Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell was noticeably calmer than usual when addressing his team after Monday night’s victory at Ford Field.

Known for his fiery, high-energy speeches that often resemble the intensity of a professional wrestler, Campbell typically delivers passionate, emotional messages filled with raw emotion and colorful language following big wins.

This time, however, while the trademark energy was still present, his words carried more precision and focus as he spoke to his locker room following the Lions’ 24-9 triumph over the NFC-leading Tampa Bay Buccaneers — a game in which Detroit’s defense completely dictated the outcome, securing their fifth win of the year.

“How about that defense? Nine points allowed, 4-for-16 on third down, one interception, one fumble recovery, and 252 total yards,” Campbell began, addressing the team. “That’s phenomenal defense, fellas. We did what we needed to do. Sure, we’ve got things to clean up, but defense like that wins every game. That’s how you let it rip — just like we talked about.”

Following his speech, Campbell awarded three game balls. The first went to running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who recorded a career-best 218 total yards and two touchdowns in the victory.

Traditionally, players give a short speech after receiving a game ball, but the usually reserved Gibbs chose not to speak, instead setting the ball beside his offensive line — specifically honoring tackle Penei Sewell for paving the way.

The second game ball went to linebacker Jack Campbell, who anchored the defense with eight tackles, one sack, one quarterback hit, two tackles for loss, and one pass defended.

“Appreciate you guys,” the rookie linebacker said. “DBs, amazing job today. Let’s keep this energy rolling.”

The third and final game ball was presented to another front-seven standout, someone Dan Campbell praised heavily in front of the team.

“This dude has been on the rise for a while,” Campbell said. “He’s been playing great football, super versatile. Having him back means a lot — five tackles, a sack, a QB hit, a tackle for loss, and a pass breakup. Come on up, Derrick Barnes.”

Barnes opened his remarks with emotion, saying, “Man, it feels incredible to be back. That recovery was long, bro. Being here again means everything to me.”

He then decided to give his game ball to defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, whom he called his “big brother,” crediting the coach for setting the defensive tone and guiding the team through adversity leading up to the game.

“Y’all already know, man — I’m nothing without y’all,” Sheppard said passionately. “This league has always been about players, and it always will be. That’s what made me proud to take this job. This is just the start.

“Do you see who we can be? It doesn’t matter who’s lined up — nameless, faceless — we just play. I love every one of y’all, man. D. Barnes, this one’s yours.”

Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, who scored the team’s first touchdown, then stepped forward to close things out, rallying his teammates in a huddle and encouraging them to stay focused and hungry.

The Lions now head into their bye week at 5-2 and will return to Ford Field on Nov. 2 to take on their division rival, the Minnesota Vikings.