Jim Schwartz defends quarterback Matthew Stafford

Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz has defended quarterback Matthew Stafford following his poor performances against the Baltimore Ravens.

The 25-year-old threw three interceptions, including one to kill the Lions' chances of winning the game, as he was picked off by safety Matt Elam to hand John Harbaugh's side the win at Ford Field.

"I think he's an accurate passer," Schwartz told reporters. "Matt's a very mechanically sound quarterback.

"I think we hold all our players to a high standard, but we also don't publicly shame them."

The Lions are 7-7 in their season and the loss moved them out of the NFC playoffs.