Brief
Dan Campbell vows to end Lions’ defensive mediocrity after 32-26 loss
Campbell promises a higher floor for Detroit’s defense as the team heads to Arizona.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell told 97.1 The Ticket on Tuesday that the defense will not "accept mediocrity" after a 32-26 defeat to the Carolina Panthers and three games in which it surrendered more than 400 yards.
Campbell said, "We're going to give some other guys an opportunity, and go, man. But we're not going to accept mediocrity. That's not what we're doing here." He added that the team has "too many guys playing at a high level" and will raise the floor.
The Lions are allowing 423.8 yards per game, 31.5 yards more than the Indianapolis Colts, and rank 28th in success rate. Their best defensive showing came in Week 3 against the New York Jets, when they gave up 24 points and 335 yards.
Statistically, Detroit ranks fourth in pass‑rush win rate and second in the league with 15 sacks, thanks in part to Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeil. However, the secondary remains a weakness.
Detroit travels to Arizona next week to face the Cardinals, with a Week 6 bye offering a chance for a "soft reset" of the defense.
Key facts
- The Lions have allowed more than 400 yards in three of their first four games, averaging 423.8 yards per game. (bleacherreport.com)
- Dan Campbell said the team will not "accept mediocrity" regarding its defense. (bleacherreport.com)
- Detroit ranks fourth in pass‑rush win rate and second in the league with 15 sacks. (bleacherreport.com)
- The Lions' best defensive performance was Week 3 versus the New York Jets, allowing 24 points and 335 yards. (bleacherreport.com)
- The team heads to Arizona to play the Cardinals before a Week 6 bye. (bleacherreport.com)
Sources
- [1] bleacherreport.com — originally reported as “Dan Campbell Sounds Off on Lions' Defensive Struggles, 'Not Going to Accept Mediocrity'”
