Howard’s Return Is Super for Lions
NEW ORLEANS — Desmond Howard apparently knows what it takes to make tacklers miss at the Superdome.
Howard’s 95-yard punt return for a touchdown Sunday gave the Detroit Lions the lead for good in a 14-10 victory over the New Orleans Saints in their season opener. It was reminiscent of Howard’s 99-yard kickoff return on the same field in the 1997 Super Bowl that clinched the Green Bay Packers’ 35-21 victory over the New England Patriots.
“The one in the Super Bowl was a little longer,†Howard said. “But six points is six points, especially when you’re down and you can help your team out.â€
The Lions needed the help as they managed only two Jason Hanson field goals before Howard grabbed a punt with 2:06 left in the third quarter and rambled downfield, giving them a 12-7 lead.
“I just think about D and D,†Detroit wide receiver Johnny Morton said, “Desmond and defense. Without them, we might be going home with a bitter feeling.â€
The Saints’ newly installed West Coast offense had only 252 yards and 13 first downs and converted only six of 17 third downs.
Saint running back Ricky Williams, coming off a disappointing rookie season, had 84 yards in 20 carries and fumbled twice.
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