Following a narrow 20‑17 victory over Green Bay, Lions coach Dan Campbell says the team’s first consecutive wins in 17 games could be the catalyst for a deeper playoff push.
Key points
- Back‑to‑back wins are a rare but vital milestone for the Lions, signaling momentum heading into the crucial divisional matchup against Minnesota.
- Defensive confidence is rising, with several players highlighted for limiting Green Bay’s passing attack.
- The run game remains inconsistent; Campbell expects improvements as center Cade Mays returns and technique is refined.
- Key injuries are limited to minor ankle issues for Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and Amon‑Ra St. Brown, with both expected to practice soon.
Head coach Dan Campbell addressed the media on Monday after Detroit’s 20‑17 win over the Packers, a result that lifted the Lions to 4‑2 overall and 1‑0 in the NFC North. The victory marked the franchise’s first back‑to‑back wins in 17 games, a milestone Campbell highlighted as a sign of a “good team” that can win multiple games at different points in the season.
Campbell praised the defense, noting a second strong performance in a row and growing confidence among the unit. He singled out cornerbacks Khalil Dorsey and D.J. Reed, safety Chuck Clark, defensive lineman Tyleik Williams, edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson and returning safety Brian Branch for their roles in limiting Green Bay’s passing attack below season averages.
Defensive confidence builds
On offense, Campbell acknowledged the need for more efficiency, especially in the run game. Detroit logged 119 rushing yards at a 3.6‑yard average per carry, and Campbell said the team is “investing a lot right now in the run and that’s where we have to be better.” He also lauded quarterback Jared Goff’s elite play and highlighted left tackle Penei Sewell, receivers Amon‑Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Isaac TeSlaa and tight ends Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright for their blocking contributions.
Special‑teams highlights included returner DeAndre Carter’s near‑breakout punts and kickoffs, as well as a key block by D.J. Wonnum on a late Packers field‑goal attempt. Injury updates were brief: cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and wideout Amon‑Ra St. Brown each have minor ankle issues and are expected to sit out Wednesday’s practice, with hopes of returning Thursday.
Run game consistency remains a focus
When asked about the significance of stacking wins, Campbell emphasized that consecutive victories are rare for Detroit and “mean a lot because good teams win multiple games at multiple points in the season.” He said the recent wins over Arizona and Green Bay are a step in the right direction as the Lions prepare to face undefeated Minnesota (6‑0) at Ford Field on Sunday.
Reader questions
Why does Dan Campbell consider stacking wins important for Detroit?
Campbell said consecutive victories are rare for the Lions and indicate that a team can win at multiple points in a season, which he views as essential for long‑term success.
What areas did Campbell identify as needing improvement after the Packers win?
He pointed to run‑game efficiency, noting a low yards‑per‑carry average, and stressed the need for better technique and fewer missed assignments in the rushing attack.
Which players were highlighted for their performance in the recent win?
Campbell highlighted defensive backs Khalil Dorsey and D.J. Reed, safety Chuck Clark, lineman Tyleik Williams, edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, safety Brian Branch, quarterback Jared Goff, left tackle Penei Sewell, receivers Amon‑Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Isaac TeSlaa, and tight ends Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright.
Source: detroitlions.com