There's a common phrase in the NFL, "the best ability, is availability."
The Detroit Lions probably wouldn't have a lot of it if they had a Thursday game this week, head coach Jim Caldwell even suggested having his full compliment of players for a Sunday game would be tough.
"Get healthy, that's going to be the primary focus (during the bye). We've got little things to work on and keep our nose to the grindstone," Caldwell said.
"There's no question about it, we've got quite a few guys with bumps and bruises, this comes at a great time for us."
The offensive line certainly needs some time to recollect itself over the next two weeks.
TJ Lang didn't play, Rick Wagner was in and out of the game and there's still questions on when 2016 first round pick Taylor Decker will be able to rejoin action.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford was dealing with a few injuries of his own, but took more hits in this game and seemed to be favoring his ribs after taking hits from a Saints defense that rushed him early and often.
Wide receiver Golden Tate left the game with a shoulder injury as well, as it's being reported that he could miss a few weeks, according to NFL Networks Ian Rapoport.
#Lions WR Golden Tate, who injured his shoulder Sunday, is expected to miss time, source says. Likely a few weeks. MRI will tell full story.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 16, 2017
All of these personnel losses along with inconsistent play have the Lions entering their bye week with a 3-3 record.
After a hot start to the year, things have cooled off for this team and perhaps a step away from the game after a loss can help reenergize this team.
"Sometimes festering is a good thing, we try to balance it as a team, there's nothing wrong with being really determined that you really correct your errors," Caldwell said.
The other breaking news from the NFL this weekend was the loss of Packers quarterback Aaron Rogers to a broken collarbone.
The door was already cracked, but it's now swung open for the Lions to win the NFC North division for the first time since 1993.
Caldwell though, knows it's not going to be given to them.
"He's a phenomenal player, but I still think that Green Bay is Green Bay," Caldwell added.
