The Detroit Lions came back from their bye-week on Monday to start serious preparations for Saturday’s Divisional round match against the Washington Commanders.
The timetable has been moved up a day due to the Saturday date. The team will have a walkthrough on Tuesday and will practice on Wednesday and Thursday. On Monday, media representatives met with coach Dan Campbell. Here’s a summary of that press conference.
Contextual football signifies additional importance.
Campbell began the week by reflecting on the situational errors from the weekend’s Wild Card matches to emphasize to his team the significance of situational football and the need for attention to detail.
“I believe they comprehend what is at risk,” Campbell stated. “I’m aware they viewed these matches this weekend and they observed that game last night.” Inevitably — I showed the team, truly, each game, highlighting various situations that arose, a glimpse of what occurred, and you examine what might have harmed the team, whether it’s a missed catch, a penalty, a circumstance, or anything else.
“They’re scattered throughout the week, and that’s what playoffs are,” Campbell stated. “It’s about that one additional play, simply performing your role in the intensity of the situation, and by doing so, you enhance your chances, otherwise, the opposing team will succeed.”
From the two NFC games on Sunday, Campbell had plenty of instances. In Washington’s win, the tide turned when Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield fumbled the ball deep in Tampa Bay’s territory after a failed handoff.
In the other game, the Packers fumbled the initial kickoff, quarterback Jordan Love threw three additional interceptions, and the team accrued eight penalties totaling 85 yards in their 22-10 defeat against the Eagles.
Peril of the dual-risk
There’s significant worry regarding how the Lions will deal with Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels’ agility, considering some of Detroit’s previous defensive challenges. However, Campbell swiftly highlighted that his team’s difficulties in managing dual-threat quarterbacks aren’t unique to them.
“I understand this; mobile quarterbacks are challenging,” Campbell stated. “They’re challenging to defend, and it’s as if someone informs you, ‘We struggle against running quarterbacks.'” Alright, let me know the team that does.
…When you’re attempting to handle (Ravens quarterback) Lamar (Jackson) and facing someone like him over there, or (Bills quarterback) Josh Allen, many teams find it challenging to contend with those players. They’re difficult to halt, and there’s a reason behind it. Alright, we understand we have a lot to deal with, but we’ll have a strategy set up; (defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn) AG will devise a great plan, our team will implement it, and you never know, (Daniels) might make a move. He might score a run or two. That’s simply how the game works and the manner in which certain players can navigate, but it doesn’t imply that you succeed in the game.
I inquired further about how the Lions have shaped their defensive lineup in response to the league’s shift towards dual-threat quarterbacks, highlighting that all four quarterbacks selected in the first round this year possess above-average mobility.
“I believe it’s a matter that often crosses your mind,” Campbell remarked. “You need to be able to gather these individuals, but I believe there’s also an element of discipline involved.” Consider this: the stronger your athletes are defensively, the more equipped you are to handle mobile quarterbacks. However, there is a discipline that must accompany it as well. I mean, you can’t hurry these players like you would someone who is simply a classic pocket passer.
“You need to be significantly more disciplined, and it’s considerably tougher,” Campbell stated. “Seriously, you truly must stay in your lane, you need to shut down, you have to keep pushing, you can’t take a risk, you really can’t.” That requires a tremendous level of discipline
Besides the scrambling, Commanders leverage the threat of Daniels’ running ability to include a significant amount of run-pass options in their offensive strategies. I inquired with Campbell about the importance of having veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone return to assist in diagnosing some of those schemes and communicating the adjustments to the rest of Detroit’s defense
“Listen, Alex will always lend a hand,” Campbell stated. “Bringing him back, I mean, just having him return the other day (against Minnesota) was incredibly beneficial.” One reason we performed well was that we played exceptionally strong defense. He is definitely one of those reasons. To regain him, the value he contributes as a player, but also his mental contributions — as he comprehends the game deeply, researches, will grasp this offense, understand their intentions, and can assist those around him. Indeed, having him around is beneficial.
Injury report
Campbell was inquired whether he developed a deeper appreciation for the No. 1 seed and the bye week after observing the physical strain some of the weekend’s games imposed on the players. For the coach, the calculations were easier.
“Honestly, the greatest benefit is that it’s one game fewer,” Campbell stated. “The odds suggest that’s one fewer game you need to play to reach your final objective.” That’s truly the advantage.
Regarding injuries, Campbell had minimal updates ahead of his players’ practice later in the week. He was inquired about the status of cornerback Terrion Arnold and guard Kevin Zeitler following their exit from the team’s Week 18 game against Minnesota.
“Fortunately, we experienced no injuries during the past three days, so I believe we’re fine,” Campbell joked. “I’ll have more information tomorrow regarding everyone’s situation, but honestly, I can’t provide you with a definitive answer after just three days off.” What I mean is that I’m aware everyone’s treatment has progressed positively, and we’ll wait to see what happens.
One player still expected to participate against the Commanders is running back David Montgomery.
“Getting him back will mean a lot,” Campbell stated. “Five plays a significant role in our lives.” He’s an integral part of our group, and for me, he’s a guiding force. He establishes the tone, serves as a catalyst, thus he has his role. There’s a spot for him here, so there will be a spot for him in this game. “It will be great to have him back.”
No updates regarding the interviews.
Campbell was inquired whether he consulted with his coordinators following the interviews that Ben Johnson and Glenn had for various positions this week. Once more, Campbell had little to give.
“Why would I be interested in knowing that?” Campbell joked. “Do you believe I want them to go?” Sure, I have a sense of how they are progressing. I haven’t dashed in there to inquire if they’re departing yet. I didn’t do that, but at some time today I’ll discuss with them what happened yesterday. At this moment, I’m simply preparing for Washington.
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