Thursday, October 29, 2026

Lions Links for Thursday 10-29-26

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: Williams' dynamic play impacting Lions' offense:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-williams-dynamic-play-detroit-lions-offense-moore-goff



Week 8 opponent: What the Vikings are saying:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/week-8-opponent-what-the-vikings-are-saying-hutchinson-mcneill-branch

Detroit Lions Week 8 Thursday Injury Report Sees Encouraging Progress:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-week-eight-thursday-injury-report-sees-encouraging-progress


Detroit Lions Falling Way Behind Arms Race After Blockbuster Bears Trade:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-falling-way-behind-arms-race-after-blockbuster-bears-trade

What To Know About Lions Week 8 Official: Will Calls Be Favorable Again?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/what-to-know-about-lions-week-eight-official-will-calls-be-favorable-again

The Case For And Against Detroit Lions Trading For CB Donte Jackson:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/case-for-against-detroit-lions-trading-for-donte-jackson






Everyone wants the Lions to trade for a cornerback, but the Titans have another player Detroit should call about:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/everyone-wants-the-lions-to-trade-for-a-cornerback-but-the-titans-have-another-player-detroit-should-call-about/

Lions fans want Brad Holmes to make a blockbuster trade. There’s one huge problem nobody can fix:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/lions-fans-want-brad-holmes-to-make-a-blockbuster-trade-theres-one-huge-problem-nobody-can-fix/

Detroit Lions Mailbag: Is Sam LaPorta another T.J. Hockenson situation, when will Kerby Joseph play, is Cade Mays ready for the Vikings? and more:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/detroit-lions-mailbag-is-sam-laporta-another-t-j-hockenson-situation-when-will-kerby-joseph-play-is-cade-mays-ready-for-the-vikings-and-more/

What day Lions fans should expect Detroit to finally make a trade before the deadline:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/what-day-lions-fans-should-expect-detroit-to-finally-make-a-trade-before-the-deadline/

Tyler Allgeier Has Fallen Behind Two Cardinals Backs, but Jahmyr Gibbs’ 470-Touch Pace Could Make Him a Deadline Fit for the Lions:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/tyler-allgeier-lions-trade-jahmyr-gibbs-cardinals

Lions' Jared Goff Enters Clash Against Undefeated Vikings With Something to Prove:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-jared-goff-enters-clash-against-undefeated-vikings-with-something-to-prove

3 Trades the Detroit Lions Can Make Before Nov. 10 to Repair a Bottom-10 Pass Defense:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-trade-deadline-targets-pass-defense

Derrick Moore is "starting to feel more of a rhythm," and his role is growing:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/derrick-moore-lions-2678163089

The best NFL rookies after seven weeks: We ranked the top 10 and answered five big questions (T-9. Blake Miller, OT, Detroit Lions - Stats: 5 starts, 91% PBWR, 65.7% RBWR, Drafted: No. 17.  After Miller made 54 consecutive starts to close out his career at Clemson, there were some NFL evaluators who believed he was one of the safest picks in April. He looks every bit the long-term solution at right tackle for the Lions, who moved All-Pro Penei Sewell to left tackle over the offseason. Miller's current pass block win rate ranks 10th in the league and tops among all rookies. He has surrendered one sack and been clean with his handwork -- no penalties for holding, illegal use of hands or hands to the face. -- Legwold):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50308697/2026-rookies-ranking-top-10-reese-styles-boston-concepcion

The Biggest Question for Every NFL Game in Week 8 (Vikings (6–0) at Lions (4–2): Sunday, 1 p.m. ET - Can the Lions protect Jared Goff? Once again, a team facing the Vikings this season is being asked whether they can protect their quarterback. Not many squads have succeeded in the area, but the matter is particularly important for the Lions since Jared Goff struggled in two matchups against Brian Flores’s defense last season, playing a role in Detroit falling short of the postseason. Goff was sacked 10 times in those two matchups and turned the ball over four times—two interceptions and two strip-sacks—during their second loss to the Vikings, a defeat that sealed their fate to stay home for the playoffs. Goff notably has not thrown an interception yet this season—he’s the only starting quarterback that’s made every start and hasn’t been picked off—but that streak could come to an end if the Vikings’ pressure gets to him.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/biggest-question-every-game-week-8

NFL Fact Or Fiction: Vikings Destined For A Fall? Chiefs No Longer Elite? Giants Legit? (Jared Goff Is A System QB - @daxduffin.  Fact or Fiction: Fact.  This is true … and also not a problem! Most NFL quarterbacks are system dependent.   There are, what, roughly five or so truly transcendent QBs in the league right now? Of course, Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow are in that category. Bears QB Caleb Williams is a rising superstar, but we didn’t see his career start to take off until he got into Ben Johnson’s system. Niners QB Brock Purdy, a leading MVP candidate, is thriving in large part because he plays in Kyle Shanahan’s system.   So, we can’t hold a "system QB" label against Goff. If teams can’t get the rare generational QB, they actually want someone like Goff. He should be in the MVP conversation because of his production this season.   He’s thrown 14 touchdowns to zero interceptions. He leads the league in passing yards per game (298.0) and passer rating (112.5). He’s the only NFL player to have multiple games with 300-plus passing yards, multiple passing touchdowns and zero interceptions in 2026. He’s tied for the most passing touchdowns without an interception through the first six games of a season, according to NFL on FOX research. Goff benefits a ton from the talent around him. He has one of the league’s best wide receiver tandems in Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, a superstar running back in Jahmyr Gibbs and a great offensive line protecting him. But something should be said about how Goff consistently puts Detroit’s playmakers in positions to succeed, keeps the offense on schedule and delivers timely chunk plays. He’s the perfect quarterback for the Lions. "He's playing at such a high level," coach Dan Campbell said Sunday. "We have a tremendous amount of trust. He's just going to take care of the football, do the right thing, make explosive passes when they're there, get it to the right person, manage the game when we need him to manage it, push the ball when we need him to push it." ):   https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/vikings-destined-fall-chiefs-no-longer-elite-giants-legit

NFL Trade Deadline: 1 Player Every Playoff Hopeful Should Target (Detroit Lions - Trade target: Kansas City Chiefs CB Kristian Fulton.  Ruiz: The Lions need cornerbacks who can hold up in man coverage if they want to continue running defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard’s aggressive scheme. Those can be hard to find on the trade market, as teams typically covet man corners. But the Chiefs have a bit of a surplus at cornerback right now with rookie Mansoor Delane, Nohl Williams, and LaJarius Snead at the top of the depth chart. Kristian Fulton, who’s at his best in man coverage, hasn’t played more than 10 coverage snaps since Week 2. If the Chiefs are in the market for a receiver, they may look to flip Fulton for draft capital to help facilitate a trade for one. Detroit has too many holes in its defense to give away draft picks, but adding Fulton shouldn’t cost much.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-trade-deadline-rumors-1-player-every-playoff-hopeful-should-target

Roll The Tape: Goff Is Built To Beat Minnesota; Why McCarthy Is Thriving In New York (2. Will Vikings Alter Approach Against Lions' Blitz-Beating QB?  Under aggressive defensive coordinator Brian Flores, the Minnesota Vikings have lived and died by the blitz. But the blitz-heavy tactician’s diabolical methods will be tested Sunday against Jared Goff and the Detroit Lions in America's Game of the Week (1 p.m. ET on FOX).   The Vikings enter Week 8 with the highest blitz rate in the NFL, coming off a game in which they registered the highest blitz rate in a single game (85.2%) in the Next Gen Stats era. Flores has pummeled quarterbacks into submission with an exotic pressure scheme that taxes the mind, body and soul. His unit relentlessly stresses opponents with five- and six-man pressures, complemented by simulated blitzes that radically change the picture for quarterbacks, with only four defenders rushing and seven falling back into coverage.  Flores' psychotic, high-pressure approach has turned the Vikings into a defensive juggernaut, and the football world is buzzing. In studying the All-22 coaches’ footage from the Vikings’ 16-10 win in Week 7 over the Colts, persistent pressure and constant harassment forced Daniel Jones into one of the worst performances of his career (he completed 13 of 22 passes for 108 yards and an interception), as Minnesota scratched out its sixth win with minimal contributions from the offense. Although Jones wilted under pressure, the Vikings will face an unflappable quarterback this weekend in Goff. The former No. 1 overall pick has become comfortable amid chaos, as shown by his remarkable numbers against the blitz. He enters Week 8 with a higher completion percentage (70% to 66%), passer rating (123.3 to 107.5) and yards per attempt (8.2 to 7.9) when blitzed compared to coverage. He surgically carves up defenses when under pressure, whether blitzes come up the middle or off the edges to disrupt his rhythm. Goff’s poise and pinpoint accuracy let him punish opponents for risky approaches. Against the Vikings, Goff must be prepared for "all-out" blitzes with everyone attacking the pocket from "mug" alignments (both linebackers positioned in the gap between the center and guard). An ultra-aggressive blitz from a hyper-aggressive alignment sets the tone for the rest of the game because it immediately speeds up the clock for the QB, forcing him to face his fear of a physical beatdown. Additionally, constant pre-snap movement and post-snap trickery can lead to countless mistakes and blunders from newbies and veterans alike. Moreover, it creates a scary-movie effect, making Flores the "Boogeyman" everyone fears around this time of year.  Given his experience against Flores and his high-pressure scheme, Goff has a chance to crack the code on a defensive scheme that has quarterbacks and playcallers up late at night.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/roll-tape-goff-built-beat-minnesota-why-mccarthy-thriving-new-york

