Detroit Lions wide receiver Golden Tate has called on his side to become an elite team in the NFL by backing up their 11-win season in the 2014 campaign.
The Lions won 11 games for the first time since 1991 and reached the playoffs for just the second time in the past 15 years last season.
As a result, Tate has demanded that he and his teammates elevate the level of their game to become a permanent fixture in the post-season.
"I think it's time for us to consistently, year in and year out, win ballgames," Tate told reporters. "I think we have the personnel. I think we have the coach, the coaching staff. I think we have a heck of a fan base. It's time. We're trying to shake 'the same old Lions.'
"We're trying to become — I thought we were good — I think we're trying to become elite now. I think we're trying to compete with the Packers and give them a run for their money and take over our division year in and year out."
The Lions were defeated in the wildcard round of the playoffs by the Dallas Cowboys last season.
Simon Sinclair
