For the first time in nearly nine decades, the Detroit Lions are 10-1. With Sunday’s commanding 24-6 win over the Indianapolis Colts, Dan Campbell’s squad etched their names into franchise history, reaching a benchmark last seen during the team’s inaugural 1934 season.
Yet, while the achievement is monumental, Campbell and his team remain laser-focused. “We’re rolling,” Campbell said after the game. “There will be time to look back, but right now, it’s all about staying in the moment.”
Unbeaten on the Road
The Lions’ road dominance this season has been nothing short of remarkable. Sunday’s victory pushed Detroit to 6-0 away from Ford Field, making them the NFL’s last undefeated road team.
This turnaround speaks volumes about Campbell’s impact since taking over in 2021. Back then, the Lions limped to a 3-13-1 record. Fast forward to now, and they’ve transformed into a team that thrives in hostile environments.
“We are road warriors,” quarterback Jared Goff said. “It’s an us-against-the-world mentality, and it’s even better when our fans show up. They’ve been unbelievable.”
The Lions have now won nine consecutive regular-season games, their longest streak since 1934.
A Team Effort
Sunday’s win wasn’t just about offensive firepower. The defense, under coordinator Aaron Glenn, has been a revelation. Detroit hasn’t allowed a touchdown in 10 consecutive quarters—a testament to their discipline and accountability.
- Defensive Dominance: Sunday marked the third time this season Detroit has held an opponent to under 10 points. The last time they achieved such defensive consistency in a season was in 1983.
- Player Leadership: Nose tackle DJ Reader encapsulated the team’s mindset: “We expect to win. It’s not just hope. Excellence is the standard.”
Offensively, Goff continued to lead with precision, finishing with 269 passing yards on 26-for-36 efficiency. Running back David Montgomery added a second-quarter rushing touchdown, while Amon-Ra St. Brown’s reliability in key moments kept the chains moving.
Historical Perspective
This season’s success marks a sharp departure from the Lions’ struggles just two years ago. Campbell reflected on the team’s evolution, highlighting the core group of players who endured the tough times and helped engineer the turnaround.
“It gave me flashbacks to when we couldn’t win on the road,” Campbell said. “Now, we’re 16-5 since then. It’s a testament to the character of this group.”
| Lions’ Key Milestones Under Campbell | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Record | 3-13-1 | 9-8 | 10-1* |
| NFC Championship Game Appearance | – | Yes | TBD |
| Undefeated Road Streak | – | No | 6-0 |
| *Through Week 12 |
Thanksgiving Showdown Awaits
The Lions now shift their focus to their annual Thanksgiving Day game, where they’ll host the Chicago Bears. A victory would mark their first Thanksgiving win since 2016 and further solidify their position atop the NFC.
While the team continues to embrace its newfound success, running back David Montgomery offered a poignant reflection on their identity.
“This is the land of misfit toys,” Montgomery said. “We’re not proving anyone wrong. We’re proving ourselves right. That’s what makes this special.”
Key Takeaways from the Game
- Dominant Defense: Detroit’s defense continues to set the tone, holding opponents scoreless in the red zone for three straight games.
- Resilient Offense: Goff’s efficiency and Montgomery’s physicality ensure the Lions remain balanced and dangerous.
- Road Prowess: The 6-0 road record is emblematic of a team that has embraced the challenge of playing away from home.
With the Lions firing on all cylinders, Campbell’s mantra of staying focused seems to be resonating. As they prepare for the stretch run, Detroit’s sights are firmly set on breaking even more barriers.