NFL Draft gambles: What Jets, Browns can learn from Super Bowl winners (The Lions and Texans: How to rebuild with extra picks - Detroit and Houston were in very different situations when they entered their respective drafts, but both offer examples of how quickly things can change when a franchise gets it right.  The Lions were coming off a 3-13-1 season when they selected Aidan Hutchinson second overall in 2022, then traded up to No. 12 for Jameson Williams. Detroit improved to 9-8 that fall, and a year later, the Lions were back in the first round with two more selections, taking running back Jahmyr Gibbs at No. 12 and linebacker Jack Campbell at No. 18.  Four first-rounders in two drafts, and the results soon followed. Detroit went 12-5 in 2023 and reached the NFC Championship Game, then won 15 games the following season. Hutchinson became one of the NFL's best pass rushers, Gibbs emerged as one of the NFL's best backs, and Williams and Campbell developed into important contributors.  What made Detroit's turnaround different was that it didn't need to find a quarterback. Jared Goff arrived in the 2021 Matthew Stafford trade, seemingly a throw-in alongside the two first-rounders the Lions received from the Rams. But GM Brad Holmes knew Goff from their time together in LA, and while the Rams were ready to move on, Holmes believed he could still be a franchise quarterback. So instead of drafting his replacement, the Lions built around him.  Houston, meanwhile, needed a quarterback. Coming off a 3-13-1 season, the Texans selected CJ Stroud second overall in 2023, then traded up one spot later for Will Anderson Jr., and it wasn't cheap. Houston sent Arizona picks 12 and 33 that year, plus first- and third-rounders in 2024. But Anderson has been so good that no one even thinks to bring up what the Texans gave up to get him.  The payoff was immediate: Houston went 10-7 in each of the next two seasons, then 12-5 in 2025, making the playoffs all three years. Stroud and Anderson became foundational pieces, even if Stroud couldn't quite match his brilliant rookie season in '24 and '25. And hiring DeMeco Ryans before that draft was just as important. The Texans found their quarterback, improved their pass rush and put a coaching staff in place that could develop the rest of the roster.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-draft-first-round-gamble-what-jets-browns-can-learn/

Week 8 Super Bowl stock report: Burrow ignites Bengals, Texans halted (Vikings at Lions - There might not be a more dramatic difference in styles in any matchup this season than the one between the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions. It perfectly encapsulates the "unstoppable force meets immovable object" theory with Minnesota's impenetrable defense squaring off against a Detroit offense that ranks second in scoring and yardage. And on the other side of the ball, is this the game where the Lions finally slow an opponent down, or will Kyler Murray break out of the doldrums against the league's worst defense? This is a battle of extremes, and one that will either deliver clarity in the NFC North with the Vikings pulling away at 7-0, or muck it up even further by pulling them back into the pack.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/super-bowl-stock-report-for-week-8-joe-burrow-bengals-texans/



‘Common Sense and Consistency Are Lacking’ — Former NFL QB Raises Concerns Over Refs Making Increasingly ‘Ridiculous’ Calls:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/former-qb-concerns-refs-increasingly-ridiculous-calls/

Vikings and Lions match up NFL’s stingiest defense vs. high-scoring offense in NFC North showdown:  https://apnews.com/article/vikings-lions-preview-0df61c79214863461e12944ba67afa05

Vikings Media:

Video - Josh Metellus On Facing Off Against Jared Goff, Blitz Rate, Levi Drake Rodriguez & D-Line's Impact:  https://www.vikings.com/video/josh-metellus-on-jared-goff-blitz-levi-drake-rodriguez-defensive-line

3 Bold Vikings Predictions Heading Into NFC North Collision vs. Lions in Week 8:  https://www.si.com/nfl/vikings/onsi/3-bold-vikings-predictions-nfc-north-collision-lions-week-8-01m64a76s4s8

Video:








Vikings vs. Lions Week 8 Preview | NFL Daily:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/vikings-vs-lions-week-8-preview-nfl-daily

Bucky Brooks breaks down Lions vs. Vikings | 'The NFL Report':  https://www.nfl.com/videos/bucky-brooks-breaks-down-lions-vs-vikings-the-nfl-report

Do The Lions Need To Take A Page Out Of The Bears Book? | The Valenti Show with Rico:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/do-the-lions-need-to-take-a-page-out-of-the-bears-book-the-valenti-show-with-rico-xbs2jta

Do The Lions Need To Respond To The Bears And Make A Move Now? | Karsch and Anderson:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/do-the-lions-need-to-respond-to-the-bears-and-make-a-move-now-karsch-and-anderson-xbs26ly



Is Lions Coach Dan Campbell Changing NFL With Aggressive Play Calls?:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/lions-coach-dan-campbell-changing-205130705.html



Reviewing 2026 Detroit Lions After First Six Games:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/reviewing-2026-detroit-lions-first-120501366.html

The Detroit Lions will have to pull out all the stops against the Vikings this weekend:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/detroit-lions-pull-stops-against-180127631.html

Posted by LionsFan at 7:28 PM 0 comments

Wednesday, October 28, 2026

Lions Links for Wednesday 10-28-26

Articles:


Lions vs. Vikings practice report: Oct. 28:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-vs-vikings-practice-report-oct-28-gibbs-stbrown-joseph






How Detroit Lions New CB Rotation Can Limit WR Justin Jefferson:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/how-detroit-lions-new-cb-rotation-can-limit-justin-jefferson

What It Would Cost Lions To Trade For Charvarius Ward: And Is He Worth it?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/what-it-would-cost-lions-to-trade-for-charvarius-ward-is-he-worth-it







3 Trades the Detroit Lions Can Make Before Nov. 10 to Repair a Bottom-10 Pass Defense:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-trade-deadline-targets-pass-defense

Kerby Joseph is finally returning to Lions practice, and the next 21 days will tell Detroit everything:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/kerby-joseph-is-finally-returning-to-lions-practice-and-the-next-21-days-will-tell-detroit-everything/

The Lions have been linked to a player they potentially tried to trade up for in the 2025 NFL Draft:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-have-been-linked-to-a-player-they-potentially-tried-to-trade-up-for-in-the-2025-nfl-draft/

The Lions don’t need to trade for a safety, and their current depth chart shows exactly why:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-dont-need-to-trade-for-a-safety-and-their-current-depth-chart-shows-exactly-why/

The first thing to know about the Vikings: One ridiculous defensive stat shows exactly why Minnesota is 6-0, but the Lions may have the best weapon to contend with them:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-first-thing-to-know-about-the-vikings-one-ridiculous-defensive-stat-shows-exactly-why-minnesota-is-6-0-but-the-lions-may-have-the-best-weapon-to-contend-with-them/

Riq Woolen’s $1.26 Million Base Salary Makes Him an Easy Lions Fit Before the Nov. 10 Deadline: https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-riq-woolen-trade-eagles-cornerback

Detroit Lions May Have Found the Fix Their Defense Needed:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/detroit-lions-defense-missed-tackles-dj-reed

Jared Goff defends Dan Campbell: "It's exposing of people who think it’s not the right decision":  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/jared-goff-dan-campbell

Bengals QB Joe Burrow, Falcons QB Michael Penix highlight Players of the Week (NFC Special Teams Player of the Week - D.J. Wonnum:  In a razor-thin 20-17 Lions' win over the Packers on Sunday, Wonnum's outstretched paw proved massive in the victory. Wonnum deflected a go-ahead field goal attempt by the Packers' Trey Smack with just 3:25 remaining in the fourth quarter and the game tied at 17. Detroit drove down the field for a game-winning field goal of its own on the ensuing drive):  https://www.nfl.com/news/players-of-the-week-2026-week-7-joe-burrow-michael-penix

Agent's Take: Detroit Lions have a Sam LaPorta problem:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/agents-take-lions-sam-laporta-contract-problem/

10 NFL players outperforming their contracts to start the 2026 season (G Christian Mahogany, Detroit Lions - 2026 Cap Hit: $1.11 million.  Much of the Lions’ downfall in 2025 was due to an offensive line that didn’t meet its typical standard of excellence. Yet the unit has returned to form in 2026, with Mahogany playing a leading role.  Mahogany’s 82.5 overall PFF grade is the sixth-best among qualified guards. His 3% pressure rate surrendered is the 11th-lowest at his position, while his 9.6% positively graded play rate in the run game is second.  Mahogany’s career arc has been a sinuous one, featuring a tremendous start on a small sample size as a 2024 rookie to a middling 59.1 overall PFF grade as a full-time player in 2025. Now, the former sixth-round pick looks like a longtime cog in the NFL’s highest-graded offensive line, acting as another developmental success for Detroit.):  https://www.pff.com/news/10-nfl-players-outperforming-their-contracts-to-start-the-2026-season

2026 NFL offensive line rankings: Lions retain top spot, Colts fall without Quenton Nelson (1. Detroit Lions (no change) - The Lions did an excellent job in pass protection in the win over the Packers, with left tackle Penei Sewell and right guard Tate Ratledge allowing no pressures. Meanwhile, left guard Christian Mahogany permitted just one. Cade Mays surrendered two in his return to action at center, while rookie right tackle Blake Miller gave up three — the second-highest pressure total in a single game of his career.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-offensive-line-rankings-2026

