Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz has urged quarterback Matthew Stafford to go back to basics in order to get out of his poor run of form.

Stafford has thrown 12 interceptions in six games, with the Lions losing five of those to be eliminated from playoff contention, but Schwartz does not believe that dropping the player would benefit him.

"I think there were times in this run where he was overly aggressive," Schwartz told the Lions' official website. "I think he'd probably even tell you that. I don't think that he needs anything other than to keep playing and I think whether you have a slump in free throws or batting slump, or something else, I think you have to stick with your fundamentals.

"I think he's done a really good job of that. I think you have to practise well, I think he's done a good job of that. His preparation has been outstanding. I think that over the course of time his talent will show. It's been a tough situation. He was playing really well for us this year. He'll continue to play well for us."

Stafford has completed 58.1% of his attempted passes this season, his lowest since his rookie year.