Detroit Lions’ Coach Dan Campbell Reflects on the Value of a Loss

Detroit Lions’ Coach Dan Campbell Reflects on the Value of a Loss

Dec 17, 2024, 12:56 PM ET

In the world of professional sports, particularly in the NFL, the concept of a “good loss” is often dismissed. However, Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell is challenging this notion, suggesting that sometimes a defeat can be beneficial, especially when it comes at the right time. This perspective emerged following the Lions’ recent 48-42 loss to the Buffalo Bills, which ended their impressive 11-game winning streak.

Campbell, known for his candid and colorful expressions, shared his thoughts during an interview with Detroit radio station 97.1 The Ticket. “What happens is, you get used to eating filet. And I’m talking all of us. And everything’s good. Life’s good, you know?” he said. “But you forgot what it was like when you had nothing and you ate your f—ing molded bread. And it was just fine. And it gave you everything you needed. And sometimes you gotta get punched in the mouth and remember what it used to be like to really appreciate where you are. And we’ll do that.”

“What happens is, you get used to eating filet. And I’m talking all of us. And everything’s good. Life’s good, you know? But you forgot what it was like when you had nothing and you ate your f—ing molded bread. And it was just fine. And it gave you everything you needed. And sometimes you gotta get punched in the mouth and remember what it used to be like to really appreciate where you are.” Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions coach

The loss to the Bills was not just a blow to the Lions’ winning streak but also came with significant injuries. Running back David Montgomery, cornerback Carlton Davis III, and defensive tackle Alim McNeill all suffered season-ending injuries. Campbell mentioned that Davis, who underwent surgery for a broken jaw, might return during the postseason, depending on his recovery progress.

Despite these setbacks, Campbell remains optimistic. “And so, we got bad tastes in our mouth, we got kicked around the other day. We lost a few guys. And you know what? It’s exactly what we needed,” he stated. “This is exactly what we needed. So we’re going to bounce back. We’re going to respond. We got guys who are about to have an unbelievable opportunity here. And we will play the game any way needed to win.”

Campbell’s confidence in his team is unwavering. “We still got a good offense. We got plenty of defensive players. I can go rattle them off right now. We’re gonna put the best 11 on the field. We’re gonna freakin’ cut it loose, We’re gonna play with our special teams. And I don’t give a crap if we have to win by one point for the rest of the year, that’s what we’re gonna do. And I’m gonna be happy about it. We come out of the game with 50 yards of total offense and we win by one, you’re gonna see smiles on my face, I promise you. If it’s the other way defensively, we give up 700 yards and we win by one point, you’re gonna see a f—ing smile from my ear to ear. I promise you.”

Looking ahead, the Lions (12-2) are set to face the Chicago Bears on Sunday. This game is a rematch of their Thanksgiving Day clash, which ended in a 23-20 victory for the Lions and led to the firing of Bears’ head coach Matt Eberflus. The Bears are currently enduring an eight-game losing streak.

Despite the recent loss, the Lions have already secured a playoff spot and are still in contention for the top spot in the NFC, which would grant them a bye and home-field advantage. Their upcoming schedule includes a trip to San Francisco for a Monday night game on Dec. 30, followed by a potentially decisive game against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 18.

Campbell acknowledged the absence of Montgomery, describing him as an irreplaceable “hard-nosed, red zone machine.” However, there is hope for reinforcements in the secondary. Ifeatu Melifonwu, who has been sidelined due to an Achilles injury and a broken finger, might soon return to practice. Additionally, rookie cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. is recovering from a hamstring injury and could be back in action soon.

Star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who underwent surgery in October for a fractured tibia and fibula, remains hopeful for a return if the Lions make it to the Super Bowl.

In Campbell’s words, “We’re gonna find a way. And we’re gonna get it done.”