The Detroit Lions continue searching for more consistency in their rushing attack, especially in matchups where opponents have shown vulnerability on the ground.
Going into their game against the Philadelphia Eagles, many expected Detroit to lean heavily on its run game, considering how much Philadelphia had struggled to stop opponents on the ground earlier in the season.
After Detroit’s Week 11 road loss — in which the team averaged just 3.5 yards per carry — head coach Dan Campbell made it clear that the production wasn’t up to their standard.
When asked by Lions OnSI after a team walkthrough about David Montgomery’s recent usage, particularly in short-yardage situations, Campbell didn’t hesitate.
> “I always want to get David more carries. Always.”
Despite that, Montgomery finished the game with only six rushing attempts for 27 yards, while Jahmyr Gibbs logged 12 carries and gained 39 yards.
Campbell reiterated that fixing the offense won’t fall on one player, but will require every unit — especially the offensive line — to elevate its performance.
He emphasized that he still trusts his linemen, noting that improved chemistry and execution will be essential moving forward.
> “I believe in these guys. The more they play together and settle in, the better we’ll get,” Campbell said. “Every matchup is different. There were a few things I wish I’d approached differently yesterday — ways we could’ve attacked them that might’ve helped our guys out.
My mind’s always spinning with possibilities — different looks, different approaches. But ultimately, I trust this group. They’re talented and they understand how to work together. We just have to be more consistent, and that includes everyone.”
Even after the defeat, Detroit sits at 6–4 and now returns home for a three-game stretch at Ford Field.
Campbell expressed optimism about the direction of the offense.
> “We’re right there. And when we’re clicking, we can be dangerous. Jamo’s really hitting his stride. Gibbs is taking off. I’m not concerned about Goff and Amon-Ra — that connection is always there. Yesterday was just one of those days.
If all of us raise our level, myself included, we’re going to be in great shape.”
