The Detroit Lions knew they were getting something special when David Montgomery came to town in 2023. But if you ask quarterback Jared Goff, he’s still scratching his head about how the Chicago Bears ever let him leave in the first place.
“I saw D-Mo from across the field for years in Chicago and I was shocked when they let him walk. When we landed him, I was like, ‘Holy smokes, we just got one of the best backs in the league,’” Goff said as quoted by NBC Sports.
Montgomery + Gibbs = A Dangerous Duo
Goff’s comments underline what’s become obvious for Lions fans: the combination of Montgomery and Gibbs gives Detroit one of the most balanced backfields in the NFL. Montgomery brings the toughness and downhill power while Gibbs brings speed, explosiveness, and versatility.
“You draft Gibbs and it’s like, ‘Wow, we have two of the best backs in the league,’” Goff said. “They feed off each other, they’re both incredibly hard-working and good players. The energy they feed off each other, one of them runs well and the other one wants to run well too. They’re as good as it gets.”
It’s no coincidence that Detroit’s rushing attack is near the top of the league this year. Offensive coordinator John Morton has leaned heavily on both runners, and it has given Jared Goff plenty of support in play-action situations.
Why the Bears’ Loss Was the Lions’ Gain
When Montgomery hit free agency after four seasons with Chicago, it raised some eyebrows that the Bears didn’t bring him back. For Detroit, though, it was a gift. Montgomery has fit perfectly into Dan Campbell’s smashmouth identity while still showing he can rip off explosive plays.
The running back’s leadership has also drawn praise from inside the building, where teammates describe him as one of the hardest workers on the roster. For Goff, having a veteran like Montgomery alongside a young star like Gibbs has made life much easier.
And judging by his tone, the quarterback still can’t believe his NFC North rival let it happen.
Bottom Line
The Bears’ decision to let David Montgomery walk may go down as one of the Lions’ biggest wins in free agency. And if Detroit continues to dominate on the ground, Goff’s “shock” will feel more like gratitude.
Jared Goff has stacked up a plethora of wins as an NFL quarterback, but the Detroit Lions’ 38-30 victory over the Ravens on Monday Night Football hit differently. For Goff, it wasn’t just another notch in the win column; it was one of the moments that define a team’s season.
“It was one of my favorites, I think, since I’ve been with the Lions,” Goff admitted Tuesday during his weekly spot on 97.1 The Ticket. “Just going on the road, Monday Night Football, it’s a really good team, raucous environment, really, really fun to get a win.”
Week 1 Doubts Still Linger
Detroit walked into Baltimore as 5.5-point underdogs, the heaviest line against them since Thanksgiving of 2022. The national talk was clear: the Lions had lost their top coordinators, shuffled the offensive line, and were going to take a step back.
That Week 1 loss to the Packers only made the critics louder. Goff didn’t ignore it. In fact, he embraced it.
“I think back two weeks ago, the sky was falling,” he said. “I won’t forget about that, everyone that thought we were done. And certainly we’ll remember that for the rest of the year and use it as a little motivation.”
Head coach Dan Campbell has called it “doom and gloom.” Goff sees it the same way. After a tough opener, the noise was real, but two straight statement wins have turned the mood in Detroit on its head.
Taking Shots at the Narrative
If there’s one thing Goff has mastered, it’s turning doubt into fuel. After the Week 1 loss, questions about first-year offensive coordinator John Morton were everywhere. But then the Lions dropped 52 on the Bears, and Goff couldn’t resist a smirk.
“You guys aren’t going to ask me about the coordinators this week? No, no, it’s OK. I was just wondering. I’m good,” he quipped on-air.
And when asked after beating the Ravens if it felt satisfying to silence the doubters, Goff walked a fine line:
“I don’t know if I’m looking to crush any narratives,” he said. “It’s fun to go on the road against a really good team and go win that game.”
Bigger Picture
Goff and Campbell may insist it’s not about outside voices, but both clearly hear them. And both clearly use them. For a team that’s won more games than anyone in the NFL over the last two and a half seasons, the idea they were “done” after one loss might feel absurd.
Still, Goff isn’t letting it go, and that’s exactly what Detroit fans should want.
The quarterback is keeping receipts. The Lions are stacking wins. And if the early-season chatter left any chip on Detroit’s shoulder, Goff just made it clear: it’s going to stay there all year.
The Detroit Lions went into Baltimore on Monday night and came away with a high-scoring victory, 38-30, over the Ravens.
The Lions moved to 2-1, while the Ravens are now 1-2 after faltering late in this game.
Being that these are two of the most explosive offenses in the NFL to start the new year, it was expected to be a shootout at M&T Bank Stadium, and that’s exactly what football fans got from the Ravens and Lions.
Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens during the first quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on Sept. 22, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.(Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images)
It was Detroit getting on the board first with its opening drive, going 11 plays and 67 yards with Jahmyr Gibbs finding the end zone for the first time on the night with a one-yard run. But the Ravens’ opening-drive script was even better thanks to their Pro Bowl running back.
Derrick Henry, who had just 23 yards rushing in the win over the Cleveland Browns last week, broke that mark with a 28-yard touchdown run to even the score after the extra point.
After punts by both teams on their next drives, the Lions found themselves on their own two-yard line late in the first quarter. Baltimore was hoping to make it a quick punt given the circumstances, but Detroit was simply better at the line of scrimmage as they stayed true to the run game and managed to go 98 yards in 18 plays for a touchdown.
