Lions Aim to Revive Struggling Run Game

After a disappointing start to the season, the Detroit Lions are determined to revitalize their ground game. In their opening match against the Green Bay Packers, the Lions managed a meager 2.1 yards per carry on 22 attempts—one of their worst performances under coach Dan Campbell.

That outing was a stark reminder of their struggles, especially when the team was missing key players like Jahmyr Gibbs and lost David Montgomery to injury. The Lions know that a strong rushing attack is crucial to their offensive success, and the pressure is on to turn things around.

Coach Campbell’s Commitment to Change

Coach Dan Campbell is adamant about addressing these issues head-on. "We’re going to fix this," he asserted. Campbell emphasized the importance of focus and footwork during practice, promising a commitment to refining every detail on the field. "We will get it right, and we will be much better," he declared with conviction.

Communication Breakdown: A Barrier to Success

The Lions faced multiple challenges last week, including breakdowns in communication on the offensive line. Left tackle Taylor Decker provided insight into these issues, noting that mixed signals led to unreliable execution on critical plays. "It was miscommunication; some guys weren’t on the same page, which caused confusion on the field," Decker explained.

Critics were quick to blame Detroit's young guards, but Decker defended his teammates, insisting that everyone on the line played a role in the miscommunication, pointing to a moment when rookie guard Tate Ratledge missed a block that could have resulted in a safety.

Quarterback Jared Goff Takes Responsibility

Quarterback Jared Goff also took responsibility for the miscommunication. He acknowledged that with the noisy environment at Lambeau Field, ensuring clarity in signals is imperative. Goff is determined to hone their communication this week, saying, "I need to simplify the calls and make sure every player knows exactly what we're running."

Center Changes Bring Additional Challenges

With Graham Glasgow stepping in for retired All-Pro Frank Ragnow, the center position has seen its share of challenges. Decker pointed out that the Packers' defensive strategies complicated timing for Glasgow’s communications, making it harder for the line to sync up.

Looking Forward to Sunday’s Game

With a clear understanding of the issues, the Lions are focused on fixing their faults before they face their next opponent. The excitement is palpable as fans are eager to see if the team can bounce back with a stronger performance in their upcoming game.

As the Lions prepare, it’s clear that a revamped ground game is not just a goal but a necessity for their success this season.