NFL wide receiver rankings: Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads after Week 6, Mike Evans rises to No. 2 (13. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit Lions (up 5) - After three relatively quiet games, St. Brown emerged from the Lions‘ bye week with his best performance of the season, hauling in nine of 11 targets for 153 yards. His 2.34 yards per route run through seven weeks ranks 14th among wide receivers.  22. Jameson Williams, Detroit Lions (up 4) - Williams got off to a slow start this season, recording four drops over his first four games. He's turned things around over the past two weeks, however, racking up 136 receiving yards and four touchdowns. Those two games also featured his highest yards-per-reception averages of the season.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-wide-receiver-rankings




Alarming stat shows Vikings luck might be running out:  https://www.thebiglead.com/alarming-td-stat-shows-vikings-luck-running-out-2026/

Bold predictions for Week 8 of 2026 NFL season (Detroit will hand Minnesota its first defeat of the season - Each team has played close games, but Detroit’s are usually shootouts. Sunday’s game will be different from what Minnesota has become accustomed to. The Lions’ ability to score will cause the Vikings’ offense to match multiple touchdown drives. Each team will score at least three touchdowns, but Detroit will secure a second consecutive fourth-quarter victory.  Prediction: For the first time this season, the Vikings must rely on their offense. In the end, the Lions hand Minnesota its first loss of the season.):  https://www.thebiglead.com/bold-predictions-week-8-2026-nfl-season/


Week 8 NFL MVP Power Rankings: Smith-Njigba continues to impress (2. Jared Goff, QB, Detroit Lions:  This one is a massive jump, as he was outside our top five last week. But truthfully, we probably should have had him up here sooner. He continues to play about as well as you could hope, and he threw for 303 yards and two touchdowns in a win over the Packers. He is yet to throw an interception this season, but is top 10 in the league with 1,788 passing yards and 14 passing touchdowns.):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/touchdown/2026/10/27/week-8-nfl-mvp-power-rankings-smith-njigba-continues-to-impress/92466212007/

NFL MVP power rankings Week 8: MVP race heats up, but who's No. 1? (8. QB Jared Goff, Detroit Lions (N/A):  Welcome to the top 10, Jared Goff. The Lions' back-and-forth 2-2 start to the 2026 season has kept things quiet, but Detroit's starter is off to a phenomenal start. Through seven weeks, he now leads the NFL in yards per game (298) and passer rating (112.5). Goff is also tied for third with 14 passing touchdowns in six games and has yet to throw an interception this year.  Goff's performance in the Lions' first divisional game of the season was arguably his best of the year: 22-of-32 on pass attempts for 303 yards, two touchdowns and, of course, no interceptions. With the Week 7 outing against the Packers, Goff became the first quarterback in NFL history with 200 Pass Yards, a Pass TD, and 0 INT in each of their team's first 6 games of a season, according to Pro Football Focus. Detroit has more tough tests ahead, with five more games against NFC North opponents, but Goff has started hot.  9. RB Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions (HM):  One key factor in Goff's strong start is Gibbs's outstanding play through six games. The Lions' star running back leads the NFL in touches (166) and rushing first downs (42). He's also tied for the lead in scrimmage touchdowns (9), third in rushing yards per game (103.3) and second in rushes for 10+ yards (21).  Much as Walker has opened up the Chiefs' offense to more passing success with play-action, Gibbs has served a similar role for the Lions. Detroit, like Kansas City, runs play-action at one of the highest rates in the NFL. Without Gibbs' prowess as a rusher, the Lions' offense would look far more one-dimensional, and Goff wouldn't be having the level of success he has so far. That's a big reason why Gibbs deserves MVP buzz.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/10/28/nfl-mvp-power-rankings-odds-week-8/92457163007/

QB Rankings:

NFL QB rankings: A new name at No. 1 (1. Jared Goff Detroit Lions QB - Jared Goff has 14 passing touchdowns, two behind Kirk Cousins for the league lead, and zero interceptions in 2026 while leading the NFL in passing yards per game (298.0) and passer rating (112.5). Goff's 223 throws without an interception are the most through the first six games of a season in NFL history. His 14 touchdowns without an interception are also tied for the most in NFL history in that span, along with Russell Wilson in the 2019 season. Fresh off winning his duel with Jordan Love and the Green Bay Packers at the last second, Goff also ranks second in expected points added (EPA) per dropback (0.29), just one one-hundredth behind Josh Allen (0.30). However, Goff has been the much better passer this season, which gets him the nod for the top spot entering Week 8. (+2)):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-qb-power-rankings-week-8-jared-goff-patrick-mahomes/

NFL quarterback rankings: Joe Burrow leads the way, Dak Prescott surges (5. Jared Goff, Detroit Lions (no change) - Goff’s 82.2 PFF passing grade is fourth in the NFL, but he’s coming off his lowest-graded game of the season. He entered the week with just one turnover worthy play in five games in 2026, but tallied four against the Green Bay Packers. He stays inside the top five with Patrick Mahomes falling, but that next group is hot on Goff’s heels.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-quarterback-rankings

NFL QB rankings, Week 8: Joe Burrow, Caleb Williams hit season high; Patrick Mahomes slides (6. Jared Goff DET - 2026 stats: 6 games | 67.3 pct | 1788 pass yds | 8.0 ypa | 14 pass TDs | 0 INTs | 15 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 6 fumbles.  Jared Goff was uncharacteristically sloppy and risky in Detroit’s win over Green Bay, but it didn’t show in the box score because the Packers repeatedly failed to make him pay for his ill-advised throws. In a chaotic game, Goff still made enough positive plays to help the Lions emerge victorious, but Detroit better hope his near-misses were just an aberration.  Next Gen Stats insights (via NFL Pro): Jared Goff completed 22 of his 32 pass attempts for 303 yards and two touchdowns in the Lions' Week 7 win over the Packers. Nearly all of his production came against zone coverage, where he completed 20-of-25 passes for 289 yards and a touchdown (+13.5% completion percentage over expected). Man coverage gave him far more trouble, as Goff completed just 2-of-7 passes for 14 yards and a touchdown (-20.8% CPOE).):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-qb-rankings-index-week-8-2026-nfl-season

Vikings Media:

Vikings know what’s waiting in Detroit: “It’s going to be a flat-out battle”:  https://kstp.com/minnesota-sports/vikings-know-whats-waiting-in-detroit-its-going-to-be-a-flat-out-battle/


Video:







Jahmyr Gibbs shares his mindset after fully taking over Lions' backfield:  https://www.espn.com/watch/player/_/id/50309469

What do you think about Lions HC Dan Campbell's decision and explanation? | 'GMFB':  https://www.nfl.com/videos/what-do-you-think-about-lions-hc-dan-campbell-s-decision-and-explanation-gmfb

Nick Shook tackles how the Lions can handle the Vikings' aggressive defense | 'The NFL Report':  https://www.nfl.com/videos/nick-shook-tackles-how-the-lions-can-handle-the-vikings-aggressive-defense-the-nfl-report

Last Hope? | Lions Open Kerby Joseph's Practice Window | The Valenti Show with Rico:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/last-hope-lions-open-kerby-joseph-s-practice-window-the-valenti-show-with-rico-xbrtudq


Brad Holmes Is On The Clock | Who Should He Target In Trades? | Costa and Jansen:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/brad-holmes-is-on-the-clock-who-should-he-target-in-trades-costa-and-jansen-xbrseeu


Lions Full-Contact Camps Explain Their Elite Tackling:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/lions-full-contact-camps-explain-022053806.html

Posted by LionsFan at 6:20 PM 0 comments

Tuesday, October 27, 2026

Lions Links for Tuesday 10-27-26

Articles:


Detroit Lions Release WR Lawrence Keys, Sign DL Taki TaimaniTo Practice Squad:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-release-wr-sign-dl-to-practice-squad


The Good, Bad and Ugly of Lions 20-17 Win Over Green Bay Packers:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/good-bad-ugly-of-lions-20-17-win-over-green-bay-packers

The Perfect Trade Target For the Lions May Have Just Become Available:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/perfect-trade-target-for-the-lions-may-have-just-become-available





The Lions made a small roster move Monday that could mean something bigger for two defensive linemen:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-made-a-small-roster-move-monday-that-could-mean-something-bigger-for-two-defensive-linemen/

The Colts just started selling, and we found a Lions trade that feels like something out of Madden, but doesn’t cost a lot:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-colts-just-started-selling-and-we-found-a-lions-trade-that-feels-like-something-out-of-madden-but-doesnt-cost-a-lot/

This Lions-Cowboys trade idea might be much closer to what Brad Holmes is actually looking for:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/this-lions-cowboys-trade-idea-might-be-much-closer-to-what-brad-holmes-is-actually-looking-for/

Lions Film Study: Detroit’s secondary is finally fixing one of its biggest problems, and 3 players show why:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/lions-film-study-detroits-secondary-is-finally-fixing-one-of-its-biggest-problems-and-3-players-show-why/

Detroit Lions Need Top Target Amon-Ra St. Brown at Full Strength:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/amon-ra-st-brown-injury-update-practice-plans-receivers

Lions Linked to CB Donte Jackson as an NFL-Worst Pass Defense Hunts for an Outside Starter:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-donte-jackson-trade-cornerback

Can the Lions Hand the Vikings Their First Loss? Jared Goff’s Best Start Says Yes:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-vikings-jared-goff-first-loss