It was David Montgomery, Gibbs’ counterpart in the backfield, punching it in to cap a drive that took just under 11 minutes of first-half clock off the board to make it 14-7.
It appeared momentum would totally be on the Lions’ sideline, especially after being able to stop the Ravens near the goal line on four tries to get a turnover on downs. However, Lamar Jackson and company were able to tie things at 14 apiece with 24 seconds left in the second quarter after Rashod Bateman was found wide open in the front of the end zone.
As the second half began, Baltimore got right to work, going 11 plays and 73 yards where Jackson threw a seed to tight end Mark Andrews for the touchdown lead. But just like in the first half, Detroit had the answer with a touchdown of their own, as Goff placed the ball perfectly to Amon-Ra St. Brown, who was streaking down the right sideline into the end zone.
David Montgomery of the Detroit Lions runs the ball against the Baltimore Ravens during the second quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on Sept. 22, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.(Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
At 21 apiece entering the fourth quarter, and both offenses clearly clicking, this game felt like it was going to come down to the wire. The Lions got their lead back after a gadget play on fourth-and-1 from the Baltimore four-yard line, as St. Brown flipped it back to Gibbs for the score.
The Ravens were able to get a field goal and a timely punt, as they had 8:31 left in the fourth quarter and a four-point deficit to overcome. But Henry fumbled on the first play, as Aidan Hutchinson punched the ball out from behind.
Luckily, a facemask penalty by a Lions offensive lineman stalled a potential game-sealing drive, with Detroit forced to have Jake Bates nail a field goal to get their seven-point lead back.
Jackson and the Ravens needed another answering score, but the Lions’ defense was relentless and forced a three-and-out as the defensive front just kept getting Jackson down to the turf – something we’re certainly not used to seeing.
The Lions were able to sack Jackson seven times, with Al-Quadin Muhammad getting 2.5, while Hutchinson, Derrick Barnes, Trevor Nowaske and Jack Campbell each tallied one.
Detroit had the opportunity to seal their victory after forcing the punt, and they didn’t just get necessary first downs. Montgomery, who led the game with 151 yards rushing on 12 carries went 31 yards to the house to make it a 38-24 game.
The Lions also went for it on fourth down the play prior to the score, with Goff placing another great pass for St. Brown to not only keep the drive going, but not give Jackson the ball at midfield. Goff finished the game 20-of-28 for 202 yards with St. Brown leading the Lions with 77 yards on seven catches.
Detroit also had 225 rushing yards, with Gibbs going for 67 on 22 carries while also catching five passes for 32 yards.
Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions celebrates after a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on Sept. 22, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.(Michael Owens/Getty Images)
For the Ravens, they had a touchdown drive with just seconds left on the clock, but it was too little too late in the end.
Jackson finished 21-of-27 for 288 yards with three touchdown passes, two of which going to Andrews who led the game with 91 receiving yards on six catches. Henry was held to just 50 yards on 12 carries as well.
The Detroit Lions haven’t even kicked off their Monday Night Football clash with the Baltimore Ravens yet, but oddsmakers are already peeking ahead to Week 4. And the early lines paint a pretty clear picture: Detroit is expected to roll.
According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the Lions have opened as 8.5-point favorites over the Cleveland Browns when the two teams meet next Sunday at Ford Field.
Why the Lions Are Favored
Detroit has lived up to its billing as one of the NFC’s top contenders. Jared Goff is orchestrating an offense that can light up the scoreboard, while Dan Campbell’s defense has shown improvement in key areas like red zone efficiency and takeaways. After throttling Chicago in Week 2, the Lions have shown the kind of balance that gives them staying power.
Meanwhile, Cleveland’s road has been far bumpier. The Browns stumbled out of the gate with back-to-back losses to the Bengals (17-16) and Ravens (41-17). Their offense sputtered in both games, and their defense couldn’t handle Baltimore’s physicality.
A Browns Turnaround in Week 3
But Cleveland showed some grit this past Sunday, pulling off a stunning 13-10 comeback win over the previously undefeated Green Bay Packers. The Browns scored 13 unanswered points in the fourth quarter, picked off Jordan Love late, blocked a field goal, and then capped it off with a walk-off 55-yard field goal to seal the win.
That victory likely saved their season from spiraling, but oddsmakers clearly aren’t convinced it means Cleveland can keep up with Detroit.
What’s Next
For now, all eyes are on Monday night when the Lions take on Lamar Jackson and the Ravens in one of the biggest games of the early season. But if Detroit keeps rolling, don’t be surprised to see that -8.5 line grow even larger by the time Cleveland rolls into town.
Detroit Lions rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa doesn’t just have one of the best stories in the NFL right now; he might also have the funniest nickname debate on social media.
After becoming the first player in recent memory to record his first two NFL catches as one-handed grabs, fans have been flooding Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit with suggestions for what to call him. And TeSlaa? He’s loving every second of it.
“My dad always called me ‘Tiger.’ ‘Tiger’ or ‘Buddy,’” TeSlaa said. “I don’t know, he just called me ‘Tiger.’ Just like a, yeah, like a buddy, a tiger.”
But Lions fans weren’t about to settle for something as tame as “Tiger.” With his sticky hands and flair for circus catches, TeSlaa has already been compared to some of the NFL’s most electric wideouts, and the nicknames prove it.
The Internet Gets Creative
Asked which social media nickname is his favorite, TeSlaa didn’t hesitate.
