Penei Sewell’s Determination Fuels Lions’ Super Bowl Ambitions
DETROIT — The end of the 2023 season left a bitter taste for the Detroit Lions, and no one feels it more than Penei Sewell. The All-Pro offensive tackle has been haunted by the Lions’ crushing loss to the San Francisco 49ers, where they squandered a 17-point halftime lead, missing out on their first Super Bowl appearance. Sewell admits to replaying that game at least 10 times during the offseason, a testament to how deeply it affected him.
Drafted seventh overall in the 2021 NFL draft from Oregon, Sewell, now 24, has become a cornerstone for a Lions team that achieved a 15-2 record, setting a franchise record for regular-season victories. This remarkable turnaround is, according to Sewell, a direct response to last season’s playoff disappointment. The Lions also secured their first 1-seed, a significant milestone for the team.
Sewell’s leadership extends beyond his on-field prowess. Known for his passionate pregame speeches and aggressive play style, he has been named a team captain. This season, he played 1,115 offensive snaps, tying with Cleveland Browns guard Joel Bitonio for the most among all offensive linemen. Despite the high number of plays, Sewell allowed only five sacks, tying with guard Kevin Zeitler for the second fewest among Lions offensive linemen.
With heightened expectations for 2024, Sewell and his teammates are laser-focused on achieving the ultimate goal: a Super Bowl title. In an exclusive interview, Sewell shared insights into last season’s heartbreak, its impact on the team, and their approach to this year’s playoff journey, which kicks off Saturday night against the Washington Commanders in the NFC divisional round at Ford Field (8 p.m. ET, Fox).
Reflecting on the 2023 NFC Title Game Loss
Sewell’s mindset after the 2023 NFC Championship Game was straightforward: “It’s on. Simple as that.” The loss to San Francisco was a constant presence in his mind, something he couldn’t shake off. “Every time [my] kids went down for a nap, I was just like, ‘I’ve got to watch it to see what happened,'” Sewell confessed. He spent the offseason analyzing the game, both from a player’s and a fan’s perspective, channeling the emotions into motivation.
Entering the 2024 Season with Renewed Focus
Determined to reach the top, Sewell entered the 2024 season with a clear vision. “When I said those words ‘it’s on,’ I just knew what it looked like coming back and then doing it all over again, but this time going to the top with it,” he explained. The team learned from the 49ers’ loss, understanding the importance of maintaining composure in high-stakes games. Sewell engaged in conversations with teammates to ensure everyone was on the same page, ready to make a statement.
Recognizing the Team’s Potential
From the first week of camp, Sewell sensed something special about the team. “Offensively, we were all more comfortable with the playbook,” he noted. The camaraderie among players, including newcomers like David Montgomery, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Sam LaPorta, strengthened, forming a true brotherhood.
The Importance of Securing the Top Seed
Securing the No. 1 seed was a goal set at the season’s start. “Coach Dan Campbell preached it throughout camp about how important that was for us,” Sewell said. The team knew that achieving this would set them up for success, and they were committed to following Campbell’s guidance.
Supporting Coach Campbell Amid Criticism
Despite criticism for his fourth-down calls during the 2023 NFC title game, Sewell stood by Coach Campbell. “At the end of the day, coaches and players, we’re all in the same boat,” he emphasized. Sewell believes in taking accountability as players to execute the coach’s decisions.
Reflecting on Personal Success
Named All-Pro for the second time, Sewell remains focused on the bigger picture. “Even with all the success, to be honest, I haven’t done a lot of reflecting on the season that we’ve had. I’m locked in. We’re trying to go all the way,” he stated. His primary goal is the Super Bowl, and personal accolades are secondary.
Envisioning a Super Bowl Victory
Sewell is confident in the Lions’ potential to win a Super Bowl. “I can definitely see a Super Bowl. I saw it from the moment in camp,” he said. The team’s execution and game planning have reinforced his belief in their capabilities.
Balancing Time Off with Playoff Preparation
With the first-round bye, Sewell took time to relax with his family before refocusing on football. “We needed that rest,” he admitted, acknowledging the benefits of the break for both physical and mental recovery.
A Message to Detroit Fans
As the Lions prepare for the playoffs, Sewell has a message for Detroit fans: “Just be yourself. Be Detroit. If you talk, talk. If you’re just rowdy, be rowdy.” He wants fans to embrace their passion and support the team as they aim to bring pride to the city.
- Reflecting on the 2023 NFC title game loss
- Entering the 2024 season with renewed focus
- Recognizing the team’s potential
- The importance of securing the top seed
- Supporting Coach Campbell amid criticism
- Reflecting on personal success
- Envisioning a Super Bowl victory
- Balancing time off with playoff preparation
- A message to Detroit fans
Originally Written by: Eric Woodyard
