You can say a lot of things about Matthew Stafford’s play so far in his young career, but one thing you can’t be said is the kid doesn’t have heart.  Stepping behind center in that Detroit offense every week is akin to stepping in front of a firing squad with a cigarette dangling out of the corner of your mouth.  Stafford, though, has not complained once. 

When the going has gotten tough, Stafford has stepped up.  He already has a signature victory with that gutsy shootout win in one of the more surprising and fun games of the year over Cleveland.  With a bum shoulder he threw the winning TD pass.  He turned right back around and started Thursday against the Packers when no one thought he had it in him. 

Stafford might not turn out to be a star in this league, but he sure has the demeanor to play in Detroit.  Every time you see him get drilled, he pops right back up.  In my opinion, he has been worth every penny the Lions gave him for being the number one overall pick so far.