Angry Lions fans put Millen on the defensive

The Detroit Lions make their final appearance of the season at Ford Field today, when they’re liable to take a beating from both the Cincinnati Bengals and the home fans.

A 4-9 season marred by uninspired quarterback play, listless offense and the firing of coach Steve Mariucci led Lions fans to protest vigorously at the team’s past home game, Dec. 4. The brunt of their dissatisfaction was aimed at team president Matt Millen.

During a 21-16 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, fans chanted “fire Millen,” and one carried a cardboard banner with that theme. Because no banners are allowed in the stadium, the fan was tackled by security and removed.

In case owner William Clay Ford didn’t get the message, disgruntled fans are regrouping this week. One Web site organized an “Orange-out,” asking fans to wear Cincinnati colors to the game. A sports talk radio show wants to hold an “Angry Fan March” before the game.

Droughns rewards blockers

When Reuben Droughns broke a 20-year drought of 1,000-yard rushers in Cleveland, the Browns running back decided to show his appreciation for those who contributed. So he bought 13 diamond watches, valued between $3,000 and $5,000, for nine offensive linemen, two fullbacks and two tight ends. The haul reportedly came to about $50,000.

Right tackle Ryan Tucker called it “the best gift I’ve ever gotten,” and said that in St. Louis, Rams running back Marshall Faulk “didn’t get us anything.”

Tatupu anything but selfish

Seattle middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu will probably lose defensive rookie of the year honors to middle linebacker Odell Thurman of the Cincinnati Bengals, but he’s already distinguished himself among the Seahawks.

Tatupu recently informed the league that a half-sack credited to him should have been given to teammate Leroy Hill. Then there was the time Tatupu asked that special-teams players be introduced instead of the defense.

“I’m going to introduce the right wing on our punt protection?” Holmgren said. “But he was serious, and I appreciated that. “

Notes

Rams coach Mike Martz, who stepped down in October with a heart ailment, has been cleared to return Jan. 1 but is unlikely to come back to the team. … The Green Bay Packers are expected to be without tight end Bubba Franks and linebacker Robert Thomas for Monday night’s game against the Ravens because of lingering injuries. … The Carolina Panthers placed three-time Pro Bowl running back Stephen Davis on season-ending injured reserve.