This past weekend, the Detroit Lions were caught off guard when the Washington Commanders upset the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, setting up a Saturday night matchup against rookie sensation Jayden Daniels and the Commanders. This game presents a chance for the Lions’ franchise to redeem itself following their crushing loss in the 1991 NFC Championship Game to the then-Washington Redskins, a 41-10 defeat that denied them a Super Bowl appearance. Coach Dan Campbell’s “Super Bowl or bust” mentality has generated optimism among fans as they hope for a crucial win against the Commanders. When asked on Monday about the Lions’ struggles in containing running quarterbacks, Campbell responded succinctly with four words, as reported by Lions beat writer Kory Woods on X: “Tell me who does.” Last season, the Lions allowed 48 yards on five carries by 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy in the NFC Championship Game. With the home crowd at Ford Field behind them, and the return of speedy linebacker Alex Anzalone, the Lions are well-positioned to tackle one of the league’s most dynamic young talents. They’ll also have the edge of playoff experience as they aim to halt the Commanders’ momentum.
