A comment made by Lions head coach Dan Campbell to Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell following the Detroit Lions’ season-ending victory over the Minnesota Vikings caused considerable controversy among Rams supporters. “I’ll see you in two weeks,” Campbell told O’Connell, suggesting that the Vikings would play the Lions in the divisional playoffs after defeating the Rams in the wild-card round.
Even though the remark was casual, Rams players, supporters, and the team itself took notice.
Rams turn Campbell’s comment into motivation
In a recent interview, Rams safety Quentin Lake responded to Campbell’s remark, demonstrating that the organisation is taking notice. “We’ll keep tabs on that a little bit and hopefully somebody doesn’t eat their words,” Lake stated. Campbell’s remarks have been practically turned into bulletin board fodder by the Rams, who have taken them to heart. As a daily reminder of the alleged affront, a picture of the quote has been displayed over a locker room doorway. The squad has returned the Lombardi Trophy to the locker room as a visual reminder of their goal—winning a second Super Bowl ring—to further boost the motivated mood.
The Rams-Vikings showdown
Whether intended as a jab or just a bold forecast, Campbell’s remark has fuelled the Rams’ fervour as they prepare to take on the Vikings.
The Rams are now intent on disproving sceptics and securing their divisional round berth. The Vikings, however, pose a serious threat.
In an attempt to sabotage the Rams’ plans for a possible rematch with the Lions, Kirk Cousins and the Minnesota offence will try to take advantage of their home-field advantage. The Rams’ recent performance indicates that they perform best when underappreciated. This is just another instance of head coach Sean McVay using outside doubt or criticism as a rallying call for his squad. The Rams might be more motivated and focused going into Monday’s game after Campbell’s remark.