After the Detroit Lions faced off against the Green Bay Packers, head coach Dan Campbell discussed safety Brian Branch’s controversial ejection.
The decision to eject Branch for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Packers receiver Bo Melton received mixed reactions from fans and analysts. Campbell shared his view on the situation.
Campbell’s Reaction to the Ejection
In his post-game comments, Campbell acknowledged that the decision wasn’t his to make, saying, “Yeah, look, you know that’s not up to me,” as quoted by SI. “The only explanation I got was that those guys (the refs) did a great job, Clete (Blakeman) and the crew.
I have a lot of respect for what they do, and they just said it came from New York, so that’s all I have on it.” His remarks conveyed respect for the officiating crew while noting the decision originated from the league’s main office.
The ejection was a unique experience for Campbell, who said, “That’s the first time I’ve ever been a part of something like that as a head coach, where someone got ejected. So I didn’t see it. I don’t know.” This moment highlighted the unpredictability of NFL officiating.
Lessons for Branch
When asked what Branch could learn, Campbell stressed the need to adjust to league standards. “I have to see it. I don’t know. I assume he hit with his head. Try to lower your target to avoid that, but I don’t want to take away his aggressiveness or the skills that make him who he is,” he said.
Campbell also noted the effect of Branch’s absence, stating, “It doesn’t help us when he isn’t available. I’d tell him to lower it, and he has to get used to that, especially in primetime games. New York looks at these.
They don’t pay as much attention to the one o’clock games. In primetime, they will. He needs to understand that, and we’ll get through it. He’ll be fine.”
As the Lions move forward, Campbell’s thoughts on Branch’s ejection offer key insights for the young safety as he navigates the expectations of high-level play. Now, the Lions must adapt to playing without a crucial defensive piece while continuing their push in the NFC North.
