After a 31-24 defeat to the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving Day, Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell acknowledged the team has “dug ourselves a little bit of a hole,” bringing their record to 7-5.
Campbell candidly addressed the team in the locker room, noting that the Lions’ chances of winning the NFC North for a third consecutive season are now significantly reduced. He emphasized the importance of focusing on correcting mistakes and preparing for the next game rather than dwelling on setbacks.
Injuries Challenge Lions, While Rookies and Veterans Step Up in Offensive Production
The Lions were already dealing with injuries to tight ends Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright, wide receiver Kalif Raymond, and starting center Graham Glasgow. The situation worsened when All-Pro receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown left the game in the first quarter with an ankle injury, which Campbell expects could sideline him for a week or two.
Lions’ Injury Woes and Fourth-Down Struggles Highlight Thanksgiving Loss to PackersDespite these challenges, Detroit’s offense saw contributions from practice squad player Tom Kennedy, who caught four passes for 36 yards, stepping up in St. Brown’s absence.
Rookie Isaac TeSlaa scored his third receiving touchdown of the season, helping narrow the Lions’ deficit to 24-21 in the third quarter. Meanwhile, fourth-year wide receiver Jameson Williams led the team with a career-high seven receptions for 144 yards and a touchdown.
Quarterback Jared Goff heavily targeted Williams, though he expressed regret over an incomplete short pass on a critical fourth-and-3 late in the game, which could have altered the outcome.
Lions Struggle on Fourth Downs Despite Solid Offensive Plan and Key Opportunities
Detroit has struggled in crucial fourth-down situations, failing twice against the Packers and going 0-for-7 since Week 11, the most attempts without a conversion in the NFL. Campbell, who took over offensive playcalling duties in Week 10, admitted there is room for improvement, particularly in converting third and fourth downs. These missed opportunities were pivotal in the loss against a strong Packers team.
Despite losing, Campbell expressed satisfaction with the offensive game plan, which aimed to maximize scoring opportunities despite an undermanned roster. The Lions entered the game averaging 29.6 points per game, but have now lost four of their past seven contests. Campbell highlighted that a few critical plays, especially in the first two series and on key conversions, ultimately determined the outcome against a competitive opponent.
