Will the NFL go to William Clay Ford with an offer he can't refuse? According to PFT, the No Fun League may not be above a little pursuasion blackmail in asking forcing the Lions accept a little help in straightening out the franchise.

NFL.com's Adam Schefter is reporting the the league will, once again, look into moving the Thanksgiving Day game out of Detroit. In the words of an unnamed NFL official, the issue "will be reviewed at the March League meetings."

As is their wont, PFT adds 2 + 2 together, and comes up with their own scenario. The NFL will take moving the Lions showcase game off the table if Ford will accept the league's help in finding the right GM to take over the organization.

One thing PFT forgets to mention is the Lions hold one hammer over the NFL when it comes to the Turkey Day game, and we all know it's a big one. Namely Ford Motor Company advertising.

Yes, Ford is having financial issues right now. But from all accounts, they are in the best shape of the Big 3 to weather the current economic downturn. They will still have advertising dollars to spend. Bill Ford Jr, unlike his father, is deeply involved in the daily business of making and selling cars. He will not be afraid to throw the weight of his namesake company around.
If the NFL isn't above a little arm twisting extortion to insure one of their oldest franchises ultimately becomes successful (or at the very least, becomes competitive again), then I say, "Blackmail, extortion, taking the Thanksgiving Day game hostage, whatever it takes. You have my blessing!"

I've even given the NFL a head start in their discussions with the Lions, with a "negotiation" letter they can use. Remember, Goodell, you didn't get it from me...capice?