Dan Campbell Can't Wait for the Undefeated Vikings After the Lions Escape the Packers:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/dan-campbell-lions-vikings-brian-branch

Lions’ Walk-Off Win Over Green Bay Put Their 2027 Pick at No. 25, With the Hard Part Ahead:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-2027-nfl-draft-order-week-8-no-25

Christian Mahogany is Having a Breakout Season, And It's Elevating the Lions' Offensive Line: https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/christian-mahoganys-breakout-campaign-is-elevating-lions-offensive-line-to-new-heights

Brian Branch's Dominant Return Should Give Lions' Defense the Spark It Needs:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/brian-branchs-dominant-return-should-give-lions-defense-the-spark-it-needs

Dan Campbell’s Risk-Taking Will Burn the Lions Sooner or Later:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/dan-campbells-lions-packers-fourth-down

D.J. Reed swallows 'dad guilt' to up his game for Lions:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/d-j-reed-detroit-lions

Seven things Solak thinks: The Chiefs will trade for a receiver, Goff is a sleeper MVP and more (I think ... Jared Goff is the sleeper MVP nobody's talking about.  The Lions are 4-2 after a 20-17 win over the Packers. It finally seemed like a manageable game for the Lions, rather than a desperate second-half sprint to keep pace with an opposing offense that the Detroit defense had no prayer of stopping. Detroit now hosts another division rival, the undefeated Vikings, with the potential to hand them their first loss and pull closer to pole position in the highly competitive NFC North. If the Lions win that game, they'll be 5-2 and the Vikings would be 6-1. And Goff likely would have had a good day against the vaunted Brian Flores defense.  Through six weeks, Goff has 150 completions on 223 attempts (67.3% completion rate). His passer rating of 112.5 is second only to Ravens QB Lamar Jackson. His total dropback EPA of 58.5 is just barely behind Josh Allen (58.6) for the league lead. He has thrown 14 touchdown passes and no interceptions, which ties 2019 Russell Wilson for the most touchdowns in a six-game, interception-free start to a season in NFL history. That Goff hasn't thrown an interception despite how often the Lions have been stuck in shootout game scripts is eye-popping. He has also been one of the least-pressured quarterbacks (30.8%, fifth lowest among high-volume passers). At first, that sounds like a disqualifying characteristic for an MVP, but 49ers QB Brock Purdy has the lowest pressure rate and Allen is sixth. High-performing quarterbacks benefit from good pass protection and also make the sort of plays that mitigate pressures altogether. This is where Goff has really impressed -- he's playing with an excellent rhythm. Here's a good example on a nice play design. The Lions bluff the screen to running back Jahmyr Gibbs, and Goff wants tight end Brock Wright (89) on the vertical. But a spiking defensive end collapses Goff's throwing platform. No biggie ... Goff resets with quick feet and dumps the ball to Gibbs instead of trying to force a late throw to Wright along the sideline. I love the rhythm and comfort with which Goff is playing this season -- this, more than anything, seems reminiscent of the Ben Johnson era and what was absent in the brief John Morton intermission last season. Drew Petzing and the improvements along the entire Lions offensive line have Goff playing with urgency but control -- comfort without laziness. Goff will never be an extended-play maven, and that lack of rushing production will always narrow his path to an MVP award. But on pure pass attempts -- no scrambles, no sacks, no nothing -- Goff has collected 82.2 EPA through six games. Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence is second at 59.6.  I took a quick peak at the MVP odds and found Goff eighth behind Allen (makes sense), Purdy (makes sense), Joe Burrow (makes sense), Lawrence (I agree), Mahomes (ehhh), Maye (probably not) and Williams (missed too many games). Goff has barely better odds than Packers quarterback Jordan Love despite the head-to-head win. The next closest player? Gibbs.  There's almost no shot that Gibbs wins the MVP over Goff if Detroit's season runs out with an NFC North title. The Lions are a fairly balanced offense (15th in overall pass rate, 11th in pass rate over expectation). For a running back to win the MVP over a quarterback, the production and talent disparity would have to be so obvious -- think Robinson vs. Penix -- that it would be a farce to select otherwise. Until proven otherwise, MVP is a quarterback award in the modern era.
Goff is far from a favorite at this stage, and rightfully so. Burrow is the one throwing the ball on every down, and the Bengals have the easiest schedule left. The AFC North, at least by record, is as competitive as the NFC North. If you're making me guess today who will actually win the award at the end of the season, I think I'd take Burrow.  But if the question is which player could emerge from the void of hype-less-ness and become a favorite by December, Goff seems like the obvious choice.):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50278890/week-8-seven-things-solak-thinks-chiefs-trade-goff-mvp

Week 8 NFL MVP tracker: Joe Burrow, Jared Goff, Caleb Williams on verge of crashing race (Jared Goff:  Goff has always been an uber-accurate passer, but he’s taken it to another level this season. His pinpoint accuracy and ability to process defenses quickly and get the ball to his playmakers have spearheaded a potent Lions attack. Goff has had a trove of throws with an infinitesimal window to hit. He put it right on the money. Boom. Move the chains. Goff leads the NFL with 298 passing yards per game and a 112.5 passer rating. He’s No. 3 in EPA per dropback (0.24), and third in success rate (50.8%). Despite defenses knowing exactly where he’s going to be in the pocket -- Goff sports a league-low 6.3% of passes on the move -- he’s diced up defenses. The highlight of Goff’s early-season stat barrage is his 14 TDs to zero INTs. The no-picks thing can be fluky; sometimes defenders drop easy ones. However, it speaks to Goff’s ability to play in rhythm within the offense and through pressure. On pure pass plays, excluding sacks and scrambles, Goff has an 82.2 pass EPA. No. 2 is Trevor Lawrence at 59.6. That is a massive gap. Other QBs might have more scrambling prowess, but Goff has been like Zeus with lightning bolts this season.  It’s easy to point to the talent around him, Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta, etc. But it takes a next-level QB to distribute to the right playmaker on time like Goff has this season. If Goff performs against Brian Flores' Vikings defense on Sunday, he’s making the top five, easily.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/week-8-nfl-mvp-tracker-joe-burrow-jared-goff-caleb-williams

QB Accuracy Report: NFL Week 8 (7. Jared Goff):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-qb-accuracy-report

The QB-WR Partnership Report: NFL Week 8 (7. QB Jared Goff WR Sam LaPorta - Passer rating:  139.1).  13. Jared Goff QB Jameson Williams WR - Passer rating:  131.3.  30
Jared Goff QB Amon-Ra St. Brown.WR - Passer rating:  119.1):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-qb-receiver-partnerships

NFL Receiver Drop Stats & Streaks: NFL Week 8 (4. Sam LaPorta - 3.1% drop rate.  20.  Jahmyr Gibbs - 4.5% drop rate):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-receiver-drop-stats-streaks

NFL Best & Worst: From Cam Skattebo’s Giant Spark To The Chiefs’ Offensive Sputter (Worst Story This Week: Officiating In Packers-Lions Game - I’m not one to gripe against officiating, but it was so bad in the Packers-Lions game that it must be addressed.  The Packers were penalized eight times for 81 yards, with seven of them coming in the second half. The calls included two questionable roughing the passer penalties, a strange intentional grounding call against quarterback Jordan Love (despite the fact that a receiver, tight end Tucker Kraft, was in the area) and a wild unnecessary roughness foul against defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt.  On that play, Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown appeared to go down after a short catch but got up and kept running. Wyatt then tackled St. Brown but was hit with a flag, despite the fact that no whistle was heard. In the postgame pool report, referee Alex Moore did not definitively say whether a whistle was blown either.  I wouldn’t say the Packers’ loss was on the refs. Green Bay blew its share of opportunities throughout the game. Kicker Trey Smack missed a 26-yard field goal in the first quarter and his 35-yard attempt late in the fourth quarter was partially blocked. There were drops. The run game continued to be a disaster even with lead back Josh Jacobs back in the lineup, producing just 60 net yards.  But in a league in which many games are decided by a few plays, the officiating must be held accountable — just like the performance by players and coaches.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/cam-skattebo-sparks-giants-chiefs-offense-stalls-seahawks-defense

Three Biggest Winners From Oregon Ducks in NFL Week 7 (Penei Sewell, Detroit Lions - Penei Sewell and the Detroit Lions earned a critical 20-17 win at Ford Field on Sunday over their bitter NFC North division rival, the Green Bay Packers. Sewell, who moved to left tackle on the Lions offensive line this season, as he did with the Ducks, played a major role in Detroit’s win over the Packers. On one play against the Packers, Sewell lines up as an eligible receiver as new Lions offensive coordinator Drew Petzing got creative.  The Lions' offensive line is much better than last season, and Sewell deserves credit. In the win over the Packers, the Lions' offensive line only allowed one sack and helped running back Jahmyr Gibbs rush for over 116 yards on 29 carries. The Lions selected Sewell out of Oregon with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, a selection that has helped turn around Detroit’s franchise. Sewell is considered one of the best players under 25, and in the Motor City, he's helped the Lions win two NFC North titles and playoff wins.):  https://www.si.com/college/oregon/football/three-biggest-winners-oregon-ducks-nfl-week-7-penei-sewell-bo-nix

A flag-filled afternoon: Packers-Lions showdown overshadowed by rash of debatable penalties:  https://apnews.com/article/packers-lions-campbell-officials-c77c9fc4cf1ee231a6982c3416532f9e

Grades:

