If a team directly reflects its head coach, it is not surprising to see the Lions overwhelming opponents with their physicality, toughness and superior effort. Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes have constructed a roster of tough guys who embrace the “grind it out” approach of the coach himself and embody the spirit of Detroit.
The Lions (7-2) set the tone with a Kickoff Game road win over the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs, and they have largely continued to roll since that point, relying on an explosive offense and hard-hitting defense to blow past opponents at home and on the road.
The Jared Goff-led offense, in particular, looks like an unstoppable force between the lines. With rising whiz Ben Johnson calling the plays, Goff has flourished by targeting Amon-Ra St. Brown, Sam LaPorta and Kalif Raymond, among others, on catch-and-run concepts at short and intermediate distances. This efficient passing attack has been complemented by a rugged ground game, with David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs taking turns toting the rock. With the best offensive line in football consistently knocking defenders back at the point of attack in pass protection and on running plays, the Lions can rely on a blue-collar approach with explosive potential to overwhelm opponents in key moments. Campbell has frequently doubled down on his offense with fourth-down gambles that have put the onus on the unit’s shoulders to close out games in the fourth quarter.
With the long-suffering franchise’s ascension to becoming a legit title contender that relies on its physicality, toughness and chameleon-like playing style, Campbell has put on a coaching clinic to guide a hungry group of underdogs.