The Detroit Lions’ coordinators didn’t hold back during Thursday’s press conferences. Following a tough defeat to the Minnesota Vikings, offensive coordinator John Morton, defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, and special teams coordinator Dave Fipp each stepped to the mic with a clear message — accountability time has arrived.

Here are five players who now find themselves in the spotlight after some brutally honest assessments from Detroit’s coaching staff.

**1. The Offensive Line: “Protection is everything.”

** Morton’s message couldn’t have been clearer — the offense lives or dies by its protection.

“The protection, that was the biggest thing,” Morton told Pride of Detroit. “We draw up all these plays, but it doesn’t matter if we can’t protect. Winning our one-on-ones — that’s what set us back. We had way too many second-and-longs and third-and-longs.”

The Vikings didn’t rely on exotic blitzes to cause chaos; they simply won their battles up front. Morton acknowledged it bluntly: “It’s just some guys getting beat. That’s all it is.”

With veterans like Taylor Decker, Penei Sewell, and Graham Glasgow anchoring the line, the expectation is to regroup quickly. Morton’s bottom line: fix the protection, and the offense will follow.

2. Terrion Arnold: “Run defense isn’t where it needs to be.”

Sheppard praised rookie corner Terrion Arnold for his coverage skills — especially after snagging his first interception — but didn’t mince words about the other side of his game.

“I absolutely see growth with the player in Terrion,” Sheppard said. “In coverage, he’s been outstanding. But the part of TA’s game I need to see improve is the run game and run support. It’s unacceptable right now, and he knows that.”

Arnold has quickly become one of Detroit’s most reliable corners in the passing game. But for him to become a true every-down star, his tackling and physical presence must match his coverage ability.

3. Arthur Maulet: “If it’s crunch time, we want him in man coverage.”

Cornerback Arthur Maulet caught plenty of heat after surrendering the decisive catch against Minnesota. But Sheppard made it clear that his trust in Maulet hasn’t wavered.

“Since we’ve had Arthur, he’s done everything we’ve asked,” Sheppard said. “He made a huge play in the Tampa game — people were calling him Deion Sanders. Then he gives up one play, and it’s all criticism. No, if the game’s on the line, it’s going to be Arthur Maulet in press man.”

It’s a strong show of confidence from his coach — but also a challenge. Maulet’s toughness and leadership are respected; now it’s about delivering when the moment demands it most.

4. Jake Bates: “That blocked field goal? Just a low kick.”

Fipp didn’t dodge responsibility when discussing Jake Bates’ blocked 45-yard attempt last week.

“Blocked field goal was just a low kick,” Fipp stated flatly. “Protection could’ve been a touch better, but ultimately the ball just came off low.”

He went on to explain that Bates’ plant foot “caught the turf a little before the ball,” causing the kick to “hit the ground and bounce upward.”

For the breakout rookie kicker who’s impressed all season, this will be a test of resilience — how quickly can he reset and regain his rhythm?

5. Isaac TeSlaa: “We’ll make sure he gets more chances.”

Morton also revealed that young receiver Isaac TeSlaa is due for more involvement after a quiet outing last week.

“We’re going to get him the ball more,” Morton said. “That also helps our other guys — they won’t have to play 65 or 70 snaps. We’re really happy with where he’s at.”

TeSlaa has shown flashes of potential in limited opportunities, and with Detroit seeking a spark in the passing game, his physical approach could add new energy to the offense.

The tone from Detroit’s coaching staff was unmistakable — accountability and execution are non-negotiable.

The Lions’ coordinators made it clear they believe in their players, but belief alone won’t fix the issues. As they prepare to face the Washington Commanders, the challenge is simple: turn words into results.