While I definitely side with the school of thought that Detroit should pick an offensive tackle with their first pick overall, I certainly don't think Matthew Stafford would be the colossal disaster that some of his detractors are predicting.
Stafford probably takes some extra criticism because Georgia failed to live up to their preseason hype. Not only did the Bulldogs fail to win the National Championship, they didn't even make it to a BCS Bowl Game.
Is the '08 criticism of Stafford warranted? Definitely not. He certainly grew and improved as a quarterback between his '07 and '08 seasons. In 2007, he threw for 2523 yards, a 55.7 comp. %, 7.25YPA, 19TD-10INT, and a 128.92 QB rating. In 2008, he went 3459, 61.4, 9.03, 25-10, and 153.54. His stats grew as his responsibility and expectations in the offense grew. Stafford may be the face of Georgia's failures, since he's the QB, but he was hardly the reason. The Bulldogs gave up 40+ points in all 3 of their losses. Plus, there was a game of musical chairs on the offensive line all season. Stafford played well, all things considered.
Moreover, the physical tools he has are amazing. Detroit won't be able to find a quarterback with Stafford's skillset in the later rounds of this draft. He has a big arm and can make all the throws. Him and Calvin Johnson would be a highlight reel waiting to happen.
Yes, I know he's just a junior. But, he did start for three years in the SEC. This isn't a case like Mark Sanchez where teams only have one season of tape. Stafford likely could come in and start week one if the Lions so desired.
The protection for him might not be as bad as previously imagined either. William Beatty or Eben Britton will be available at 20, Jeff Backus can slide to RT, and if the Lions wanted, they could go interior line in the second, where Max Unger will be available.
Whichever way the Lions go, fans will squabble about how it was the wrong decision.
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