The Detroit Lions’ aggressiveness – and expertise – have taken them far this season.
That very same aggressiveness could possibly be their downfall.
Dan Campbell has the utmost confidence in his group, however a few of his selections defy logic.
That occurred once more through the loss to the Buffalo Payments.
The Lions scored a landing and have been down simply ten factors with 12 minutes left within the sport.
There was greater than sufficient time left to attain twice, particularly with their explosive offense and plethora of playmakers.
Even so, Campbell selected to kick an onside kick.
“Appears a bit of early, Tony, however OK — right here we go.”
– Jim Nantz as Lions fail to get well an onside kick with 12 minutes left pic.twitter.com/MVquIlSURQ
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) December 16, 2024
As often occurs, his group did not get well it, and the Payments ended up beginning their drive deep into their territory.
It didn’t take lengthy earlier than they scored once more, and the Lions finally misplaced the sport.
When requested about that, Campbell admitted that as a lot as he thought his group would get well the soccer, he wished he hadn’t carried out that (through Brad Galli).
Dan Campbell addressed going for the onside kick early: “I assumed we might get that ball.”
He mentioned in hindsight, the return made him assume: “I want I hadn’t carried out it.” pic.twitter.com/0rEMLiNzlM
— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) December 16, 2024
Granted, the Lions have already clinched a spot within the playoffs, however they nonetheless wanted to win to keep away from the scorching-hot Philadelphia Eagles and get the No. 1 seed.
That questionable choice might value him that.
There have all the time been considerations about Campbell’s decision-making, and this doesn’t do a lot to assist his case.
As a lot as he deserves loads of credit score for this group’s tradition turnaround, his teaching employees and the myriad of expertise he has at his disposal have additionally carried out their half.
There aren’t any do-overs within the playoffs, and it might be a disgrace to see such a terrific season go down the drain due to one thing like that.
NEXT: Dan Campbell Speaks Out About His Aggressive 4th Down Choices