Lions HC taps the brakes on 'hype train'

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell. Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK

Dan Campbell taps the brakes on Lions 'hype train'

By Curt Steele | Last updated 7/24/23

At Detroit Lions training camp, which began Sunday at Allen Park, head coach Dan Campbell addressed the hype surrounding the team.

Detroit's third-year head coach emphasized he will not tolerate players acting as if they have accomplished big things.

"I think, as always, the thing that's gonna worry you is the hype train," Campbell said Sunday, per ESPN, adding, "We've got to put the work in and earn it."

Lions training camp observations: Dan Campbell’s team downplays the hype and gets to work https://t.co/aSQcVhins9
— Colton Pouncy (@colton_pouncy) July 23, 2023

Starting quarterback Jared Goff also shared the same sentiment, stating that it's amusing how they missed the playoffs with a 9-8 record in 2022 and are still considered the division favorites.

Yet there is growing positivity surrounding the team, from national media to Las Vegas sportsbooks. Even local critic Mike Valenti of 97.1 FM The Ticket in Detroit has predicted the Lions to win the division and a home playoff game this season.

Campbell is working hard to manage the excitement and maintain a realistic perspective for his team. He has valid reasons for ensuring his players don't become overconfident. Detroit has not won a playoff game since a divisional-round win during the 1991 season.

At his Day 2 training camp news conference, Campbell shared a story from his time playing under coach Bill Parcells, who used mouse traps in the locker room as a reminder for players not to become overconfident.

"Don't eat the cheese," Parcells used to say.

Campbell understands that his team has potential, but it must remain focused and driven to achieve its goals.

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