For generations, the community has longed for a team like this — filled with skill, bursting with innovation, and featuring an explosive offense. For the first time, saying “Detroit” and “Super Bowl” together might actually make sense.
Before they embarked on an impressive 11-game winning streak, they stood at 12-1 for the season as they approached Sunday.
In Week 15, during a 48-42 defeat against the Buffalo Bills, the Lions injury cart made several distressing appearances, taking away defensive players once again.
Facing a wave of injuries and relying on makeshift solutions, this situation has become a troubling theme in what should be a remarkable season.
Initially, cornerback Carlton Davis III suffered a jaw injury and was unable to return to the game.
Cornerback Khalil Dorsey was taken off the field on a cart due to a severe ankle injury.
Defensive lineman Alim McNeill, an important player who had recently come back from a concussion, was seen limping off the field, heading into the blue tent, and then being taken away on a cart due to a knee injury.
Campbell doesn’t make excuses. He has consistently stated that injuries are an inherent aspect of the game, and it is essential for every player on the field to be skilled and ready to deliver their best performance. It’s exactly what you would hope and anticipate him to express.
The Lions are facing a significant challenge with their injured reserve list, which includes several key defenders. Notable injuries include star defensive end Aiden Hutchinson with a broken leg, defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo dealing with a knee issue, and linebacker Malcom Rodriguez suffering from a torn ACL.
Other players on the list include cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring), safety Ifeatu Melifonwu (undisclosed), and multiple linebackers with various injuries, alongside defensive ends Marcus Davenport, David Bada, John Cominsky, and Nate Lynn, each grappling with their own setbacks.
It’s no surprise that Allen, who requires little assistance, guided the Bills to 498 yards. He accounted for 362 passing yards and two touchdowns, along with 68 rushing yards and two more touchdowns. The Bills made one punt.
The Lions’ defense faced significant challenges, leading Campbell to opt for a bold onside kick while trailing by 10 points with 12 minutes remaining in the game. Many criticized it as reckless, but it likely indicated his doubt in securing a defensive stop.
It also collapsed dramatically when Buffalo’s Mack Hollins brought it back 38 yards to the Lions’ 5.
Shortly after, the Bills found the end zone, extending their lead to a solid 17 points. The Lions continued to fight, attempting another onside kick with just 12 seconds left on the clock.
The Lions’ offense is impressive, showcasing hook and laterals, a touchdown pass to an offensive lineman, and an impressive 494 yards with five touchdown passes from quarterback Jared Goff.
Ultimately, it fell short, and the Lions might end up in a three-way tie for the best record in the NFC by the conclusion of Week 15.
Buffalo secured a tough win in what many considered a potential Super Bowl matchup. It could be. The Bills are a powerful offensive force. Detroit faced a loss, marking the first defeat since September 15 — a complete three-month span.