Report card grades for every NFC team in NFL Week 7 (Detroit Lions: A.  The Detroit Lions come off the bye and win a crucial game against a Packers squad who were feeling really good about themselves. This NFC North is going to come down to the wire with playoff spots on the line. Expect the Lions to be buyers at the trade deadline.):  https://www.thebiglead.com/report-card-grades-nfc-teams-week-7-2026/

QB Rankings:

QB Stock Market Week 8: The Next Step Is The Hardest For Drake Maye, Caleb Williams (7. Jared Goff, Detroit Lions - Previous ranking: 7):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/qb-stock-market-week-8-next-step-hardest-drake-maye-caleb-williams

Power Rankings:


Vikings Media:

Potential Vikings Defensive Concern May Have Emerged Ahead of Week 8 vs. Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/vikings/onsi/potential-vikings-defensive-concern-emerged-ahead-week-8-lions-01m5xf91y41j

Video:

With The Lions Latest Wins, Will They Be Active In Trade Market? | The Valenti Show with Rico:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/with-the-lions-latest-wins-will-they-be-active-in-trade-market-the-valenti-show-with-rico-xbrmfvq



Jared Goff Joins Karsch and Anderson | October 27, 2026 | Karsch and Anderson:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/jared-goff-joins-karsch-and-anderson-october-27-2026-karsch-and-anderson-xbrk5tu




Amon-Ra St. Brown Must Be Healthy For Minnesota:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/amon-ra-st-brown-must-205226674.html

The Lions may have the perfect trade lining up ahead of the deadline:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/lions-may-perfect-trade-lining-173951615.html

The Lions Need To Call The Colts About This Trade:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/lions-call-colts-trade-170802073.html

Latest Detroit Lions TE Sam LaPorta Contract Update:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/latest-detroit-lions-te-sam-125715628.html
Posted by LionsFan at 7:20 PM 0 comments

Week 8 Power Rankings


SI (7. Detroit Lions (4–2) - Last week’s ranking: No. 11.  Last week’s result: beat Packers, 20–17.  This week: vs. Vikings.  The defensive performance from Detroit against Green Bay was season-altering. With Josh Jacobs returning and the Packers supposedly at full(er) strength, the Lions posted one of the lowest opponent success rates in the NFL on Sunday. Talk about needing to have it.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/conor-orr-week-8-nfl-power-rankings-vikings-seahawks-bears

The BigLead (7. Detroit Lions:  The Lions moved up one spot this week after their home win against the Packers. They won, despite HC Dan Campbell’s crazy decisions. Late in the game with the score tied, he inexplicably went for it on fourth down, well inside Green Bay territory. Thankfully for them, Green Bay’s kicker missed a chip shot. He’s going to cost his team in a big spot at some point this season.):  https://www.thebiglead.com/nfl-power-rankings-entering-week-8-2026/

Fox sports Brady (8. Detroit Lions - Previous ranking: Unranked.  Week 7 result: 20-17 win vs. Green Bay Packers  Brady's thoughts: You guys remember a few weeks ago when I called the Lions the most fun team in football to watch? Well, we got to show the whole country as Jared Goff and co. won a thriller against Green Bay in Detroit. The Jared-to-Jameson Williams connection is on fire right now — four touchdowns in their last two games.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/tom-bradys-nfl-power-rankings-vikings-49ers-chiefs-bills-patriots-bears

Fox sports Brooks (9. Detroit Lions:  Super Bowl odds: +2100.  Head coach Dan Campbell has whipped the Lions back into shape as a playoff contender. Despite their flaws, the Lions’ toughness and grit let them scratch out wins by controlling the game with their offense and protecting their woeful defense with a well-executed "keep away" strategy.  Who Stood Out: Jared Goff’s 14 touchdown passes without an interception through his first six games this season are tied with Russell Wilson (2019) for the most in NFL history.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/monday-morning-nfl-top-10-rankings-new-no-1-after-two-undefeated-teams-lose

The Athletic (Power ranking: 9th.  Previous ranking: 9th.  "Something spooky: Their pass defense. Detroit got an important divisional win on Sunday, but concerns remain about its pass defense even after Brian Branch returned to the lineup. The Lions have the league’s fourth-worst expected points added per play on dropbacks against them. If they got even middling play from their secondary, they could be serious contenders in the NFC."):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/week-eight-power-rankings-why-detroit-lions-crack-top-10-2026

Fox sports (10. Detroit Lions - Previous ranking: 13.  Super Bowl odds: +2100 (13th-best).  Head coach Dan Campbell’s decision not to fire defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard looked a lot better than anyone expected when the Lions held the Packers to 17 points this past Sunday. It wasn’t a perfect effort, but they prevented the big plays when it mattered the most. And if they can actually get their defensive issues ironed out, they’ll be a strong Super Bowl contender. Their offense is good enough to beat anybody. They just need their defense to stop giving games away.  Next game: vs. Vikings (Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET).  Stat To Know: The Lions' 4-2 start marks the first time in franchise history they’ve won at least four of their first six games in four consecutive seasons.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-power-rankings-week-8

CBS (10. Lions - The offense is, as usual, playing at a high level. Jared Goff has been really good. Dan Campbell needs to quit going for it all the time.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/priscos-nfl-week-8-power-rankings-vikings/

Yahoo (10. Detroit Lions (4-2, LW: 11) - The Lions got a big win Sunday and a big return to the lineup. Safety Brian Branch was back after tearing his Achilles last season, and he had four tackles and an interception. He can make a big difference in a defense that needs the boost.  "That's just who he is, man," linebacker Derrick Barnes told MLive.com. "He a ballhawk, man. He run, he hits, man. He plays fast the whole game. That's who he is, man. And a lot of people feed off the energy."  Branch played 45 snaps, which was 67% of the Lions' defensive plays. That number will increase as he gets back to full strength. The Lions held the Packers to 17 points with Branch back in the lineup, which is progress from a unit that had struggled all season.):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/nfl-power-rankings-entering-week-8-vikings-are-last-undefeated-team-but-are-they-no-1-041510569.html


Walter Football (11. Detroit Lions (4-2)Team Hub - Previously: 13.  I like Dan Campbell as a head coach, and I'm usually on board with his fourth-down gambles, but his decision to go for it on fourth down in a tie game near his own end zone was absolutely asinine. It feels like the Lions will lose in the playoffs because of a decision like that.):  https://walterfootball.com/nflpowerrankings.php

ESPN (11. Detroit Lions (4-2) - Week 7 result: Beat the Packers 20-17.  Week 7 ranking: 12.  Best offseason addition: OT Blake Miller.  Detroit drafted Miller as the No. 17 pick to be a Day 1 starter, and the 22-year-old has lived up to the hype. He took on star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson during training camp, and he hasn't allowed a sack in five games this season (primarily at right tackle). Meanwhile, Detroit's offense is producing the second-most points in the league (30.67 per game) behind the Bills (32.83). Miller still has room to grow, as he has committed five penalties this season. -- Eric Woodyard):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50288293/nfl-power-rankings-week-8-teams-best-offseason-additions

NFL.com (11. Detroit Lions:  Detroit played one of its uglier games of the 2026 season on Sunday, a true NFC North rock fight against a rival that devolved into a polite battle of “No, go ahead, you take the win,” before the Lions ultimately emerged victorious. Turnovers became a problem for the first time this season, but conversely, Brian Branch’s return helped a defense that desperately needed a boost.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-power-rankings-week-8-2026-nfl-season

USA Today (11. Detroit Lions (11): Maybe a little more MVP love for Jared Goff, the only quarterback to pass for at least 200 yards, a TD and zero picks in each of his team's first six games? Ever.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/columnist/nate-davis/2026/10/27/nfl-power-rankings-week-8-49ers-chiefs-seahawks-bears/92456954007/

SN (12. Detroit Lions 4-2 (14):  The Lions' defense went from scary bad to intimidating against the Packers with Brian Branch back to help the secondary. When Jared Goff is playing so well off Jahmyr Gibbs' running, Detroit is difficult to beat. It's no surprise Detroit delivered its best game for Dan Campbell after the bye. The team needs to keep up the momentum with first-place Minnesota visiting next.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-power-rankings-week-8-bills-vikings-49ers-patriots-packers/eb6f24cce36fc22dac8c8aa6

FTW (12. Detroit Lions:  Last week: 13.  Sunday's affair with the Packers in Detroit was a game of hot potato over a win seemingly no one wanted. Considering all the late-game mistakes the Lions made — an erroneous fourth-down attempt deep in their own territory, a fumble inside the five-yard line, for some examples — along with questionable officiating in their favor, they're probably very fortunate to have left with a win. The Lions are right back in the thick of the NFC playoff race, but they definitely didn't make it easy. — RZ):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/10/27/nfl-power-rankings-week-8-vikings-bills-ravens/92448204007/

Fansided Jason LaCanfora (13. Detroit Lions - Last Rank: 18.  Week 7 Result: beat Packers, 20-17.  They needed this game, badly. After Dan Campbell tried to get macho on another bizarre fourth down call late in the game and got stuffed, they needed it desperately. And they got it. And the defense was better with help arriving in the secondary. Lack the real upside of teams past, but perhaps their best football is ahead of them.):  https://fansided.com/nfl/nfl-power-rankings-entering-week-8-steelers-rise-with-good-not-great-afc-north-chiefs-stay-put

