DETROIT – “Today was one of our better practices all year and we got after it,” an optimistic Jared Goff told the media on Tuesday. The Lions play the division rival Minnesota Vikings this Sunday, and their go-to guys are locked in.
Aidan Hutchinson just signed a record-breaking contract, and Brian Branch is coming off a one-game suspension and a bye week.
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Branch was asked what fans can expect from him upon his return. “A relentless effort and aggression,” he revealed.
He commented that the suspension just added another chip to his shoulder and he will still be playing with his fiery nature, but this time only between the whistle and he won’t be retaliating when other players pick at him for a reaction.
When asked about Dan Campbell, Kelvin Sheppard, and Jim O’Neil standing up for him and speaking to his character, he said it “Means a lot.”
He continued, “I shot my team in the foot, and they had my back. I’d go to war for them any day of the week.”
Aidan Hutchinson said of Branch’s return, “He’s the heart and soul of the defense,” and called him a “Tone setter.”
Hutchinson had a ton of high praise to go around. He called being out on the field with Alim McNeill and feeling his pressure “Electric,” and his defense “Dynamic.”
Of Al-Quadin Muhammed, “He’s made the most of his opportunity,” and credited his mindset and abilities to his performance this year. He spoke of Muhammed’s rush being complimentary to his own and how well he does on the inside.
When asked about the Lions needing another edge rusher and if it was top of mind, Hutchinson responded with a smile, “I mean, where do we rank in the sacks right now?”
The Lions certainly do a lot of things well, but with the growth mindset of the organization, there’s always room for improvement.
Jared Goff was asked about the Lions’ third down struggles, he assured the issue is just execution. “We have to convert and last week we weren’t good enough.”
The third down struggles are relatively uncharacteristic for the Lions, so there is no doubt they will get back on course as they chase a second consecutive NFC North title and more importantly, a Superbowl.