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Franchise History of the Detroit Lions


After three seasons in a small river town in Ohio, the Portsmouth Spartans relocated to Detroit in 1934 and became the Lions.  Beginning that first season in the "Motor City" the team hosted a game on Thanksgiving, a tradition that has become synonymous with Detroit.  The Lions' long history has been filled with dynamic personalities including 12 members of the franchise who were elected to the Hall of Fame.

Detroit Lions Franchise History
Year Team
1934-present Detroit Lions (NFL)
1930-1933 Portsmouth Spartans (NFL)



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