PFT (13. Lions (No. 18; 4-2): Can Jared Goff figure out the Brian Flores defense?):  https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/pfts-week-8-nfl-2026-power-rankings

PFN (16. Detroit Lions - Last Week’s Ranking: 17.  Offense Rank: 5.  Defense Rank: 27.  Playoff Odds: 29.90%.  Coming out of their Week 6 bye week, the Detroit Lions were able to execute and pick up the narrow win over the Packers in Week 7. Though some questionable decisions by Dan Campbell could have doomed them, they came out of the game with the 20-17 victory, improving to 4-2 this season.  The Lions have now won three of their last four games, and their victory over the Packers gives them a key victory in a competitive NFC North. Their offense fumbled the ball twice and went 0-for-2 on fourth-down conversion opportunities, but they still showed more than enough to get the job done in spite of that on Sunday.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/week-8-nfl-power-rankings-2026/

Average Power Ranking (196/19):  10
Posted by LionsFan at 7:19 PM 0 comments

Monday, October 26, 2026

Lions Links for Monday 10-26-26

Articles:

KEY QUESTIONS: How important was it to start stacking wins?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/key-questions-how-important-was-it-for-lions-to-start-stacking-wins-goff-stbrown-carter


NOTEBOOK: Goff continues impressive play in Lions' win over Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/goff-continues-impressive-play-lions-victory-packers-wonnum-gibbs







3 Things We Learned About Detroit Lions After Win Over Packers:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/three-things-we-learned-about-detroit-lions-after-win-over-packers

Lions Provide Key Injury Updates: Will St. Brown, Rakestraw Miss Practice?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-provide-key-injury-updates-will-st-brown-rakestraw-miss-practice




Everything Dan Campbell Said After Lions Defeated Packers:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/everything-dan-campbell-said-after-lions-defeated-packers






The NFL is likely to screw over multiple Lions players this week, and it will be quite a hypocritical moment:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-nfl-is-likely-to-screw-over-multiple-lions-players-this-week-and-it-will-be-quite-a-hypocritical-moment/

Monday Overreaction: I thought the Lions had to make a huge trade at cornerback. I’m not so sure anymore:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/monday-overreaction-i-thought-the-lions-had-to-make-a-huge-trade-at-cornerback-im-not-so-sure-anymore/

The Lions are running out of cornerback trade options, but there’s one team Brad Holmes should be watching closely:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-are-running-out-of-cornerback-trade-options-but-theres-one-team-brad-holmes-should-be-watching-closely/

The Lions made their choice between Cade Mays and Juice Scruggs, but one rough game could make this complicated fast:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-made-their-choice-between-cade-mays-and-juice-scruggs-but-one-rough-game-could-make-this-complicated-fast/

What the box score didn’t tell you: The Lions defense took a real step against Green Bay, but one problem still won’t go away:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/what-the-box-score-didnt-tell-you-the-lions-defense-took-a-real-step-against-green-bay-but-one-problem-still-wont-go-away/

A little-used Lions defender just forced his way into a bigger conversation after Sunday’s win:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/a-little-used-lions-defender-just-forced-his-way-into-a-bigger-conversation-after-sundays-win/

Can the Lions Catch the 6-0 Vikings? Answering 5 Questions Lions Fans Are Asking:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-vikings-questions-fans-asking-week-8

Dan Campbell Should Have Kicked at the Packers' 6, and the Lions Nearly Paid for It Later:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/dan-campbell-lions-fourth-down-packers-field-goal

4 Uneasy Takeaways From Lions' Walk-Off 20-17 Win Over Packers in Week 7:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-packers-takeaways-week-7-20-17-win

Jahmyr Gibbs’ 29-Carry Day Exposes Lions’ Short-Yardage Gap:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-jahmyr-gibbs-29-carries-short-yardage

Cade Mays' Lions debut validated decision to sign with Detroit:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/cade-mays-lions-2678145809

'He’s our tone-setter:' Brian Branch reminds Lions what they were missing:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/brian-branch-lions-2678143717


Early bets for NFL Week 8: Two games we're jumping on before potential odds changes (Detroit Lions -3 vs. Minnesota Vikings - Bowen: Will the Lions have enough answers for the Vikings' pressure? Brian Flores' unit leads the NFL in blitz rate (69.9%) and is tied for the most sacks (21) in the league. It will be on Jared Goff, who has completed 72.7% of his throws versus the blitz this season, to get the ball out on time. And I'm betting that he does.  Last week: Vikings -5.5 vs. Colts (Result: Vikings 16, Colts 10)):  https://www.espn.com/espn/betting/story/_/id/50250601/nfl-week-8-betting-odds-props-early-picks-predictions

NFL Week 7: Team of the Week & Player Awards (EDGE: Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit Lions.  S: Brian Branch, Detroit Lions):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-week-7-team-of-the-week-player-awards

Week 7 overreactions: Dan Campbell actually got it right? (Dan Campbell's fourth-down decision was reasonable - Overreaction or reality: Reality.  The Lions beat the Packers 20-17 Sunday despite a horrific failed fourth-and-1 at their own 24-yard line late in the fourth quarter.  Lots of people were probably pulling their hair out saying "What is Dan Campbell thinking?!"  Well, he explained what he was thinking: "Well, I thought we would get it, number one. I really believed we would get that. Number two, I knew we would get the ball back if it didn't work out. And those were the two thoughts."  Here's why it's defensible. To his first thought, the Lions were two-for-three on fourth-and-1 this season and are 10-for-14 since the start of last season.  But when they didn't get it, his second thought came into play. The Lions had all three timeouts with nearly five minutes remaining. The Lions would have almost certainly gotten the ball back with significant time/timeouts left, no matter what happened. In fact, the short field for the Packers basically worked in the Lions' favor.  Would you rather have him punt the ball away and give the Packers the ball with five minutes and 40-50 yards to go to reach field-goal range? There's a solid chance the Packers score with basically no time left and/or the Lions use up all their timeouts in that scenario.  Would I have gone for it there? Probably not. But Campbell's logic is legitimate here, and analytical models supported it or had it as a toss-up.  It ended up working out, too. The Packers had to settle for a field goal attempt, which was blocked, and the Lions drove down and won on a walk-off field goal. But even if Trey Smack's kick had gone in, the Lions would have had the ball with 3:21 left and all three timeouts, only down three. Campbell would take that every day of the week.  Don't think "Oh, there's dumb Dan Campbell making a dumb, over-aggressive decision." It was defensible at worst and completely reasonable -- and maybe even the right choice -- at best. And guess what? His team won!):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-overreactions-panthers-bryce-young-ravens/



5 momentous plays in Week 7: Dan Campbell gets bailed out after bonkers fourth-down gamble, and red-zone woes hurt Saints, Ravens and Packers (3. Wonnum's block saved Campbell's bacon - For a 20-17 game, Packers-Lions had a lot going on. Especially in the final five minutes.  The Lions got the ball back after the Packers tied it, 17-17, with just over seven minutes left. They acted like a team that was going to end the game right then and there. After a 9-yard gain on first down, the Lions had back-to-back no-gains.   That set up a fourth-and-1 from his own 24-yard line with just under five minutes remaining. And, boy, that's Dan Campbell's music. Detroit's head coach went for it, and Jahmyr Gibbs was stopped for a 2-yard loss. The Packers were in terrific shape at the Lions' 22-yard line, and had they converted a first down, they'd have put Campbell in a bind with timeouts and the clock.  But it was all moot when the Packers missed on third down and Trey Smack's field-goal try was barely deflected by the Lions' D.J. Wonnum. It's hard to say whether it affected the flight of the ball, but one way or another, the kick missed.  The Lions took the ball down and drained the clock well, with Gibbs smartly refusing to score when the Packers tried to lure him into doing so. It was a win, but a fortunate one, given how Campbell's decision panned out.   "We need to be better as a staff there," Campbell said in his postgame locker-room speech. But he praised Wonnum and his team for toughness in the face of adversity. Self-created adversity at that. Thankfully, Wonnum's block made that decision null and void.):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/5-momentous-plays-in-week-7-dan-campbell-gets-bailed-out-after-bonkers-fourth-down-gamble-and-red-zone-woes-hurt-saints-ravens-and-packers-010837936.html

