Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell addressed the media on Monday following his team’s narrow 20-17 victory over the Green Bay Packers, a win that brought Detroit’s record to 4-2 overall and 1-0 in the NFC North. Attention now turns immediately to a crucial divisional matchup on Sunday at Ford Field against the undefeated Minnesota Vikings, who sit at 6-0.
Reviewing the tape from the Green Bay contest, Campbell pointed to significant strides on the defensive side of the ball. The unit delivered its second consecutive strong performance, showcasing growing confidence and limiting an explosive Green Bay passing attack to numbers well below their season averages. Campbell also praised improvements within the coverage units.
Individual defensive standouts singled out by the head coach included cornerbacks Khalil Dorsey and D.J. Reed, safeties Chuck Clark and Brian Branch—who recently returned from the physically unable to perform list—alongside defensive lineman Tyleik Williams and edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson.
On the offensive side, Campbell acknowledged that while the opening and closing drives proved critical to securing the victory, there remains substantial room for growth. Detroit compiled 119 rushing yards, but that output came with a modest average of 3.6 yards per carry. Campbell emphasized the need for greater efficiency and more explosive plays in the ground game.
“We’re investing a lot right now in the run and that’s where we have to be better,” Campbell said.
Despite the run-game inefficiencies, quarterback Jared Goff received praise for operating at an elite level, prompting consideration to put the ball in his hands even more frequently. Campbell also highlighted individual offensive contributors, including left tackle Penei Sewell, wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Isaac TeSlaa—noting TeSlaa’s blocking work—as well as tight ends Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright for their efforts in supporting the run game.
Special teams played a decisive role in the outcome, anchored by DJ Wonnum’s crucial block on a late 35-yard field goal attempt by the Packers. New returner DeAndre Carter flashed game-changing speed by nearly breaking loose on multiple punt and kickoff returns, leaving Campbell to suggest that a major return touchdown is imminent. Eric O’Neill and Jimmy Rolder were also cited for delivering strong performances across special teams units.
The Lions will carry these lessons into practice this week as they ready themselves to challenge the conference-leading Vikings.
