ALLEN PARK, Mich. – Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell discussed the team’s upcoming game against the Minnesota Vikings, calling them a strong divisional opponent with a talented roster, along with former Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
Campbell praised Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson as outstanding and highlighted the young, mobile quarterback’s big arm and accuracy.
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He noted the Vikings have many weapons on offense, including Jordan Addison and former Lions tight end T.J. Hockenson.
Defensively, Campbell commended coordinator Brian Flores for a disruptive defense that forces turnovers, citing their five takeaways against the Cincinnati Bengals this season, including two returned for touchdowns.
Campbell mentioned key defensive players, including former Wolverines safety Josh Metellus, Jonathan Greenard, Javon Hargrave, Jonathan Allen, Ivan Pace Jr., Blake Cashman, Isaiah Rodgers, and Byron Murphy, emphasizing their ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt plays.
Special teams also remain active and physical.
Campbell said the game will be a big test at home, but the Lions are looking forward to the challenge.
On managing expectations, Campbell emphasized the importance of internal standards over external expectations, focusing on meeting the team’s standards rather than external pressure.
Campbell told players the NFC is very competitive, especially at this point in the season, and that November will reveal which teams rise or fall.
The Lions’ priority, according to Campbell, was to win their division, starting with the Vikings game.
Regarding the Vikings’ young quarterback in McCarthy, Campbell noted his poise and ability to overcome early struggles, calling him a winner with pro-style experience.
The Vikings will try to support him by establishing a run-and-screen game, with key players like Jordan Mason, Aaron Jones, and Jefferson serving as catalysts.
Campbell praised Vikings defensive end Redmond as disruptive and noted the defense’s penetrating style under Flores, which remains consistent with past years despite some changes.
On the Lions’ offensive line, Campbell highlighted the impact of center Graham Glasgow, who has stabilized the middle and helped younger players improve.
Campbell called Graham an ultimate pro who plays consistently every day.
He said the team did not meet with McCarthy, coming off a College Football Playoff National Championship with the Wolverines in 2023, during the draft process, acknowledging he was expected to be drafted quickly.
Campbell described McCarty as a mobile quarterback with a big arm and good decision-making skills.
Comparing this Vikings team to last year’s, Campbell said both teams are different and still improving.
He said both are trying to find the best ways to move the ball, stop opponents, and gain an advantage on special teams.
Regarding the Vikings’ third-down defense, Campbell said they use pressure and multiple coverages, mixing man and zone looks to confuse quarterbacks.
Campbell stressed the importance of avoiding third-and-long situations, as the Vikings excel at forcing turnovers and sacks in those scenarios.
The Lions aim to be strong on first down to improve their third-down chances.
On injuries, Campbell said offensive tackle Taylor Decker is expected to practice Thursday (Oct. 30) after missing some sessions.
Defensive lineman Marcus Davenport is improving but still has no definitive return date.
Running back Sione Vaki has been practicing and looks good.
Campbell explained the challenges of managing injured-reserve decisions and balancing roster needs with recovery timelines.
He praised the team’s staff for handling the process well.
The 5-2 Lions will host the 3-4 Vikings on Sunday, Nov. 2, inside Ford Field in a tough divisional showdown.