland prior to the 2008 season.

Detroit vs. Minnesota , 1 p.m. Where: Metrodome, Minneapolis. Line: Vikings by 17.

Running back Kevin Smith #34 of the Detroit Lions carries the bll against the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field on September 20, 2009 in Detroit, Michigan.

At some point in the 2009 NFL season, the Detroit Lions needed to find a time to exhale.

The Lions were on the field for the second practice of their bye week this morning, though a number of players did not participate in the portion open to the media.

The play of rookie defensive tackle Sammie Hill, right, has been a pleasant surprise for the Detroit Lions.

Posted by ESPN.com's Kevin Seifert Catching up on a newsy Tuesday: Detroit Lions: Two previously-injured players participated in a post-bye practice -- quarterback Matthew Stafford and defensive tackle Sammie Lee Hill -- and the Lions unveiled a slightly reconfigured offensive line.

There's a lot to do and learn for NFL rookies after draft day. But six games into a season, rookies are not expected to use youth as an excuse.

Posted by ESPN.com's Kevin Seifert I thought you produced a constructive and lively discussion this week on the future of Detroit.

The Lions were on the field for the second practice of their bye week this morning, though a number of players did not participate in the portion open to the media.

The Detroit Lions' current injury report reads like a list of Lions impact starters.

Posted by ESPN.com's Kevin Seifert CHICAGO -- As ESPN.com's John Clayton reported earlier Sunday morning, Detroit tailback Kevin Smith will be in uniform for the Lions' game against the Bears at Soldier Field.

Hunter Hillenmeyer is injured in the 3rd quarter of 25-19 win over Seattle. October 2, 2009 While Lance Briggs returned to practice Thursday with a sore left foot, fellow linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer is expected to miss Sunday's game with a rib injury.