Growing up in the early 2000's as a Lions fan was anything but easy. Just ask CA Chess, current WR of the Arizona Outlaws, who grew up fanatically following the Lions. Detroit seemed to always have players that would fill you with hope and promise and potential only to descend into obscurity at a unprecedented rate (looking at you: Charles Rogers). The 0-16 season, Orvlosky's safety, the bullshit possession call against the Bears, the weak ass flag Dez begged for in the playoffs, for all of those moments Chess looked on -- his dreams crushed each time.
There was only one player in those years worth rooting for. He was consistent, loyal, hard working and an expert at his craft. Calvin Johnson? No. Barry Sanders? No. Those two players were great but Chess admired the Kicker Jason Hanson who was the model of loyalty and expertise. His number 4 jersey was about the only thing a Lions fan could look forward to seeing on Sunday afternoons. In fact, Chess used to get up and get a snack or use the bathroom anytime the Lions would attempt a field goal because he was so unbelievably certain that Hanson would nail the kick. It's hard to believe that such an athlete would look up to the kicker, but ask any kids who grew up watching the Lions during those "lean years" and they'll tell you unequivocally that Jason Hanson belongs in Canton.
239 words
There was only one player in those years worth rooting for. He was consistent, loyal, hard working and an expert at his craft. Calvin Johnson? No. Barry Sanders? No. Those two players were great but Chess admired the Kicker Jason Hanson who was the model of loyalty and expertise. His number 4 jersey was about the only thing a Lions fan could look forward to seeing on Sunday afternoons. In fact, Chess used to get up and get a snack or use the bathroom anytime the Lions would attempt a field goal because he was so unbelievably certain that Hanson would nail the kick. It's hard to believe that such an athlete would look up to the kicker, but ask any kids who grew up watching the Lions during those "lean years" and they'll tell you unequivocally that Jason Hanson belongs in Canton.
239 words