The Detroit Lions Played Statement Football

The Lions Had Something To Prove 

So it’s no wonder that the Lions entered this game with a chip on their shoulder and something to prove. Throughout the week, Dan Campbell and John Morton repeatedly answered questions and reassured the media that no one was panicking. It was one game. While mistakes were made, they were fixable. Campbell admitted, “I thought we would be cleaner than we were.”  However, stressing the mistakes made were a learning experience, he vowed, “Like I told the team, these are so correctable. Everything that showed up is so correctable, and we’ll hit head-on.”  

Lions Outstanding Offensive Onslaught

Instead, the team came out Sunday firing on all cylinders, loudly proclaiming that this team was not a team to dismiss or ignore.  Goff was exceptional, passing for 334 yards with five touchdowns and no interceptions. Amon-Ra St. Brown displayed the outstanding athleticism and uncanny chemistry he has with Goff, catching three touchdowns. Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery demonstrated the one-two punch we’ve come to expect from the league’s top RB duo.

Gibbs had 12 carries for 94 yards with one touchdown to start the scoring onslaught, while Montgomery had 11 catches for 57 yards and a score. Jameson Williams had a brilliant afternoon catching a 64-yard pass and later on a 44-yard touchdown.  Tight end Brock Wright scored a touchdown.  

Lions’ Defense Stepping Up  

Not to be outdone by the rampaging offense, Kelvin Sheppard’s defense had an equally impressive return to form. Brian Branch forced a fumble off running back D’Andre Swift. Kerby Joseph came up with a stunning interception.  

Aidan Hutchinson had Ford Field erupting in cheers when he flattened Bears quarterback Caleb Williams for his first sack of the season.  Al-Quadin Muhammad and Marcus Davenport also contributed sacks, adding to a very long afternoon for Williams.  

The Lions are now 1-1 in the very competitive, tough NFC North division. It is just one game. Detroit is still one full game behind the Green Bay Packers with almost the entire season ahead. It’s premature to get too excited. However, if last week’s loss in Green Bay rattled more than a few nerves, those fans can sleep much better tonight knowing the team they embraced over the past few seasons is back and looking more than up to the challenge.