“I think ‘Vanilla-tron’ is probably my favorite one.”
That nickname, of course, pays homage to Calvin Johnson, the Hall of Famer known as “Megatron.” It’s lofty company for a rookie, but when your first two grabs look like something out of a video game, fans are going to run with it.
Still, TeSlaa has heard plenty of other gems.
“I heard ‘Snowdell Beckham Jr.’ today. That was pretty good,” TeSlaa admitted with a grin.
And then came perhaps the most creative one yet:
“Yeah, I heard ‘Odell Blanco Jr.’ They’re crazy.”
The comparisons to Odell Beckham Jr. make sense. Like OBJ, TeSlaa has already developed a knack for highlight-reel one-handers. The difference? Beckham’s iconic grab came years into his career, TeSlaa managed it in his very first NFL game.
A Rookie Winning Over Detroit
For a rookie wideout who grew up a Lions fan in Hudsonville, Mich., this moment is surreal. TeSlaa’s journey, from Hillsdale College, to Arkansas, to now catching touchdowns in a Detroit uniform, already feels like a Hollywood script. Add in the viral nickname debate, and he’s quickly becoming one of the Motor City’s most beloved young players.
And here’s the best part: he’s not just a one-handed highlight machine. Jared Goff has praised his toughness, intelligence, and attention to detail, saying TeSlaa “does everything right.” The nicknames are fun, but the Lions see him as much more than a novelty. He’s part of the future.
Nicknames aside, Isaac TeSlaa is already leaving his mark on Detroit and the NFL. Whether fans stick with “Vanilla-tron,” roll with “Snowdell Beckham Jr.,” or get even more creative, one thing is clear: TeSlaa has the talent and personality to be a fan favorite for years to come.
The Detroit Lions have been waiting for this moment. Monday Night Football. A national stage. A chance to prove they’ve grown since their last trip to Baltimore, a nightmare game in 2023 where the Ravens embarrassed them 38-6.
This time, it’s not just about showing up. It’s about redemption. Dan Campbell’s group has the toughness, the playmakers, and the motivation. But to pull off a win at M&T Bank Stadium, the Lions must execute with precision.
Here are the five keys in this week’s Grit Guide to knocking off the Ravens.
1. Start Fast — No Repeat of 2023
The last time Detroit played at M&T Bank Stadium, the game was over before it really began. Lamar Jackson scored four touchdowns in four possessions, while Detroit’s offense sputtered with two straight three-and-outs. By the time the Lions picked up a first down, they were already buried in a 28-0 hole.
This year, that can’t happen. The Lions don’t necessarily need a touchdown on the opening drive, but they do need to sustain possessions. A couple of first downs, a few runs from Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, and maybe a chain-moving grab from Amon-Ra St. Brown would go a long way in settling nerves. Keeping Lamar Jackson on the sideline early and avoiding another frantic start is priority number one.
2. Gang Tackle Derrick Henry
Stopping Derrick Henry isn’t a one-man job. At 6’2” and 252 pounds, the Ravens’ new battering ram running back is built to break arm tackles and run through defenders. Dan Campbell made it clear: if you want to slow Henry down, you need “population of the football.” That means 11 guys swarming to the ball every play.
The defensive line will set the tone, but this is where the linebackers and safeties must shine. Jack Campbell has the size and strength to meet Henry head-on, while Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph have to be sure tacklers in space. The goal isn’t just to stop Henr, it’s to stop his feet. If Detroit can force Henry to hesitate in the backfield, they’ll have a chance to bottle him up before he rumbles downhill.
If Henry gets rolling, Baltimore controls the tempo. If the Lions swarm him, they flip the script.
3. Contain Lamar Jackson, Don’t Chase Him
The temptation for edge rushers is always the same: pin your ears back and try to sack the quarterback. But with Lamar Jackson, that’s the worst thing you can do. Overpursue, and he slips through a crease for 20 yards. Lose contain, and he turns broken plays into highlight reels.
That’s why Aidan Hutchinson, Al-Quadin Muhammad, and possibly Marcus Davenport (if healthy) must be disciplined. Rushing in their lanes, collapsing the pocket without giving Jackson an escape hatch, is more important than tallying sacks. Campbell praised his defense for how they handled Caleb Williams in Week 2, but Lamar is a different level of problem.
Detroit gave itself a boost by signing Malik Cunningham to the practice squad. Cunningham, Jackson’s former Louisville teammate, has been mimicking Lamar in practice this week. That preparation should help the Lions’ defense understand the speed and unpredictability that’s coming on Monday night.
4. Feed Amon-Ra St. Brown Early and Often
When in doubt, get the ball to Amon-Ra St. Brown. The All-Pro wide receiver has become the heartbeat of Detroit’s passing game, and his chemistry with Jared Goff is as sharp as any QB-WR duo in the league.
St. Brown is especially valuable against Baltimore’s defense because of how he works the middle of the field. The Ravens’ linebackers and safeties will already be preoccupied with stopping Gibbs and Montgomery in the run game. That opens windows for St. Brown on crossing routes, slants, and in-breaking patterns. If he starts moving the chains early, the Ravens can’t load up the box.
And when Baltimore does adjust? That’s when guys like Jameson Williams and Sam LaPorta can exploit single coverage down the field. It all starts with St. Brown forcing the Ravens to respect every inch of the field.
