The Saints were never forced to punt. That was the Lions downfall. Force two punts and the Lions probably win. They just couldn't do it, not even once.
The Lions should be drafting LBs and Strong Safeties in my opinion. Improve those positions and if our RBs get and stay healthy, the Lions are capable of getting a first round bye next year, or at least pushing the Packers a lot harder for it than this year. All the other pieces are in place.