The Obvious Solution To Fix Chiefs’ Offense; Packers Can't Stop Beating Themselves (2. Green Bay Packers - Two Plays That Said It All: Matt LaFleur Has Yet To Figure Out How To Keep The Packers From Beating Themselves.  It would be overly generous to say the Lions won this game. Really, the Packers lost it.   The Packers might have been the better team, but they suffered from a handful of bad breaks (including with the officiating), which compounded their own mistakes. And that’s how talented teams lose. The Lions won 20-17 on a field goal as time expired.  So let’s look at two bad breaks. The most notable one came on a roughing the passer penalty that the officials tacked onto an 18-yard completion from quarterback Jared Goff to tight end Sam LaPorta with 2:45 left in the game on the Lions’ go-ahead drive.  "That’s definitely not roughing the passer," FOX Sports analyst Tom Brady said. This play — aided in part by the incorrect call — added 12.8% to the Lions’ win probability, per Next Gen Stats.  It was one of four second-half (and three fourth-quarter) calls that were generous for the Lions. There was another roughing the passer penalty where Packers defensive lineman Brenton Cox (barely) bumped Goff, who sold the bump theatrically, which turned a third-down incompletion into a first down. There was the intentional grounding on Jordan Love in the fourth quarter that was … rough. And there was another penalty where Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown seemed to continue to try to play after the whistle, which prompted a tackle from a Packers defender, which drew a roughness penalty.  "I'm not a big fan of the refs right now," Packers safety Xavier McKinney told reporters after the game, via FOX6’s Lily Zhao. "I think it's bulls--- a lot of the times."  But then there was the real backbreaker: Josh Jacobs’ drop. You can’t blame that one on the officials.  If the Packers running back hadn’t dropped a touchdown pass with three minutes left in the fourth quarter, this game might have been different. Of course, the Packers are infamous for their drops — both this season and in recent seasons. Dropping passes might be "Packer-ing."  Going into this week, Love was second in the NFL in drop yards lost (158), per Next Gen Stats. And Love led the NFL in pass-catcher drops (20) — far ahead of second-place Cam Ward (12). But they rarely cost Love quite like this one cost Green Bay.  And it’s easy to imagine an outcome where the Packers win this game if Jacobs had caught the ball. Because on the next play, the Lions blocked the Packers’ field-goal attempt, which also would’ve given them the lead. And Detroit really shouldn’t have been able to block what should’ve been a chip-shot field goal.  To the Lions’ credit, they baited the Packers a few times — dangling a hook for Green Bay to make more mistakes. And the Packers took it willingly. It was third-and-5 at the 2-minute warning and the Packers fell for a hard count, which gave the Lions a new set of downs. Detroit’s offense responded by dancing on the field.  There were just too many mistakes by the Packers (and the officials) to count.  The Packers could be the best team in the NFC North — which sounds crazy, because they’re at the bottom of the division. But the Packers have this unshakable habit of hurting themselves. They did it again on Sunday.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/solution-chiefs-offense-packers-beating-themselves-caleb-williams-jj-mccarthy

The Week 7 Plays That Stood Out: The 49ers' Woes To The Seahawks' Dominant Defense (Three And Out - 1. Packers defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon has tormented opposing offenses with his exotic blitzes on third down, so credit to the Lions coaching staff for having an answer on Sunday. Sometimes, the solution to a complex schematic problem is as simple as putting the ball in your best player’s hands. For Detroit, that’s Jahmyr Gibbs, who moved the chains on two key third-down runs, with both coming on the same run play against the same pressure look from Green Bay.  The first one came on third-and-5 on the opening drive. With the Packers showing blitz, Detroit ran a crack toss with Amon-Ra St. Brown motioning across the formation and the play-side offensive tackle pulling outside, leading the way for Gibbs on third-and-5.  That extended the Lions' first of two touchdown drives on Sunday. The second play essentially iced the game for Detroit. Facing third-and-7 and a similar pressure look from Green Bay, the Lions tossed it to Gibbs with St. Brown and Penei Sewell clearing out a path to a first down.  Gibbs wisely went down, letting Detroit bleed the clock before a chip-shot field goal to win.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/week-7-plays-stood-out-49ers-woes-giants-run-game

Officiating Under Fire: Packers, Tom Brady Question Controversial Calls vs. Lions:  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/officiating-under-fire-packers-tom-brady-question-controversial-calls-vs-lions

NFL Week 7 Defining Stats: Rodgers Passes Manning, Burrow Catches Fire (Goff the Charts - Jared Goff’s 14 touchdown passes without an interception through his first six games this season tie Russell Wilson (2019) for the most in NFL history.  Detroit Lions - The Lions 4-2 start marks the first time in franchise history they’ve won at least four of their first six games in four consecutive seasons.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-week-7-defining-stats-aaron-rodgers-passes-peyton-manning-joe-burrow-catches-fire

NFL Fallout Week 7: Lions Announce Themselves As Super Bowl Contenders:  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-fallout-week-7-lions-announce-themselves-super-bowl-contenders

From Christian McCaffrey's thigh to gutsy Giants moves, what stood out in NFL Week 7 | Monday Morning JB (Quick slants - While Packers running back Josh Jacobs made his season debut after being reinstated from the Commissioner’s exempt list, Lions safety Brian Branch made his debut, too, back from the torn Achilles that ended his 2025 season in December. He made a difference in the victory against Green Bay as Detroit’s much-maligned defense allowed season-lows for points (17), yards (324) and passing yards (264), with its best third-down conversion rate (33.3%, 5 of 15). And Branch, patrolling the deep middle, snagged the lone interception of Jordan Love.  What I’m looking forward to in Week 8 - Vikings at Lions. Minnesota packs the NFL’s best defense for the trip to Ford Field, where one of the NFL’s most prolific offenses awaits in an NFC North clash. The Vikings live and die by the blitz, and they are living rather well as the NFC’s only undefeated team (6-0), and, dating to last season, the league’s longest active winning streak at 11 games. D-coordinator Brian Flores blitzed Colts quarterback Daniel Jones on 85.2% of his dropbacks on Sunday, the highest rate ever in the NextGen Stas era (dating to 2016). Yet the Lions present their toughest matchup yet, given Jared Goff’s ability to lean on a deep array of weapons to beat the blitz with Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon St. Brown, Jameson Williams and Sam LaPorta. Detroit, third in the NFL with 184 points, is averaging 30.6 points per game. Minnesota is allowing an NFL-low 12.3 points per game. Something’s gotta give.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/columnist/bell/2026/10/26/nfl-week-7-highlights-christian-mccaffrey-jj-mccarthy-joe-burrow-josh-simmons/92440492007/

32 things we learned in Week 7: Taylor, more shine before trade deadline (22. It didn’t appear Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell nor Green Bay Packers K Trey Smack really wanted to win Sunday’s game at Ford Field. We kid, of course, but Campbell’s failed fourth-down gamble at his own 24-yard line in the final five minutes – with the game tied – was immediately followed by the rookie’s blocked field-goal try from 35 yards (his second miss of the day, the other from 26 yards) and gave this intra-divisional battle a hot-potato feel.  32. The jersey number of Lions DB Brian Branch, who played his first game since he ruptured an Achilles last December. He had four tackles and a fourth-quarter interception in a game Detroit won 20-17 on a field goal at the gun. Welcome back, sir.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/columnist/nate-davis/2026/10/25/nfl-week-7-takeaways-trade-deadline-jonathan-taylor-tony-pollard/92433481007/


NFL contenders & pretenders after Week 7 (Contender: Detroit Lions - The Lions may have picked up their biggest win of the season. NFC North is very competitive, and they went against a hungry Packers team. They took them down, and Jahmyr Gibbs continues to have strong games, along with Amon-Ra St. Brown. Their biggest issue is their defense, which they may address at this upcoming trade deadline. A big win for Dan Campbell and this Lions squad. This NFC North may feature multiple NFC North teams, with the Vikings still unbeaten, the Bears are 5-2, and the Lions are 4-2.):  https://www.thebiglead.com/nfl-contenders-pretenders-after-week-7-2026/

Mike Tomlin defends Dan Campbell for controversial fourth down decision, makes a good point:  https://www.thebiglead.com/dan-campbell-lions-fourth-down-packers/

Tom Brady Spoke for Every NFL Fan When He Ripped the Refs in Packers-Lions Game:  https://www.si.com/nfl/tom-brady-spoke-every-nfl-fan-ripped-refs-packers-lions-game

Dan Campbell’s Puzzling Fourth-Down Calls Nearly Cost Lions in Win Over Packers:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/dan-campbell-puzzling-fourth-down-calls-win-packers

Albert Breer’s Week 7 NFL Takeaways: One Hidden Reason the Lions Are Dangerous (Detroit Lions
- The Lions look increasingly dangerous. We all know what the offense is capable of. The defense, with Brian Branch back and Kerby Joseph’s return looming, showed signs of life Sunday, halting the Green Bay run game, and keeping the Packers from making a single play of more than 28 yards, while keeping any of their skill players from getting to even 60 yards rushing or receiving.  And then, at the end of their 20–17 win, I think you got to see the team’s IQ.  About a half hour after the game ended, I had the game’s star, Jahmyr Gibbs (143 yards on 34 touches) on the phone, and asked him about giving himself up on two of his final three runs of the game. On the first one, a first-and-10 from the Green Bay 15 with two minutes left, the Packers tried to let him score. Gibbs figured ahead of the play they might do that, and he was ready. He slid at the 7—though that wasn’t exactly what the coaches wanted.  I told him I thought he did it because, with the Packers holding all their timeouts, putting the Lions in position to run another play or two before picking up the first down would set them up to run out the rest of the clock.  “Yeah, I mean, that’s what I was thinking, too!” he said. “I was like, O.K., this is good. Then it was like, Oh, he wants you to get the first down. I was like, Oh, s---. O.K.”  You know the rest. It worked out. Gibbs got a yard on the next run to set up third-and-1, then, after a false start penalty, converted third-and-6 with an eight-yard gain. He gave himself up at the 3 on that one, setting up a Jared Goff kneeldown and Jake Bates’s winning kick.  There are, of course, merits to going either way, and in a way the Lions did both here.  The bigger thing, though, is the reminder of how that roster was assembled, and how the young core is filled with smart guys like Gibbs who now have the experience to match. It’s also why, before that 10-play, 71-yard drive, the team could survive a Dan Campbell dice roll, where he left the offense on for a fourth-and-1 from the Lions’ own 24 in tie game with 4:53 left.  “I mean, we expect to get every one of those,” Gibbs said. “So we weren’t really worried about anything.”  And because of how the defense was playing—“They told us they have our back, and we have full confidence in that,” Gibbs added—no one was devastated when Packers corner Keisean Nixon tracked down Gibbs from behind on the fourth down. The defense got the stop. The Packers missed a field goal. The Lions took the ball back, and then the game.  Methodically, the Lions squeezed time from the clock, as they inched into Bates’s range.  The goal was twofold. Score, and eliminate any chance the Packers could do the same.  “We want to control the ball,” Gibbs said. “We want to be aggressive. We want to dictate the game. So our philosophy is we finish with the ball. And if we lose with the ball, that’s that. But we don’t want to give the ball back. We want to be in control at all times.”  They certainly were Sunday. As a result, they’re getting closer to controlling the NFC North.  Next week, they’ll get the undefeated Vikings at home. And they couldn’t be more ready for that after riding out some bumps, and injuries, early in the year. Branch and Cade Mays are back now. Joseph will be soon. The team, coming together and beginning to illustrate how Campbell and GM Brad Holmes built it, is starting to roll.  “We’ve been really good,” Gibbs said. “Actually, we started off way better in previous games. I think that was really the only difference. This game, we had two turnovers, could have been three. Usually, we don’t do that. So that part we need to clean up. We left a lot out there. I don’t think the score should have been as close as it was, but we still found a way to win. So, I mean, that’s a positive.”  One of a few on this Sunday for Detroit.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/albert-breer-week-7-nfl-takeaways-hidden-reason-lions-dangerous