5. Win the Turnover Battle
It’s cliché, but it’s also true: turnovers decide games. The Lions learned that lesson the hard way against Baltimore in 2023, when short fields only made a bad day worse. On the flip side, Detroit’s three takeaways against Chicago last week fueled their 52-point explosion.
The Lions need the same type of opportunistic defense on Monday. Whether it’s Hutchinson forcing a strip sack, Kerby Joseph jumping a route, or Branch knocking the ball loose in the open field, the Lions must flip possessions.
Baltimore’s offense is too good to give extra chances. If Detroit finishes with a +2 turnover margin, history says they’ll almost always walk away with a win.
The Ravens embarrassed Detroit the last time these two teams met. That memory still stings, and it’s fueling this week’s preparation. But this Lions team is built differently.
Follow the Grit Guide, start fast, swarm Henry, contain Lamar, feed St. Brown, and win the turnover battle, and Detroit won’t just compete. They’ll have every chance to walk out of Baltimore with a statement win on Monday Night Football.
Jared Goff keeps proving why he’s the steady hand leading the Detroit Lions’ offense. After his five-touchdown performance against the Chicago Bears, the NFL named him the NFC Offensive Player of the Week.
Goff Joins Exclusive Lions Company
This isn’t just another weekly honor, it moves Goff up the Lions’ record books. He now has four Offensive Player of the Week awards during his time in Detroit, tying him with Calvin Johnson Jr. for the second-most in team history. The only Lion ahead of them? Barry Sanders, who racked up an incredible 11 such awards between 1989 and 1998.
That’s not bad company. Sanders is a Hall of Famer, Johnson is a Hall of Famer, and Goff’s name now sits right beside them.
Why It Matters
The recognition highlights just how efficient and explosive Detroit’s offense has become under Goff. Against Chicago, he was nearly perfect, completing 23 of 28 passes for 334 yards, five touchdowns, and zero interceptions. With weapons like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Sam LaPorta, Goff has been able to distribute the ball with precision while leaning on the league’s top offensive line.
Dan Campbell often says the Lions’ identity starts in the trenches, but it’s Goff who brings that identity to life each week. His ability to run the offense with poise and accuracy has turned Detroit into a true NFC contender.
The Bottom Line
Jared Goff is playing the best football of his Lions career, and the awards are stacking up to prove it. Tying Calvin Johnson and inching closer to Barry Sanders’ franchise record puts Goff in legendary company. If he keeps this pace, it won’t be long before he’s rewriting more of Detroit’s history books.
There’s nothing quite like hearing Dan Miller call a Detroit Lions touchdown. His voice has become the soundtrack of Sundays in Detroit, full of energy, passion, and that signature punch that makes every big play feel even bigger.
In Week 2, the Lions gave him plenty to work with. From Jared Goff’s precision passing to Amon-Ra St. Brown’s highlight-reel touchdowns, Miller’s calls captured the electricity inside Ford Field during the Lions’ 52-21 win over the Chicago Bears.
Fans who were in the building already felt the roar. Now, you can relive it with Dan Miller’s best moments from Week 2, all packed into one clip.
The Detroit Lions didn’t just beat the Chicago Bears, they delivered a 52-21 masterpiece. Quarterback Jared Goff and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown stole the show, turning their connection into the kind of performance that Lions fans, and their head coach, won’t forget anytime soon.
On Monday, Dan Campbell used a phrase you rarely hear at a football press conference: he called their chemistry “an art form.”
“It’s an art form. So if you love art—I’m not saying I do or I don’t—but it’s awesome to watch,” Campbell said via Pride of Detroit. “They’ve got such a rapport with each other, and they trust each other immensely. Just the way that he runs his routes, and he’s so crisp, and he’s so detailed, and his body demeanor screams to Goff. It helps him anticipate the throws and they’ve just got so much time on task. He knows exactly what he’s going to do. And Saint knows exactly where the ball is going to be before he comes out of the break. They’ve just worked together for so long. Man, I’ve got a tremendous amount of trust in those two players. These guys are playing as good of football as you can play, and they have for a while.”
Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown Torch the Bears in Week 2
The stats tell the story:
Jared Goff: 23-of-28 passing, 334 yards, 5 touchdowns, 0 interceptions
Amon-Ra St. Brown: 9 receptions, 115 yards, 3 touchdowns
Goff was flawless, orchestrating Detroit’s offense with precision. St. Brown was his go-to weapon, carving up the Bears’ secondary with sharp routes and big-play finishes. Together, they made Chicago’s defense look completely overmatched.
Why the Goff–St. Brown Connection Is So Effective
Dan Campbell’s “art form” comment highlights what makes this duo special: timing and trust. St. Brown’s crisp routes and subtle body language allow Goff to release the ball before the break. By the time St. Brown turns, the ball is already in the perfect spot.
That’s not luck. That’s years of chemistry, practice, and belief in each other. Defenses may prepare for it, but stopping it is another challenge entirely.
What the Goff–St. Brown Duo Means for the Lions in 2025
Behind their offensive line’s bounce-back effort (just 2 pressures allowed all game) and a balanced ground attack from Jahmyr Gibbs (94 yards, 1 TD) and David Montgomery (57 yards, 1 TD), the Lions looked like a complete team.
But Goff and St. Brown are the engine. Their ability to dictate tempo, stretch drives, and finish in the red zone makes Detroit one of the most dangerous offenses in the NFL. If they stay healthy, this connection could be the difference between a playoff run and a Super Bowl push.
