The Athletic is offering live coverage of the highly anticipated NFL matchup between the Eagles and Lions in Sunday Night Football. Head coach Dan Campbell has taken a proactive approach with the Lions’ offense, assuming play-calling responsibilities after a rocky start to the season under offensive coordinator John Morton. Campbell’s goal is to establish a better “rhythm” to the offense, which he believes is vital for the team’s performance.
Since taking over, Campbell has implemented a variety of personnel packages and formations, differing significantly from what the Lions employed in the early part of the season. Notably, in their recent victory against the Washington Commanders, Campbell introduced a new strategy, including utilizing an extra offensive lineman right from the first play. This shift led to the Lions executing seven plays with jumbo personnel—more than in any previous game this season.
The emphasis on a stronger running game was evident, as the Lions made an impactful start with a successful eight-yard run. However, the offense was not solely focused on the ground game. Campbell skillfully integrated passing plays into the strategy, exemplified by Gibbs’ receiving touchdown that capped off the opening drive. Additionally, Jameson Williams showcased the revamped Lions offense with a notable 41-yard catch, demonstrating how the new formations can facilitate effective plays through both the air and ground.
After facing challenges in the first half of the season, the Lions appear to be making significant strides towards regaining their competitive edge. The return to utilizing larger personnel formations, sharp offensive designs, and innovative play-action strategies points to a revival of the team’s former strength. This evolution is a hopeful indicator for their prospects in the competitive NFC landscape.
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