Now, I can't discuss the Lions' rapid defensive improvement without mentioning the job Austin has done with the secondary. The defensive backfield was considered a huge liability heading into the season based on its previous struggles under Jim Schwartz, but the unit has played well in Austin's more aggressive scheme. Cornerbacks Rashean Mathis and Darius Slay have not allowed the ball to fly over their heads, while safeties Glover Quin and Ihedigbo have essentially shut down the open windows between the hashes. Thus, opponents have been forced to "dink and dunk" the ball to tight ends and running backs instead of taking deep shots down the field. Given the challenge of moving the ball the length of the field on short passes, the Lions have been able to employ a bend-but-don't-break strategy in critical moments. This approach allows them to preserve leads at the end of games and frustrate big-armed quarterbacks (see: Aaron Rodgers) looking for home runs in the passing game.