Detroit Lions’ Quarterback Talks Team’s Road to Success and What Lies Ahead
The Detroit Lions’ impressive 24-6 victory over the Indianapolis Colts propelled them to a 10-1 record, a remarkable achievement that speaks to the team’s growth and development. Quarterback Jared Goff shared his thoughts on the game, the performance of the defense, and what lies ahead as the Lions continue to push for excellence.
Defensive Dominance: “They’re Playing Pretty Dang Good”
When asked about the defense’s performance, Goff was quick to praise their recent form. “They’re playing pretty dang good right now,” he said. “What they’ve been doing the last two games has been pretty impressive. I think you even go back to the Houston second half, right? I don’t think they’ve allowed a touchdown. Pretty tough to do, and they’re playing good ball.”
This defensive success has been key to the Lions’ impressive season, with the team tightening up in the red zone and ensuring opponents struggle to score.
The Impact of Tim Patrick: “He’s a Great Ball Player”
Goff also took a moment to highlight the value of wide receiver Tim Patrick. “He’s great,” Goff said. “He just does the right thing over and over and over again. He’s a big body. He’s got great hands. He catches the ball away from his body. In traffic, I trust him. I know I can throw it in there and know that he’s going to go grab it.”
This trust and confidence in his teammates are critical for Goff, as he works to lead the offense effectively.
The Value of Two Running Backs: “We’ve Got Two Bell Cows”
A crucial component of the Lions’ offensive strategy has been the effectiveness of their running backs. “We’ve got two bell cows, and it’s rare,” Goff explained. “We have two guys that you can hand the ball to a ton. Like you said, one of them goes down there for a little bit, the other guy steps up.”
Goff acknowledges how fortunate the team is to have two capable backs, something that adds depth and flexibility to their playcalling.
Confidence on Third and Fourth Downs: “It Becomes Almost Second-and-Eight”
When the Lions are in a third-down situation, Goff noted, their mindset is often to play for a potential fourth down. “We were feeling pretty confident they were going to call one of their third down calls, and our run should be pretty good. At the very least, we’ll get into fourth-and-short and go for it.”
This strategy reflects the team’s aggressive approach to the game, trusting that their ability to execute will help them sustain drives.
Road Warriors: “We’re Us Against the World”
One of the key themes Goff emphasized after the game was the team’s resilience on the road. “We come together on the road. We’re road warriors,” he said. “We love it. We come together on the road. We are us against the world mentality.”
He noted how the Lions have built a strong reputation as a team that thrives away from home, citing the team’s 16-5 record since the 2022 season’s first road win.
Fan Support: “They Show Up to Change the Game”
Goff expressed his gratitude for the Lions’ fanbase, particularly their loyal support on the road. “Our fans don’t just go to the game, they go to the game to affect the game,” he remarked. “They certainly do that at home, and then even today on the road. They show up to change the game, to affect the game.”
This level of fan support has not gone unnoticed by Goff, who takes pride in the connection between the team and its passionate followers.
Looking Ahead: “We’ve Got Another Big Test”
Despite the excitement of back-to-back 10-win seasons, Goff emphasized that the team is not resting on its laurels. “It’s pretty cool, really cool,” he said of the milestone. “Obviously like you said, the turnaround has been awesome. We’re excited, but by no means are we satisfied and complacent.”
Goff’s mentality reflects the Lions’ desire to stay focused and hungry for continued success, especially with a division rivalry game coming up and the goal of ending their Thanksgiving losing streak.
Overcoming Injuries: “A Little Bit of Chaos”
In a game marked by a few injuries, Goff highlighted how the team overcame moments of confusion. “There was a little bit of chaos going on in the huddle, trying to figure out who was where,” he admitted. “But yeah, our guys settled in nicely once that happened.”
The ability of the team to stay composed under pressure speaks to their mental toughness and commitment to executing, no matter the circumstances.
Jared Goff and the Detroit Lions are not just celebrating their successes but also keeping their eyes on the bigger picture. As they continue their journey, they are driven by a sense of purpose and an unwavering belief that their best football is still ahead of them.