Dan Campbell’s “Art Form” Quote Proves Lions Have an Elite QB-WR Duo
Campbell wasn’t exaggerating. What Goff and St. Brown displayed against the Bears was more than execution, it was dominance. With five Goff touchdowns and three from St. Brown, Detroit’s leaders turned Ford Field into a canvas.
The bottom line? The Lions don’t just have a good quarterback-receiver duo. They have one of the NFL’s best, and their coach knows it.
Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goffisn’t spending a second worrying about the hot takes flying around after Detroit’s 27-13 loss to the Packers. While fans and media alike are questioning whether the Lions are still NFC contenders, Goff made it clear: the only opinions that matter are inside the locker room.
“Don’t care… we’ve heard noise from the outside before, is it anyone in this building? I don’t think so,” Goff said.
Blocking Out the Critics
This isn’t Goff’s first rodeo with critics. Since arriving in Detroit, he’s heard every narrative, from “bridge quarterback” to “system guy.” Yet all he’s done is guide the Lions to back-to-back NFC North titles and put up career-best numbers in 2024.
One shaky Week 1 performance? Goff’s not letting it shake the team’s confidence. In fact, his message echoes Dan Campbell’s own words earlier this week, that high expectations are a sign of progress, not a reason to panic.
Lessons from the Packers Game
Against Green Bay, the Lions offense didn’t look like its usual high-powered self. The running game sputtered, the offensive line communication broke down, and explosive plays were few and far between. Critics were quick to point out the loss of Ben Johnson and the debut of new OC John Morton as reasons for concern.
But Goff isn’t pressing the panic button. Much like Aidan Hutchinson reminded fans, the Lions have “a good history of responding to adversity.”
Why This Matters for Week 2
The Lions now turn their focus to Sunday’s home opener against the Chicago Bears, coached by their former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. It’s already shaping up to be an emotional showdown at Ford Field, with Amon-Ra St. Brown openly admitting he’s ready for the fans to “boo the hell” out of Johnson.
For Goff, though, it’s about shutting out the outside noise and cleaning up the little things, communication, execution, and fundamentals.
The Bottom Line
Jared Goff’s calm confidence should settle nerves in Detroit. One loss doesn’t define a season, and the Lions quarterback knows it. The only voices that matter are the ones inside Allen Park.
After Sunday’s frustrating 27-13 loss to the Packers, Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Gofftook a moment to reflect on where things stand offensively under new leadership. His message? Growing pains are part of the deal, but that doesn’t mean the Lions can’t still be great right now.
“Anytime you’re with a coordinator for the first year, it’s the first year of the coordinator,” Goff said after the game. “And that doesn’t mean we can’t be great right now; we should be great right now. But there are hurdles you’re going to have to face and improve on.”
Adjusting to John Morton’s System
The Lions’ offense looked out of sync against Green Bay, particularly in the red zone where they settled for field goals instead of touchdowns. Goff’s words point directly to the challenge of adjusting to new offensive coordinator John Morton’s system. Timing, rhythm, and chemistry don’t come overnight, even for a veteran quarterback and a unit that still features big names like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Sam LaPorta.
Goff didn’t use that as an excuse, though, he emphasized that Detroit still expects to play at a high level, regardless of how new the system is.
The Road Ahead
The Lions will have a chance to bounce back quickly when they host the Chicago Bears in Week 2. For Goff and the offense, that means cleaning up communication, executing better in the red zone, and finding the explosive plays that were missing in Week 1.
Bottom line: Goff knows the hurdles are there. The difference between another frustrating week and a bounce-back win at Ford Field will be how quickly the Lions can clear them.
The Detroit Lions kicked off the 2025 season with expectations of building on their 15-2 campaign a year ago. Instead, they walked out of Lambeau Field with more questions than answers after a 27-13 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Head coach Dan Campbell didn’t sugarcoat the performance when he spoke with the media after the game.
Campbell Owns the Mistakes
“I thought we would be cleaner than we were,” Campbell said postgame. “I thought we would be much cleaner than we were. Our players are accountable… nobody takes it worse than they do. We’ve got some good dudes.”
The Lions stumbled out of the gate, allowing the Packers to march 83 yards on the opening possession for a touchdown. Detroit’s defense never found a way to rattle Jordan Love, who calmly completed 16-of-22 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns. Meanwhile, the Lions’ vaunted pass rush finished with zero sacks and only one pass defense (by cornerback Terrion Arnold, who later left with a groin injury).
Offense Falls Flat
On offense, the Lions struggled to capitalize in the red zone, settling for field goals on three of their first four trips. Quarterback Jared Goff was efficient but uninspiring, completing 31-of-39 passes for 224 yards, one touchdown, and a costly interception.
Detroit’s ground game, a strength in 2024, was bottled up completely. Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery combined for just 44 yards on 20 carries, averaging 2.2 yards per attempt. Gibbs did manage to lead the team in receptions with 10 catches, but they went for a modest 31 yards.
The lone bright spot came late in the game when rookie Isaac TeSlaa hauled in a spectacular one-handed touchdown catch, preventing Detroit from being shut out of the end zone until the final minute.
Discipline Issues and Missed Opportunities
If the offense’s inefficiency wasn’t frustrating enough, penalties wiped away two potential game-changing plays. Linebacker Alex Anzalone dropped a would-be interception, and one play later, safety Brian Branch had a pick-six negated by a defensive holding call on Rock Ya-Sin. On the same return, Aidan Hutchinson was flagged for unnecessary roughness.
