Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell didn’t mince words when addressing the controversial altercation involving safety Brian Branch after Sunday night’s 30-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Tensions flared moments after the game ended when players from both sides were exchanging handshakes. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes extended his hand to Branch, but the Lions defender declined. Chiefs wideout JuJu Smith-Schuster then approached Branch to do the same, but the situation took a shocking turn when Branch struck Smith-Schuster, knocking him to the ground. The act quickly drew players from both teams to intervene before the situation escalated further.
Speaking to Woodward Sports Network following the incident, Campbell didn’t hold back his disappointment and labeled Branch’s actions as “inexcusable.”
“I love Brian Branch, but what he did is inexcusable, and it’s not something we’ll tolerate here,” Campbell said. “It’s not who we are or what we represent. I want to apologize to Coach Reid, JuJu, and the entire Chiefs organization. That behavior is unacceptable, and it won’t be overlooked. Brian knows that, and so does the rest of our team.”
Lions’ Performance Against Chiefs
Campbell’s comments made it clear that Branch could face internal discipline, though no official team decision has been announced yet.
On the field, Detroit failed to keep pace with Kansas City in the second half. Despite a competitive first two quarters, the Lions were outscored 17-7 after halftime as the Chiefs pulled away for the win.
Quarterback Jared Goff put up efficient numbers, completing 23 of 29 passes for 203 yards and two touchdowns, but Detroit’s offense lacked explosive plays when they needed them most.
Running back Jahmyr Gibbs carried the ball 17 times for 65 yards, while David Montgomery added 24 rushing yards and caught two passes for 37 yards.
In the passing game, Jameson Williams led the receiving corps with six catches for 66 yards and a touchdown. Sam LaPorta added five receptions for 45 yards and a score, while Amon-Ra St. Brown contributed nine receptions for 45 yards.
The Lions, now focused on turning the page, will aim to rebound when they host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Oct. 20 at 7 p.m. ET.
