From the coaches down to the locker room leaders, the Detroit Lions entered Week 10 against the Washington Commanders not seeking payback — but redemption.

Last year’s postseason collapse to Washington still lingers in Detroit’s memory, but their recent 27–24 defeat to Minnesota hurt even more. That loss showcased a Lions team far removed from the hard-nosed, gritty identity Dan Campbell has instilled.

Knowing that another conference loss could have major playoff implications, Detroit made adjustments — and they paid off. The Lions rolled to a 44–22 victory, improving to 6–3 and holding tight to second place in the NFC. More importantly, they looked like themselves again.

Even though Detroit entered the game with the league’s second-ranked scoring offense (29.9 PPG), this was the first time in weeks they truly looked like a juggernaut. The difference? A major shift in offensive leadership.

Quarterback

Give Jared Goff time to work, and he’ll carve up a defense. The protection held up beautifully, letting him complete 76% of his throws for 320 yards, three touchdowns, and a 135.9 passer rating. Goff spread the ball efficiently, connecting with seven different targets — five of whom caught at least three passes. While his MVP buzz has cooled in recent weeks, Sunday’s showing proved he still belongs among the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.
Grade: A+

Running Backs

The “Sonic and Knuckles” backfield tandem came roaring back to life. Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery split carries evenly (15 apiece), with Montgomery grinding out 71 yards and Gibbs exploding for 142 and two rushing scores, including a dazzling 43-yard sprint to the end zone. Gibbs added three receptions for 30 yards and another touchdown through the air. Getting both backs involved early set the tone for a dominant rushing day.
Grade: A

Wide Receivers & Tight Ends

Detroit’s receiving corps put together a steady and versatile performance. Amon-Ra St. Brown led the way with five catches for 58 yards and a touchdown — complete with a playful “presidential” celebration. Rookie tight end Sam LaPorta continued to shine with five grabs for 53 yards, while Kalif Raymond turned in his best outing of the year, snagging all four of his targets for 49 yards.

But the afternoon belonged to Jameson Williams. The speedy wideout shredded Washington’s secondary, working the middle and taking advantage of crossing routes. He finished with six receptions for 119 yards and a touchdown — his breakout game of the season and proof his expanded role is paying off.
Grade: A

Offensive Line

Despite losing Christian Mahogany and briefly seeing Penei Sewell and Graham Glasgow leave with minor injuries, Detroit’s offensive line barely missed a beat. Kayode Awosika stepped in admirably, and the unit kept Goff upright all afternoon — not allowing a sack or tackle for loss. Their dominance up front paved the way for 546 total yards of offense and gave the Lions’ playmakers room to operate.
Grade: A

Defensive Line

While Aidan Hutchinson’s stat line was modest — two pressures, one QB hit, and a pass deflection — the group as a whole controlled the line of scrimmage. Roy Lopez had a standout game, tallying five tackles, two for loss, and half a sack. Washington’s ground attack never got going, averaging just 3.4 yards per carry and failing to break a run longer than nine yards. A strong bounce-back effort after struggling against Green Bay’s run game last week.
Grade: A-

Linebackers

Jack Campbell made one of the game’s defining plays, stuffing a two-point conversion attempt that set the tone for Detroit’s defense. He and Alex Anzalone were all over the field, combining for 14 tackles and keeping Washington’s rushing attack contained. Solid, disciplined play throughout.
Grade: B

Secondary

The secondary had a few shaky moments. Rookie Jaylin Lane beat Brian Branch on a deep 41-yard reception that set up Washington’s first touchdown. Later, with Terrion Arnold sidelined by a concussion, Rock Ya-Sin gave up a 37-yard completion. Marcus Mariota completed 73% of his passes, and the Commanders added a late touchdown once the game was decided. Still, Branch flashed his versatility by recording 1.5 sacks off blitzes. Not their sharpest day, but serviceable.
Grade: C

Special Teams

Special teams continue to cause concern. For the second straight week, kicker Jake Bates had a kick blocked — this time an extra point — though he did go 3-for-3 on field goals. The coverage unit also struggled, surrendering a 46-yard return to Noah Igbinoghene. A few bright spots, but still too many lapses.
Grade: C

Coaching

When it looked like opponents had solved John Morton’s offense — with stalled drives and uninspired play-calling — Dan Campbell stepped in and changed the tone instantly. Taking over the headset himself, Campbell orchestrated a masterclass. The balance between the run and pass, the tempo, and the precision in play-action all stood out. The Lions piled up 546 yards and 44 points without punting once.

Whether Morton resumes control later in the year remains to be seen, but for now, Campbell’s leadership reminded everyone what this team is capable of when it’s firing on all cylinders.