The Detroit Lions should have been in high spirits on Monday.

After all, they had just triumphed over the Dallas Cowboys 47-9, marking their most impressive victory under Dan Campbell. Fox commentator Tom Brady claimed they were the best team in the NFC.

Instead, they’re facing the aftermath of a broken leg suffered by star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. The league’s top pass rusher this season remained in Dallas on Monday for surgery to repair his fractured tibia and fibula.

“The surgery went well — it’s all positive news — but losing Hutch is tough. He’s a captain, a highly effective player, and an exemplary teammate,” Campbell stated. “So, it stings. It really does to lose a guy like that — both as a player and as a person.”

The expected recovery is 4 to 6 months, likely positioning Hutchinson to return for training camp in 2025. However, Campbell isn’t ready to dismiss Hutchinson’s potential for a comeback in 2024.

“I would never count Hutch out,” he remarked. “Yes, it will be a long road ahead, but if anyone can do it, it’s him.”

In the meantime, the Lions must find a way to fill the void left by Hutchinson’s pass rush for the next 12 games. While a trade for someone like Raiders star Maxx Crosby could be an option, Campbell doesn’t anticipate that general manager Brad Holmes will act hastily.

“(Injuries) happen every year, and Brad is always seeking improvements,” he said. “Is there a player out there who can assist us? At what price? It must be the right fit — everything has to align. Honestly, I trust the guys we have here.”

“We’re assessing and evaluating.”

What’s working

Quarterback Jared Goff followed his perfect game against Seattle with another stellar outing against the Cowboys. Over the two games, Goff has completed 36 of 43 passes (83.7%) for five touchdowns and no interceptions — plus a touchdown catch against the Seahawks. The Lions have collectively scored 89 points.

What needs help

Despite their best efforts, the Lions couldn’t manage to get any offensive linemen into the end zone on Sunday. Still reeling from Taylor Decker’s 2-point conversion last season at Dallas being called back due to a disputed penalty, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson devised plays for Decker, a hook-and-lateral from Amon-Ra St. Brown to Penai Sewell, and a screen pass to lineman Dan Skipper.

Decker couldn’t secure the catch in the end zone, Sewell’s reception was negated by another penalty, and backup quarterback Hendon Hooker was sacked before reaching Skipper.

Stock up

CB Terrion Arnold, Detroit’s first-round pick in 2024, struggled with penalties throughout the season. Against the Cowboys, he avoided any flags and played a key role in limiting CeeDee Lamb to seven catches for 89 yards on 14 targets.

Injuries

On the same drive during which Hutchinson was hurt, CB Carlton Davis exited with a head injury. However, Davis has cleared the concussion protocol and will be able to practice this week.

Key number

251 — The total yards gained by Dallas. In the Lions’ 42-29 victory over Seattle, the defense allowed 516 yards, raising concerns about Detroit’s secondary. That concern dissipated against the Cowboys.