Those miscues summed up the night for Detroit — a team that never seemed comfortable against a Packers squad that looked every bit like an NFC North contender with new addition Micah Parsons wreaking havoc.
Campbell’s Message Moving Forward
Despite the mistakes, Campbell made it clear he still believes in his locker room.
“Our players are accountable,” Campbell emphasized. “Nobody takes it worse than they do. We’ve got some good dudes.”
The Lions will need those “good dudes” to rebound quickly. Their next challenge comes against former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears, who visit Ford Field in Week 2. A bounce-back performance will be crucial to quiet doubters and prevent Detroit from digging an early-season hole.
Well, that was ugly. The Detroit Lions came into Lambeau Field on Sunday looking to defend their back-to-back NFC North titles, but instead they walked out looking like a team still figuring out who they are. The Green Bay Packers, now armed with new star pass rusher Micah Parsons, punched Detroit in the mouth early and never looked back, cruising to a 27-13 win in Week 1.
Green Bay Throws the First Punch
The Packers wasted no time setting the tone. After the Lions deferred, Jordan Love led an 83-yard opening drive that ended with a 15-yard touchdown to Tucker Kraft. By halftime, Detroit was already in a two-touchdown hole, thanks in part to Jared Goff throwing a brutal red-zone interception when it looked like the Lions were finally finding some rhythm.
And that was the story of the day. The Lions had three chances in the red zone before halftime. Instead of touchdowns, they came away with two Jake Bates field goals and that costly pick. For a team that’s been one of the league’s best inside the 20 the past three years, it was jarring to watch them stall out so often.
Offense Can’t Find Its Groove
John Morton’s debut as offensive coordinator didn’t inspire much confidence. Jared Goff completed a ton of passes, 31-of-39 for 224 yards, but most of it was dink-and-dunk stuff that never threatened the Packers downfield.
The run game? Non-existent. Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery combined for just 44 yards on 20 carries. Gibbs did catch 10 passes, but they only went for 31 yards. That’s not the explosive punch Detroit fans were hoping for.
At least rookie wideout Isaac TeSlaa gave fans something to cheer about (CLICK HERE TO SEE THE VIDEO). In the final minute, he pulled off a ridiculous one-handed touchdown grab to break up what would’ve been Detroit’s first game without a TD since 2022.
Defense Has No Answers
On the other side of the ball, things weren’t much better. The Lions’ defense couldn’t lay a finger on Jordan Love all game, not a single sack. Love looked calm, cool, and collected, finishing 16-of-22 for 188 yards and two touchdowns.
And while Micah Parsons didn’t rack up a sack in his Packers debut (Correction: Parsons did pick up a late sack), his presence was felt. Detroit’s offensive line looked overwhelmed trying to account for him, which only freed up everyone else.
To make matters worse, second-year corner Terrion Arnold left the game with a groin injury. And even when Detroit looked like it had finally caught a break, a Brian Branch pick-six, it was wiped out by penalties. That kind of day.
The Big Picture
So, where does this leave the Lions? It’s only Week 1, but there’s no sugarcoating this one, they got outplayed and outcoached. New coordinators John Morton and Kelvin Sheppard are going to be under the microscope after a sloppy debut, and the offensive line still looks like it needs time to gel.
Detroit’s three-game win streak in Green Bay is over, and their grip on the NFC North doesn’t feel nearly as tight as it did a week ago.
The Lions will try to bounce back next week at Ford Field against a familiar face, former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears. That game suddenly feels pretty important.
Micah Parsons hasn’t even suited up for a regular-season snap with the Green Bay Packers, and already, he’s taking shots at the Detroit Lions.
The All-Pro pass rusher, acquired in a blockbuster trade just 10 days ago, was asked Thursday about making his Packers debut in a rivalry game against Detroit. His answer? Straight heat.
For Lions fans, this is nothing new. Detroit has gone from a punchline to one of the NFL’s heavyweights under Dan Campbell, and with that rise comes some jealousy, and plenty of bulletin board material.
Parsons explained that his dislike for Detroit stemmed from his time in Dallas, where the Cowboys and Lions squared off three years in a row.
“It was just always a heavyweight fight every time they came in,” Parsons said. “They kinda got our guys when I was injured last year – the whole team was injured.”
That “fight” turned into a knockout blow the last time the two sides met. Detroit throttled the Cowboys 47-9 in Week 6 of 2024. Jared Goff was untouchable that day, completing 18 of 25 passes for 315 yards and three touchdowns.
Detroit’s Response? Handle Business
From a Detroit perspective, Parsons’ comments are more entertaining than threatening. The Lions have won six of their last seven games against the Packers, and if Parsons wants to dive into this NFC North rivalry with bad blood, Campbell’s crew will gladly oblige.
Parsons may not “like” Detroit, but if Week 1 goes the way recent history suggests, he’ll have no choice but to respect them.
Beathard, 31, brings six years of NFL experience to Detroit, having previously suited up for the San Francisco 49ers and Jacksonville Jaguars. A third-round pick out of Iowa in 2017, he has started 13 career games, throwing for 3,886 yards and 19 touchdowns.
The Lions currently have Jared Goff entrenched as the starter and Kyle Allen as his backup. Adding Beathard provides much-needed depth and insurance at the most important position on the roster.
