Dan Campbell, head coach of the Detroit Lions, is known for his aggressive approach, which can either pay off big or backfire, depending on the situation. In their Sunday Night Football matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles on November 16, his bold strategy did not yield the desired results.
The Lions lost 16-9 in a low-scoring affair, and Campbell had taken over offensive play calling from coordinator John Morton for the game—a role he also assumed against the Washington Commanders on November 9. He confirmed he will continue handling play calling for the rest of the season.
Throughout the game, Campbell frequently opted to go for it on fourth down. However, the Lions were unsuccessful on all five attempts. Notably, two of these occurred within field goal range, while two others in their own territory indirectly contributed to points for Philadelphia.
Speaking to reporters on November 17, Campbell acknowledged that a more conservative strategy might have improved Detroit’s chances. “There are some decisions I wish I had made differently,” he said. “In this particular game, a more cautious approach could have given us a better shot at winning.”
Despite the outcome, Campbell defended his approach as part of the team’s identity. “That’s who we are. That’s who I am, and it hurt us today,” he admitted. While he may reconsider the level of risk, a major shift in philosophy seems unlikely.
From a statistical standpoint, quarterback Jared Goff had a rough night, completing just 38% of his passes for 255 yards and posting a career-low passer rating of 60.1. Running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery also struggled, though Gibbs led the team with five catches for 107 yards.
Campbell also praised his players for their efforts. “We moved the ball fairly well at times but stalled in key situations, and the fourth downs didn’t go our way,” he said. He added that Philadelphia’s defense deserves credit, noting that if the Lions had converted even one or two fourth downs, it might have shifted the momentum of the game. “They played well, and we weren’t at our best today,” Campbell concluded.
