If Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford's ankle injury is relatively serious (FOX sports reported he was in a walking boot after Sunday's loss to Atlanta; an MRI is reportedly scheduled for today), the Lions would be wise to start backup Shaun Hill Sunday at Denver. There is no need in this particular game to force Stafford to play with an injury, especially one that only heals significantly through rest.
The Lions have a bye week after this. Hill is good enough to win a game or two while Stafford heals. He is not nearly as good an option for the stretch run of the season when the Lions' postseason chances will be on the line.
That is the time of the year when Stafford needs to be at his best - and healthiest.