For Detroit, this move ensures extra security heading into Week 1 against the Green Bay Packers, especially given the uncertainty that comes when teams carry only two quarterbacks on the active roster.
The Detroit Lions have unveiled their unofficial depth chart ahead of Sunday’s Week 1 clash against the Green Bay Packers. Compiled by the team’s Public Relations staff, the chart offers a glimpse at how the roster is expected to line up when the Lions head to Lambeau Field.
Offense
Jared Goff holds his spot under center, with Kyle Allen listed as the backup. At running back, David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs are the primary options, with Craig Reynolds and rookie Sione Vaki providing depth.
The receiving corps is highlighted by Jameson Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown, while veteran Kalif Raymond and rookie Isaac TeSlaa round out the group. At tight end, Sam LaPorta leads the way with Brock Wright and Shane Zylstra behind him.
In the trenches, Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell bookend an offensive line that features Graham Glasgow at center, rookie Tate Ratledge at right guard, and Christian Mahogany at left guard.
Defense
On defense, Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport headline the edge rushers, with rookie Tyleik Williams and veteran DJ Reader anchoring the interior. The linebacker unit is led by Jack Campbell and Alex Anzalone, with Derrick Barnes expected to see significant snaps.
In the secondary, D.J. Reed and Terrion Arnold are listed as starting corners, with Amik Robertson handling nickel duties. At safety, Pro Bowler Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph start, supported by depth from Daniel Thomas and Thomas Harper.
Specialists
Special teams remain steady, with Jake Bates handling kicking duties, Jack Fox returning as punter, and Grant Stuard listed as the primary long snapper. Craig Reynolds and Stuard are also listed among return specialists.
Here is the full depth chart:
While unofficial, this depth chart provides the clearest preview yet of how Detroit plans to open its season in a highly anticipated divisional showdown with Green Bay.
Leadership matters as much as talent, and theDetroit Lionsjust made it official: six players have been chosen as team captains for the 2025 NFL season. After a 15-2 campaign in 2024 and sky-high expectations entering 2025, these captains represent the heartbeat of a roster built on grit, accountability, and a win-now mentality.
The Lead
The Lions announced their 2025 captains on Monday:
It’s a mix of stars, veterans, and glue guys, exactly the type of leadership core Dan Campbell has emphasized since he took over.
Jared Goff: The Steady Hand
Jared Goff has been the calming presence in Detroit’s locker room since his arrival. Coming off a 2024 campaign where he threw for over 4,600 yards and 37 touchdowns, he remains the engine of the league’s top-scoring offense. His captaincy is as much about poise and decision-making as it is about production.
Amon-Ra St. Brown: The Heartbeat
No surprise here. Amon-Ra St. Brown has become the emotional spark for the Lions’ offense. His fiery competitiveness, relentless preparation, and big-game production (115 catches, 1,263 yards, 12 TDs in 2024) make him a natural leader. St. Brown embodies Campbell’s “grit” mantra.
Penei Sewell: The Enforcer
Penei Sewell is one of the best tackles in football and the undisputed anchor of Detroit’s offensive line. His leadership extends beyond the trenches; he sets the tone with toughness, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to protecting Goff’s blindside.
Aidan Hutchinson: The Face of the Defense
Aidan Hutchinson’s presence as a captain cements him as the Lions’ defensive cornerstone. Even after an injury-shortened 2024, Hutchinson’s work ethic and intensity make him the natural voice of the defense. With Kelvin Sheppard now leading the defense as coordinator, Hutchinson’s role as a bridge between coach and players is massive.
Alex Anzalone: The Veteran Voice
The long-haired linebacker has been Campbell’s extension on the field for years. Alex Anzalone is one of the most trusted communicators on defense, making sure the unit stays aligned and disciplined. His leadership isn’t flashy, but it’s steady, and the younger linebackers look to him for guidance.
Grant Stuard: The Special Teams Warrior
Every successful team has a player like Grant Stuard, a relentless worker who makes his presence felt on every kick and coverage unit. Stuard’s captaincy shows the Lions value all three phases, and his recognition is a nod to the toughness and energy he brings daily.
The Bigger Picture
Detroit’s captains aren’t just stars, they’re culture carriers. From Goff’s calm leadership to St. Brown’s fiery passion, Sewell’s physical dominance, Hutchinson’s defensive anchor role, Anzalone’s steady presence, and Stuard’s all-out effort, this group perfectly reflects the Lions’ identity.
The Lions are no longer the NFL’s underdogs. They’re contenders. And in a season where expectations are higher than ever, these six captains will be charged with keeping Detroit focused, grounded, and hungry.
The Bottom Line
The Lions’ 2025 captains aren’t just names on a list, they’re the pillars of a locker room chasing a Super Bowl. Campbell has his leaders. Now, it’s time to see if they can guide Detroit to the NFL’s biggest stage.
The Detroit Lions finalized their 53-man roster and 16-man practice squad last week, and one thing stood out: only two quarterbacks made the cut. With Jared Goff entrenched as the starter and Kyle Allen as the backup, the team is leaving the door open for a third signal-caller.
General manager Brad Holmes has already said the plan is to eventually add another quarterback. On Monday, Dan Campbell gave a little more clarity on what the Lions are looking for in that role.
The Lead
When asked if the team preferred a veteran or a developmental option, Campbell didn’t hesitate.
