The Detroit Lions experienced a pivotal moment in their 24-14 Week 9 victory over the Green Bay Packers, which may have influenced the game’s final outcome.
In the second quarter, Brian Branch was ejected after a helmet-to-helmet hit on Packers wide receiver Bo Melton, creating some concern for Detroit’s defense. With the Packers gaining momentum and threatening to score before halftime, the Lions managed to secure a field goal. Then, Kerby Joseph stepped up.
In a crucial play, Joseph intercepted a pass and sprinted into the end zone, giving Detroit a 17-3 lead at halftime. The interception shifted the game’s momentum from a close contest. Joseph felt it was his responsibility to step up for Branch with a major play.
B”That’s my brother, so I’m going to pick up his slack, you know what I mean? This team operates on a next-man-up mentality and thrives in adversity. Free (Brian Branch) man, but we have to stay smart on plays like that. Still, that’s his style—he has that tenacity from whistle to whistle. We just play hard.”
Like Branch, Joseph plays with intensity. His game-changing interception suggests that Detroit’s secondary shouldn’t alter their approach due to a judgment call by the officials.
Kerby Joseph doesn’t want Brian Branch to lose his edge After Branch’s ejection and his second helmet-to-helmet hit this season, there might be thoughts that he should ease up to prevent future incidents. Joseph, however, disagrees.
As a fellow safety, Joseph believes it’s unrealistic to expect Branch to modify his aggressive style of play.
“Referees have a job to do, but I would never ask (Brian) Branch to slow down. That’s just who he is—he’s full speed all the time, and I admire that, so free Brian Branch.”
Whether Branch faces a suspension or not, Joseph remains ready to back him. Above all, he hopes this incident won’t harm Branch’s confidence.
