NFL WEEK 15: Inside the Huddle

Lions fans plan ‘Millen Man March’

The Kansas City Star

Not only could the Detroit Lions be embarrassed by the Cincinnati Bengals today, they could be embarrassed by their fans. It’s the Lions’ last home game, so it’s the fans’ last chance to express themselves, and they’re not happy with team president Matt Millen, whose team is 20-57 under his watch and is now looking for a third head coach in less than five years.

A Detroit sports-talk radio station is organizing an “Angry Fan March,” which some are dubbing the “Millen Man March,” and is encouraging fans to protest before the game. A fan Web site is organizing an “Orange-Out,” urging fans to wear Cincinnati colors to the game. Others are selling “FIRE MILLEN” T-shirts.

During the Lions’ last home game, a 21-16 loss to Minnesota on Dec. 4, fans taunted Millen and sent a message to owner William Clay Ford by chanting “FI-RE MIL-LEN!” One fan ran through the stands with a “FIRE MILLEN” sign, got tackled by security and became a local celebrity.

Fans have been chanting and holding up signs at sporting events involving local teams ever since — even at Red Wings games in Washington and Atlanta. Some Green Bay fans held up “KEEP MILLEN” signs last Sunday during the Packers’ 16-13 overtime victory over the Lions at Lambeau Field.

“I understand why they’re angry,” wide receiver Roy Williams said. “We’re 4-9.”