Last Sunday, the Detroit Lions executed another creative trick play, sparking some criticism about its timing.

Head coach Dan Campbell had a perfect response to those questioning the decision.

In the third quarter of the Lions’ game against the Chicago Bears, Detroit unveiled a play now dubbed “Stumble Bum.” Quarterback Jared Goff pretended to stumble while running back Jahmyr Gibbs fell as if he had mishandled the ball, creating the illusion of a fumble.

Meanwhile, Goff found an open Sam LaPorta for a touchdown.

This play resulted in a 34-14 lead for the Lions, effectively sealing their win as the Bears struggled to find any momentum.

Despite the success, critics questioned why the Lions would “waste” such a creative trick play against a struggling opponent like the Bears.

Earlier in the season, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson addressed similar concerns about revealing too many trick plays on tape.

Johnson emphasized his knack for generating fresh ideas, often inspired by studying game footage of division rivals. In some cases, like with the “Stumble Bum,” even players like Goff had to temper Johnson’s more ambitious ideas.

On Christmas Eve, Campbell made his usual appearance on 97.1 The Ticket’s “Costa and Jansen with Heather,” where he was asked about the criticism regarding the use of trick plays in seemingly inconsequential games. His response was clear and confident.

“These plays are designed with specific opponents in mind,” Campbell explained. “When you see an opportunity that fits perfectly against a particular team, you have to act on it.

That’s why we include them in the game plan. There’s no guarantee that same play will work in a future game under different conditions.

If it’s meant for this week, you don’t hold back—you use it.”

Campbell’s reasoning underscores the strategic nature of football.

Spotting a weakness in the opponent, creating a tailored play to exploit it, and executing it during the game is a calculated move.

However, when the Lions perform such plays against teams like the Bears, it’s often dismissed as unnecessary or wasted effort, despite the play being successful.

The “Stumble Bum” is a prime example of Detroit’s offensive creativity this season, which has been a driving force behind their success.

The Lions have shown that taking calculated risks and innovating in-game strategies can be effective, even when some might question the timing or purpose.

This kind of ingenuity has helped Detroit establish itself as a strong contender this season, with Campbell’s leadership and Johnson’s inventive play-calling playing crucial roles.

By capitalizing on unique opportunities, the Lions are proving their adaptability and strategic approach in each game.

The criticism of their decision to use a trick play against the Bears ultimately overlooks the larger context of their success and how these plays align with their goals.

As Campbell highlighted, the ability to recognize and seize an opportunity is what defines a smart, forward-thinking team.

Detroit’s victory over the Bears, and the execution of the “Stumble Bum,” demonstrated not only their dominance but also their willingness to embrace creative solutions to achieve success.

Far from being a “waste,” these moments reflect the team’s preparation, adaptability, and commitment to executing their game plan effectively, no matter the opponent.

In the end, Campbell and his team are focused on their ultimate goal, and their innovative approach to the game is an integral part of their winning formula.

With their ability to think outside the box and execute when it matters most, the Lions are solidifying themselves as a force to be reckoned with this season.