NFL Week 7 Lessons: Don’t Be Fooled by the Steelers’ Three-Game Winning Streak (Lions’ defense finally shows improvements - It’s not surprising that the Lions defeated the Packers, 20–17. But few expected Detroit’s defense to stifle an offense that had been rolling for a few weeks and recently got back running back Josh Jacobs.  It was the kind of performance defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard had needed for a long time. It would have been difficult for coach Dan Campbell to continue defending him as his coordinator had Jordan Love lit up this suspect secondary. But Love (27-of-45, 274 yards, two TDs, INT) struggled to connect with emerging second-year wideout Matthew Golden (12 targets, six catches, 39 yards) and probably should have been picked off two or three times if Lions’ defenders hadn’t dropped balls.  Detroit (4–2) held Green Bay (4–3) to 324 yards and only 17 first downs. Perhaps Sheppard figured out what was wrong with his defense over the bye week because the unit looked different on Sunday. It also certainly helped that the team got back versatile safety Brian Branch, who registered an interception in his season debut. Having a reliable defense would go a long way toward bolstering the Lions’ hopes of winning a competitive NFC North. Minnesota leads the division at 6–0, while Chicago sits in second at 5–2.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/nfl-week-7-lessons-don-t-be-fooled-by-steelers

$.10 After NFL Week 7 ($.03: Two NFC teams that everyone fancied as serious contenders entered Week 7 with almost must-win games in national broadcasts. The Detroit Lions and Seattle Seahawks each picked up massive victories that should reinvigorate the teams and the respective fan bases after uneasy starts for both teams. Detroit came first. Hosting Green Bay, the Lions came out of their bye week at 3-2 but looking up at every other team in the loaded NFC North. A dismal pass defense looked like it could be exploited by Packers QB Jordan Love and his speedy supporting cast, which would effectively bury the Lions in the divisional race before the halfway point of the season. That’s not what Dan Campbell or the Lions, nor most of the Detroit fan base, expected coming into a season with all its offensive weapons and strong defensive players. One of those defenders, safety Brian Branch, made his season debut against Green Bay and made it count. Branch picked off an ill-advised Love arm punt and delivered several key tackles in a strong all-around game from the Detroit defense. The Lions had their struggles on fourth downs but held strong in the red zone, aided by two short missed FGs by Packers kicker Trey Smack. Detroit’s offense was the unit that struggled for the home team, plagued by two lost Jahmyr Gibbs fumbles and a couple of truly terrible fourth-down conversion failures. The defense did enough to allow kicker Jake Bates to win it as time expired with a 22-yard field goal, by a 20-17 score that laughed at the pregame over/under total of 54.5.  Detroit desperately needed a win, let alone a quality win like this one. The Seahawks followed it up in the Sunday nightcap with the same outcome, a much-needed win over a good opponent. Seattle dominated the previously unbeaten Chiefs, 20-3, with a fantastic display of complementary football. Sam Darnold and the offense struck in the air with the incredible Jaxson Smith-Njigba (9 catches, 150 yards, 1 TD). Other than one huge mistake just before halftime, Darnold turned in an impressive night versus a very good, aggressive Chiefs defense. Emanuel Wilson ground out 100 yards on the ground, also finding the end zone. It proved more than enough to outscore Kansas City, thanks to a phenomenal display from the Dark Side defense at home.  Seattle’s D suffocated former teammate Kenneth Walker on the ground, and the pass rush and coverage consistently flummoxed and frustrated Patrick Mahomes. Kansas City could not string together positive plays at all. The Seahawks hang their hat on a fast and physical defense, exactly what carried them to a Super Bowl title. That group just hadn’t quite been as sharp, as fierce, as swift. They showed their best against the best offense they’ve faced, and got right back into NFC contender status in the process.  It doesn’t get easier for either Detroit or Seattle next week. Detroit welcomes Minnesota, the last unbeaten team, to Ford Field, while the Seahawks host a dangerous 5-2 Bears squad. Had either lost in Week 7, next week could have been do-or-die. The light at the end of the tunnel is no longer a freight train, but an opportunity for Detroit and Seattle.  Jared Goff needs more love in the MVP conversation. Yeah, really):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3729/$10-After-NFL-Week-7


Lions’ Dan Campbell says his trust in Jared Goff enabled him to take a huge 4th-down gamble:  https://apnews.com/article/lions-analysis-campbell-goff-fourth-down-473b01e567e606bbd770ba9156c11a4d

‘That Was Blasphemous’ — 3-Time Super Bowl Champ Blasts Referees Over ‘Bad’ Officiating During Packers-Lions Showdown:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/super-bowl-champ-referees-packers-lions/

‘Just Ridiculous,’ ‘The League Has To Fix This Rule’ — NFL Fans React As Controversial Calls Mount in Packers-Lions Week 7 Game:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-fans-packers-lions-week-7-refereeing-controversy/

‘Message Coming From the Wrong Person,’ ‘He’s the Reason the League Became Soft’ — NFL Fans Mock Tom Brady for Complaint About Refs:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-fans-mock-tom-brady-complaint-refs/

‘Investigate Them,’ ‘That Was an Awful Call’ — Ex-Packers QB Joins Fans in Calling Out Refs Over Controversial Decision in Favor of Lions:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/ex-packers-qb-fans-refs-lions/

2027 NFL Draft Order After Week 7: All 32 Teams' Biggest Emerging Roster Need (25. Detroit Lions (4-2) - Biggest Need: CB.  The Detroit Lions are allowing a league-high amount of passing yards per game. The alleged Terrion Arnold off-field situation was very unfortunate. The Lions desperately need some cornerbacks who can consistently cover the opposition.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/onsi/news/2027-nfl-draft-order-after-week-7-all-32-teams-biggest-emerging-roster-need

Grades:

Grades: Lions Earn Early Season Statement Win Over Division Rival:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/grades-lions-earn-early-season-statement-win-over-division-rival


We graded every Lions player from the Packers win; Jameson Williams was perfect, but one defender hit a brutal low:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/we-graded-every-lions-player-from-the-packers-win-jameson-williams-was-perfect-but-one-defender-hit-a-brutal-low/

Video:



Packers vs. Lions Week 7 Recap | NFL Daily:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/packers-vs-lions-week-7-recap-nfl-daily

Lions defeat the Packers in Week 7:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-jsts4vh6h4kd88bb

Lions win; Pistons start the year 3-0; Michigan and Michigan St. both lose | Sportsworks Oct. 25:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-tuem9rdhmpas8u8s

There Is No Defense For Campbell's Fourth Down Calls | The Valenti Show with Rico:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/there-is-no-defense-for-campbell-s-fourth-down-calls-the-valenti-show-with-rico-xbrdv9u


Lions win | Awful Officiating? | Costa Sounds Off On A Hutchinson Critic | Costa and Jansen:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/lions-win-awful-officiating-costa-sounds-off-on-a-hutchinson-critic-costa-and-jansen-xbrbt8u


Refs Of Lions/Packers Is Everything Wrong With The NFL | The Valenti Show with Rico:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/refs-of-lions-packers-is-everything-wrong-with-the-nfl-the-valenti-show-with-rico-xbreb26




Lions top Packers 20-17 on last second Jake Bates field goal:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-at8x4yhji0wkwhwa



REACTION: Lions Outlast Packers In Tight Divisional Showdown | HQ NFL:  https://www.cbssports.com/watch/nfl/video/reaction-lions-outlast-packers-in-tight-divisional-showdown-hq-nfl






Officials Become Story in Detroit Lions Win Against Green Bay Packers:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/officials-become-story-detroit-lions-192717597.html


Brian Branch made a massive impact in his return for the Detroit Lions:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/brian-branch-made-massive-impact-142735524.html

Jameer Gibbs Handled Nearly Every Lions Carry Sunday:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/jameer-gibbs-handled-nearly-every-032435245.html

The Lions Just Got A HUGE Boost In Their Win Over The Packers:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/lions-just-got-huge-boost-011317689.html
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