Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell is facing some backlash, but the team’s loyal supporters aren’t having it.
Lions fans are known for their dedication, having endured years of ups and downs. It takes unwavering loyalty to back a team that has yet to reach the Super Bowl.
Now, some fans are frustrated over the criticism aimed at Campbell’s bold play calling. He has a reputation for being highly aggressive, frequently opting to go for it on fourth down. This approach is ingrained in his coaching style, and most Lions fans support it. However, such high-risk decisions also make Campbell an easy target for NFL analysts and experts who prefer a more conservative approach.
Professional sports handicapper Steve Fezzik weighed in during the March 27 episode of the Even Money Podcast with Ross Tucker. When Campbell’s play calling was discussed, Fezzik didn’t hold back, suggesting that his aggressive strategy might cost the Lions in the upcoming season.
“The Lions are like (pro poker player) Chris Moneymaker. They figured things out ahead of the rest of the NFL: We should go for it more often,” he said. “That gave them an edge, but their choices aren’t always optimal. They take unnecessary risks.”
He continued by criticizing Campbell’s willingness to gamble in tough spots. “They go for it on fourth-and-goal from the six just because that’s what we do. They went for it when leading by 14 in the playoffs instead of kicking a field goal to go up 17 against San Francisco (in the NFC Championship Game) late in the third quarter. Mistake.”
That decision in the San Francisco game is one Lions fans won’t soon forget. But Fezzik didn’t stop there.
“Now that other NFL teams that were previously too timid have adjusted and become more strategic, the Lions’ over-aggressiveness will actually put them at a disadvantage this season,” he added.
Lions fans quickly came to Campbell’s defense, unwilling to accept the criticism.
“So when Dan Campbell takes risks, it’s reckless, but when other coaches do it, it’s considered a brilliant decision?” one fan questioned.
“Uninformed opinions are still opinions, I guess. Steve is just wrong,” another commented.
“You clearly don’t watch Lions games. Stop talking about them if you don’t actually understand how they operate,” said another.
One more fan insisted, “This guy knows nothing about Dan Campbell.”
It’s unclear if Campbell has heard Fezzik’s comments or, if so, what he thinks of them. However, it’s highly unlikely that he’ll abandon his aggressive, Dan Gamble approach anytime soon.