“I would say we’re looking for somebody (that) if we need them, we know they can run the show,” Campbell said as quoted by the Detroit Football Network. “You know, they can run the offense, they can process the information. I think (we need that) more than can we find a guy to develop, that’s unknown, all those (things)? I’d rather have a guy, certainly, we’re familiar with, or somebody you just know that they get in the game, they’ll get you in the right play, be smart with the football and all those things.”
The Main Points
Experience Over Experiment
Campbell’s comments make it clear: the Lions aren’t looking for a project right now. They want a steady hand who can keep the offense functional if disaster strikes. That’s not a knock on developmental quarterbacks, but this team is in win-now mode. After a 15-2 season in 2024 and Super Bowl aspirations in 2025, the margin for error is razor-thin.
Why a Veteran Makes Sense
A veteran QB brings immediate stability and understanding of NFL defenses.
With Goff in his prime, the Lions don’t need a prospect to groom. They need insurance.
The right fit would be someone who knows how to manage a game, protect the football, and execute Ben Johnson’s (now John Morton’s) offensive system if called upon.
Who Could Fit the Bill?
While Campbell didn’t name names, there are always experienced quarterbacks floating around the market. Think of the journeyman type who has started games in the league, bounced around rosters, and can step in without needing a crash course.
It’s the classic “break glass in case of emergency” quarterback role, one that doesn’t make headlines but can save a season if disaster strikes.
The Bigger Picture
The Lions have built a contender by valuing reliability, toughness, and execution. That same philosophy is guiding their quarterback search. Campbell doesn’t want a “what if” player. He wants a “when needed, he’s ready” player.
Detroit has proven it can play with anyone, but if Goff goes down for even a short stretch, having the right third quarterback could be the difference between staying on track for January football or stumbling at the wrong time.
The Bottom Line
Dan Campbell has no interest in carrying a developmental project at quarterback. The Lions are looking for someone with experience, someone who can step in and “run the show” if called upon. For a team with championship goals, that kind of stability isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.
The Detroit Lions enter the 2025 season with only two quarterbacks on the roster: Jared Goff and Kyle Allen. Normally, that’s all you need. But what if both went down in the same game? NFL rules allow teams to designate an emergency QB from another position, and in Detroit’s case, the Lions have a few intriguing options.
David Montgomery: The Safe Pick
If the Lions were ever forced into this situation, the most realistic choice would be David Montgomery.
Montgomery already has experience in wildcat formations, taking direct snaps and powering forward.
Detroit likely wouldn’t try to throw much without a true quarterback, instead relying on safe handoffs, simple option looks, and Montgomery’s tough running style to grind out possessions.
His vision and ability to pick up tough yards make him the “steady hands” option in what would be a chaotic scenario.
In other words, if you’re protecting the football and trying to survive until the final whistle, Montgomery is the guy you trust.
Amon-Ra St. Brown: The Trick-Play Option
That said, Amon-Ra St. Brown could still get a look.
He’s already been used in trick plays and has shown some ability to throw.
With his football IQ and leadership, he’d be capable of managing a simplified passing game if Detroit wanted to take a shot or two downfield.
Still, given the stakes of an emergency situation, St. Brown’s role would probably be limited to one or two surprise throws rather than running the full offense.
Kalif Raymond: The Wildcard
If the Lions wanted to inject speed and creativity, Kalif Raymond is another candidate.
Known for his gadget-play usage, Raymond has the quickness to make things interesting.
He could run wildcat-style packages, relying on jet sweeps, misdirection, and quick-hitting plays to keep defenses on their toes.
While not a passer, his athleticism could give Detroit a spark in short bursts.
The Bottom Line
In reality, the Lions would do everything possible to avoid reaching this point. But if both Jared Goff and Kyle Allen were sidelined, expect David Montgomery to be the most-likely emergency quarterback.
St. Brown and Raymond could sprinkle in gadget plays, but Montgomery’s ability to run the football, protect possessions, and manage the game makes him the safest bet.
The NFL’s Week 1 matchup between the Detroit Lions and the Green Bay Packers just got a lot more intriguing, and a lot more expensive for Lions backers.
Prior to Thursday’s stunning trade that sent Pro Bowl linebacker Micah Parsons from the Dallas Cowboys to the Packers, oddsmakers at DraftKings had Green Bay as a slim 1.5-point favorite over Detroit. But once the deal was made official, the line shifted quickly.
Currently, the Packers are listed as 2.5-point favorites against the Lions.
Why the Shift?
Sportsbooks don’t often move a line a full point unless it’s tied to something major, like an injury to a star quarterback, or in this case, the acquisition of one of the league’s most disruptive defenders.
Micah Parsons, widely regarded as a top-three defensive player in the NFL, brings game-changing speed and pass-rush ability. For Detroit, that means Jared Goff and the offensive line, already tasked with slowing down Green Bay’s front seven, just inherited an even tougher assignment.
The Bigger Picture
The Lions entered the 2025 season with Super Bowl aspirations after a 15-2 campaign a year ago. But their divisional opener against the Packers was always going to be a test. Now, with Parsons wearing green and gold, the stakes feel even higher.
If Parsons makes an immediate impact, this spread may not be done moving.
The Bottom Line
The Micah Parsons trade didn’t just shake up the NFC North on the field, it shook up the sportsbooks too. Lions fans will argue Detroit’s offensive line, anchored by Penei Sewell, is still good enough to neutralize Parsons. Packers fans will say he’s the missing piece to their defensive puzzle.
Either way, Week 1 just became must-watch football.
