Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell was quick to acknowledge the unusual nature of his team’s recent matchup. The Lions achieved a remarkable 52-14 triumph over the Tennessee Titans, a game that defied conventional football dynamics. Despite amassing only 225 offensive yards—185 less than their typical performance—the Lions managed to put up an impressive 52 points. Quarterback Jared Goff threw three touchdown passes while racking up just 85 yards in the air, with his average pass completion barely beyond one yard.
Goff’s accuracy has reached new heights, completing 88 of 106 passes (an outstanding 83%) over the past five games, surpassing the previous five-game record held by Peyton Manning, who had an 80.2% completion rate with a minimum of 100 attempts. “I can’t really think of a game quite like that one,” Campbell remarked on Monday. “At least not on the winning side. That was unbelievable.”
While the offense did not perform poorly overall—the 52 points scored speaks for itself—it was aided by favorable field position throughout the game. Kalif Raymond excelled in special teams, averaging 38 yards on five punt returns, which included a remarkable 90-yard touchdown run. Khalil Dorsey contributed as well with a notable 72-yard kickoff return. The defense played a crucial role too, forcing four turnovers and punter Jack Fox averaging 61.0 yards on his five kicks.
“You’d obviously love a consistent production from your special teams, but such high performance isn’t typical,” Campbell stated. “When they do shine like that, it significantly eases the burden on the rest of the team.” The Lions may not have needed to reach 400 total yards, but their efficiency in the red zone was spot on, scoring on all five of their attempts.
Campbell highlighted standout performances from players like Jahmyr Gibbs, who showcased his explosiveness, with only one misstep in pass protection. David Montgomery and Sam LaPorta also received nods for their strong play.
Jack Fox’s performance this season has gone relatively unrecognized, yet it has had significant impact, averaging just 3.3 punts per game with an impressive net average of 47.3 yards, surpassing his previous best by 2.5 yards. Furthermore, he has allowed only 40 return yards over 23 punts.
Despite notable accolades, not everything went smoothly for the Lions. They secured just one sack on Titans quarterback Mason Rudolph, who made 39 passing attempts and scrambled for an additional 29 yards. Campbell admitted the challenge of replacing Aidan Hutchinson, who is sidelined for the rest of the regular season with a broken leg. This lack of pressure from the defensive line has begun to strain the secondary.
On the rise is Kalif Raymond, who has consistently posed a threat as a punt returner. He dazzled against the Titans, with a 64-yard return setting up a touchdown in the second quarter, a 90-yard touchdown return in the third quarter, and even catching a touchdown pass later on. However, a penalty negated another impressive 44-yard return.
In the stock-down category, wide receiver Jameson Williams was absent due to a two-game suspension related to NFL substance policy violations. His absence was felt deeply as none of the seven players catching passes could average more than 8.0 yards per reception.
Fortunately, the Lions emerged from the game free from significant injuries. Campbell mentioned Hutchinson remains engaged with the team as he works through rehab, hopeful for a return in the postseason.
A key statistic to highlight is 172—the total points scored by the Lions over their last four games. This accomplishment ranks as the most points scored in a four-game span since the Baltimore Ravens achieved the same number between Weeks 9-12 in 2019.
Looking ahead, the Lions are set to face off against NFC North rival Green Bay Packers in a pivotal game for first place.