The Detroit Lions traveled into Baltimore and walked away with one of their most impressive wins of the season, defeating the Ravens 38-30 under the bright lights of Monday Night Football. It was the type of gritty, physical performance that has become the hallmark of the Dan Campbell era—where every player, no matter their role, contributes to the final outcome.
While Detroit’s offense and special teams had their moments, it was the defense that left the most lasting impression. Even though Baltimore put up points, the Lions’ defensive front consistently found ways to pressure and disrupt. At the center of that effort was Al-Quadin Muhammad, a veteran edge rusher who turned what could have been just another game into his personal statement of redemption.
Seizing Opportunity After Davenport’s Injury
With Marcus Davenport recently placed on injured reserve, the Lions needed someone to fill the void. Muhammad, now in his eighth NFL season, recognized the opportunity and refused to let it slip away. His mentality heading into the matchup was clear—this was his chance to prove he belongs, and he delivered in spectacular fashion.
The performance not only highlighted Muhammad’s ability to impact games but also reinforced a key theme in Campbell’s program: when opportunity knocks, players must be ready to step through the door. Muhammad did more than step through; he charged in headfirst.
A Speech That Fired Up the Locker Room
After the game, cameras from Detroit’s official social media accounts captured Muhammad being awarded a game ball in the locker room. His message to teammates blended gratitude with raw emotion, and it immediately resonated with the entire organization and fan base.
“I want to thank every player, every coach, everybody in this organization, because a year ago, I was at home,” Muhammad said. “I was on the couch. So when you get an [expletive] opportunity, you make sure you take advantage of it.”
It was a reminder of how fleeting NFL careers can be and how hard it is to fight back once the league passes you by. For Muhammad, the speech wasn’t just motivational talk—it was the reality of his journey.
Backing Up Words With Performance
Muhammad didn’t just talk about making the most of his opportunity—he showed it on the field. He racked up 2.5 of Detroit’s seven sacks on Lamar Jackson, recorded four total tackles, including two for loss, and added three quarterback hits. From the opening snap to the closing whistle, he was a disruptive force in Baltimore’s backfield, helping set the tone for a Lions defense that played with relentless energy.
His effort earned him a 75.0 pass-rush grade from Pro Football Focus, further proof of how impactful his night truly was. For a player who has bounced between four different franchises since being drafted in the sixth round in 2017, it was the kind of breakout performance that validates years of persistence and resilience.
What’s Next
With Davenport sidelined for the foreseeable future, Muhammad is positioned to play an even bigger role in Detroit’s defensive rotation. And if he continues performing at this level, the Lions may have found another reliable weapon for their pass rush—one who can continue wreaking havoc even when Davenport eventually returns.
For Lions fans, Muhammad’s story is more than just a great game. It’s a reminder of how determination and preparation can transform careers and elevate a team. On Monday night, he didn’t just seize his moment—he gave Detroit another reason to believe this season could be special.
