ALLEN PARK, Mich. – Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell said the team is starting Alim McNeill‘s clock, acknowledging the four-year veteran’s nervousness but readiness to begin practicing.
Campbell apologized to the opposing players who will have to line up against McNeill, emphasizing the defensive tackle’s preparedness and eagerness to compete.
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Cincinnati Bengals
Discussing the upcoming matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, Campbell noted their record is 2-2 and they are looking for a win.
Campbell praised Cincinnati’s coach, Zac Taylor, for building a special team with talented players.
He mentioned star players Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, highlighting the Bengals’ quarterback, Jake Browning, as capable, and their running back, Chase Brown, as explosive, able to find creases and take it to the end zone.
Campbell also mentioned the returner Charlie Jones and key defensive players like Tedarrell Slaton, former Michigan Wolverines cornerback Daxton Hill, Trey Hendrickson, and Logan Wilson, calling them good players.
He said the Bengals have good players all around, including their nickel defender, Mike Hilton, and the Lions need to be ready for the challenge on the road.
Campbell said the Bengals’ offense hasn’t changed much without Joe Burrow, continuing to throw the ball frequently and look for matchups with their two top receivers.
Penei Sewell
When asked about player Penei Sewell‘s growth, Campbell said Sewell continues to do rare things with his athletic ability, explosiveness, tenacity, and football intelligence.
He believes the 24-year-old offensive tackle is still scratching the surface of his potential.
“He busts his tail, works every day in practice, and doesn’t take plays off,” Campbell said, crediting Sewell’s work ethic for his success.
Tyler Lacy
Regarding Tyler Lacy, who was picked up off waivers, Campbell praised his hard play, length, edge-setting ability, and versatility in playing both nose tackle and defensive end positions.
Three-game sackless streak
Campbell addressed the Lions’ three-game sackless streak but noted the offensive line’s strong work and quarterback Jared Goff‘s ability to maintain pocket presence and mobility as key factors in avoiding sacks.
He credited the receivers for getting open with speed and urgency, which helps the passing game succeed despite pressure.
On Goff’s durability and availability, Campbell called it the greatest asset a player can possess, praising Goff’s toughness and ability to recover from hits.
Aidan Hutchinson
Discussing rookie Aidan Hutchinson carrying a water jug, Campbell said it reminded him of old-school players and showed Hutchinson’s commitment to taking care of his body.
Josh Paschal
When asked about Josh Paschal‘s return, Campbell said Paschal is improving but is not yet ready.
Amon-Ra St. Brown
Campbell praised receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown for his consistent, high-level play over the past four and a half years, highlighting his will to win and work ethic.
Lions defense
On the defense, Campbell explained the value of man coverage corners, saying sticky coverage forces quarterbacks to hold the ball longer, leading to sacks, turnovers, and an aggressive defensive identity.
He emphasized the team’s standards and identity, saying they won’t sacrifice those for anyone and must put in good work to be ready for Cincinnati.
Scottie Montgomery
Campbell discussed moving Scottie Montgomery from running back’s coach to receiver’s coach, saying Montgomery’s knowledge of both the pass game and run game makes him a huge asset in helping receivers understand blocking and routes.