Monday night’s matchup between the Detroit Lions and Baltimore Ravens was a tug-of-war until Detroit sealed the victory with a bold fourth-and-2 conversion coming out of the two-minute warning. With the game hanging in the balance, Jared Goff connected with Amon-Ra St. Brown, a play that reflected the trust head coach Dan Campbell has in his quarterback and star receiver.
Defensively, Detroit tormented Lamar Jackson all evening, bringing him down seven times and later forcing a crucial fumble from Derrick Henry. Meanwhile, David Montgomery carved up the Ravens’ defense with his power running, helping keep Baltimore on its heels.
Here’s how both sides reacted after the game:
Dan Campbell on Aidan Hutchinson’s forced fumble: Campbell praised Hutchinson’s work ethic, noting that Detroit’s best players set the tone with relentless effort. “That’s our standard,” Campbell said, adding that anyone who joins the team is expected to match that energy or won’t last long.
Campbell on two long scoring drives: The Lions strung together multiple 95-plus-yard touchdown drives, something Campbell called “impressive,” especially against a defense like Baltimore’s with crowd noise factored in. He emphasized how much mental toughness was needed to sustain those series.
David Montgomery on his touchdown celebration: Montgomery explained his “Joker” act, saying he mimicked the character’s fake crying followed by laughter as a playful dig. He plans to use that celebration throughout the season.
Jared Goff on finally beating the Ravens: Goff acknowledged how difficult Baltimore is to play against, crediting Jackson and the Ravens’ defense. He admitted they’ve given him trouble in past meetings, but this time he managed to come out on top.
Lamar Jackson on the Lions’ defensive game plan: Jackson described Detroit’s defensive approach as disruptive, with stunts and a spy assigned to contain him. He noted how the coverage often forced him to be cautious rather than throwing risky passes.
John Harbaugh on the Ravens’ offensive struggles: Harbaugh pointed out that while Jackson made some good throws and extended plays, the Lions’ defense won key moments. He admitted the Ravens’ rushing attack wasn’t as effective as it needed to be.
Aidan Hutchinson on punching the ball loose from Derrick Henry: Hutchinson explained how he attacked the ball when he saw it loosely secured. He credited cornerback Amik Robertson for inspiring the move after watching film of Robertson forcing a similar fumble last season.
Harbaugh on Detroit’s fourth-and-2 play call: The Ravens coach said the Lions’ decision wasn’t shocking, but admitted his defense could have executed better. He called it a strong play call and a moment Baltimore needs to learn from.
Campbell on his fourth-down gamble: Campbell stressed that years of trust built with his players factored into his decision. He said the offensive line and playmakers “earned the right” to be put in that situation. Calling it “a thing of beauty,” he praised the way his team delivered when it mattered most.
Goff on the fourth-and-2 throw to St. Brown: Goff said he had been waiting all game for that call, and when it came, he knew it was the perfect opportunity. He hit St. Brown in stride to seal the game.
