The legend of ‘Dan Gamble’: How fourth-down aggression became ‘tradition’ in Detroit

The Legend of ‘Dan Gamble’: How Fourth-Down Aggression Became ‘Tradition’ in Detroit

DETROIT — In the world of NFL coaching, where decisions are often scrutinized under a microscope, Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell has carved out a reputation for himself that is as bold as it is unconventional. Known affectionately as “Dan Gamble,” Campbell’s fearless approach to fourth-down situations has become a defining characteristic of his tenure with the Lions. This audacious strategy was on full display during a thrilling Week 14 matchup against the Green Bay Packers.

With the game tied at 31 and just 43 seconds left on the clock, the Lions found themselves facing a critical fourth-and-1 on the Green Bay 21-yard line. Conventional wisdom would suggest a safe field goal attempt, but Campbell had other plans. Quarterback Jared Goff took the snap, stumbled, and managed to hand off to running back David Montgomery, who surged forward for a 7-yard gain. This set up Jake Bates’ game-winning 35-yard field goal as time expired. It was the Lions’ fifth fourth-down attempt of the game, and their fourth successful conversion.

For most teams, such risk-taking would be extraordinary, but for Campbell’s Lions, it’s just another day at the office. Since Campbell’s arrival in 2021, the Lions have attempted fourth-down conversions at the highest rate in the NFL, a staggering 31.3%. This aggressive mindset hasn’t wavered, even after facing criticism for two failed fourth-down calls in last season’s NFC Championship Game loss to the San Francisco 49ers. As the Lions prepare for a rematch with the 49ers, Campbell’s bold philosophy remains the backbone of Detroit’s identity.

Building Trust and Confidence

Campbell’s approach is rooted in a deep trust in his players and coaches. “When you’re in it with these guys, and you’ve been around them long enough…,” Campbell said, reflecting on the win against the Packers. “There’s been enough time on task with those guys… that I felt good, and I felt like we’d find a way.”

While the risk is inherent, Campbell believes that with his team, the perceived risk is not as significant. The Lions argue that successful fourth-down conversions take a toll on opposing defenses, both physically and psychologically. For Detroit’s players, especially newcomers, these moments can be nerve-wracking, but over time, they’ve learned to embrace the challenge.

“It’s cool with me as long as it gives us another chance to keep scoring and get the ball, I’m with it,” said Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs. “Pretty much I think if it’s like fourth-and-5 and under, I think we’re pretty much gonna go for it. I do that on the (Madden) game so I ain’t got no problem with it.”

Statistics and Strategy

• Since Campbell took over in 2021, the Lions have attempted the most fourth-down conversions in the NFL, with 144 attempts.
• They have successfully converted 55.6% of these attempts, ranking 10th in the league over that span.

Campbell’s penchant for rolling the dice was evident early in his tenure. In a Week 4 loss to the Chicago Bears during his first season, Campbell controversially passed up two field goal attempts. Despite finishing that season with a 3-13-1 record, Campbell remained unapologetic about his decisions.

“I don’t regret any of them,” Campbell stated during a postgame news conference.

As the Lions’ record improved, Campbell’s aggressive approach persisted. In a Week 10 game against the Los Angeles Chargers last season, Campbell opted to go for it on a fourth-and-2 instead of kicking a field goal. The decision paid off, leading to a game-winning field goal as time expired.

Adapting to the Aggressive Mindset

For the Lions, this aggressive approach has become second nature. “For us, it’s traditional now. It’s what we do,” said Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. “But, being on this team for so long, you’re used to it. It’s the way we play football. … You already know before the game what the mindset’s gonna be. So it’s never a surprise going into any game. It’s fun.”

Veteran guard Graham Glasgow, who rejoined the Lions in 2023, initially found the fourth-down decisions surprising but has since adjusted. “We had one versus the Jaguars earlier this year where I was like, ‘All right, we’re gonna just take the points’ and we went for it, we got it and scored the touchdown and I was like, ‘Oh, my gosh,'” Glasgow said. “It really kind of demoralizes the defense.”

Opponents’ Perspective

Campbell’s approach presents unique challenges for opponents. San Francisco linebacker Fred Warner noted that Campbell’s strategy forces defenses to prepare for an extra down. “You do have to prepare your mind for that and just make sure you’re aware of that,” Warner said. “Because if you went out there thinking that it’s just going to be three plays and you’re out on the fourth-and-1, fourth-and-2, and you get surprised with it, then obviously you’re going to be in for a heck of a game.”

49ers coach Kyle Shanahan added that Campbell’s aggressiveness keeps opposing defenses on their toes. “Dan, with how aggressive he’s been, you’ve got to understand that anywhere on the field, whether it’s trick plays, whether it’s going for it, whether it’s special teams plays, everything is up.”

Learning from Past Experiences

Despite two failed fourth-down attempts in last season’s NFC title game against the 49ers, Campbell remains steadfast in his approach. “I don’t regret those decisions,” he said. However, the experience has influenced how he prepares the Lions for similar situations this season.

Since training camp, Campbell has emphasized attention to detail and execution under pressure, particularly on fourth downs. “This whole year, he’s been preparing this club for these types of moments,” said Lions running backs coach Scottie Montgomery. “Coaches, players, administration, everybody, we’re on the same page so we understand what’s going on.”

Campbell’s fearless style has earned buy-in from everyone in the organization. “When you look at Dan Campbell, you see a guy who’s very comfortable in his own skin,” said offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. “He’s not afraid to go away from the norm and deal with the consequences, good or bad, from it.”