Following a controversial 19-14 loss to the Bears on Sunday, the Lions feared that starting quarterback Matthew Stafford may have to miss up to six weeks following a shoulder injury that he suffered in the first half. But according to beat writer Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, Stafford will not need surgery.

If Stafford can avoid surgery, he’ll likely be able to return at some point this season. But that doesn’t help the Lions’ present situation, as Shaun Hill now becomes the starter for the immediate future.

Hill completed 9-of-19 passes for 88 yards and an interception after replacing Stafford yesterday in Chicago and while his numbers would have looked much better had the touchdown to Calvin Johnson counted, the fact remains that his arm strength is a major issue. Jim Schwartz says that he won’t change the offense under Hill, but it may have to eventually because the former Niner has never been successful throwing the ball vertically.

Stafford not having to have surgery is a plus for Lion fans, but having to watch Hill for the next couple of months is unfortunate. Of course, the fan base is used to unfortunate.