“This will be a big challenge at their place, but once again, looking forward to this. This is why you’re in it,” Campbell said.

Campbell discussed the Rams’ offensive personnel, noting a shift from 11 personnel to a lot of 13 personnel this year.

“I think a lot of this under-center run gives them a chance to really lean on you a little bit,” Campbell said.

Campbell explained that the run game has become more of a concerted effort, which helps receivers get a break and adds unpredictability when they switch back to 11 personnel.

The Lions head coach also praised the Rams’ tight ends for their versatility and the offensive coordinator’s ability to put players in the best position to succeed.

“Sean McVay’s always done a good job of using the roster, the totality of it, as much as you can use your personnel,” Campbell said.

When asked about Michigan Wolverines legend and College Football Playoff national champion running back Blake Corum, Campbell said the run game has become more dangerous over the last four games.

“If you can run the ball, it becomes very dangerous because now you have to honor the run,” Campbell said.

Corum gained 128 yards and two touchdown’s against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 14.

He noted that the Rams have a one-two punch in the backfield with two power backs who are quick, explosive, and versatile, like Corum and Kyren Williams.

Stafford

Campbell talked about the challenge of defending a quarterback like Stafford, who is skilled at manipulating safeties with his eyes.

“You do the best you can for them to understand that he will try to manipulate you,” Campbell said.

Campbell stressed the importance of playing keys and moving rather than just sitting and being baited by the quarterback.

He also highlighted the need to cause disruption up front to force takeaways.

Campbell addressed the Stafford trade, calling it a win-win for both teams.

“We’re fortunate to have the guy we have and to get all that we were able to get,” Campbell said. “I know it feels like a win for us, and I’m sure they feel the same.”

Brian Branch

Campbell addressed the injury to safety Brian Branch, who is out for the season with an Achilles injury.

“Anytime you lose somebody like BB, it’s going to hurt. He’s a productive player and a great locker room guy,” Campbell said.

→ Detroit Lions sign veteran to practice squad after Brian Branch’s Achilles tear

However, Campbell expressed confidence in the replacements, including Avonte Maddox, who “did a hell of a job” stepping in, and other players like Daniel Thomas, Erick Hallett, and newly signed Damontae Kazee, who provide options in the secondary.

Regarding safety Thomas Harper, Campbell said he is still in concussion protocol with no setbacks, but it is uncertain if he will return this season.

“If we could get Harper back, that would be really good, too,” Campbell said.

Final quarter of season

On the mindset for the final quarter of the season, Campbell said the approach remains the same: “You’ve got to win.”

Campbell emphasized the importance of focusing on each game as it comes, just like they did against Dallas.

“We had to find a way to win that game, and we did everything right relative to that game,” Campbell said. “We’ve got to play better to beat this team we’re getting ready to face.”

Mini bye weeks

On the topic of mini bye weeks, Campbell acknowledged the difficulty of the schedule stretch but said the team needed the breather.

“You get a couple of days off, catch your breath, and now we get ready for the Rams,” Campbell said.

He described the practice approach as smart and balanced with mental reps and walkthroughs to keep players fresh.

Complementary football

Campbell reflected on the team’s best complementary football performance of the season in their win over Dallas.

“Maybe a long time. It’s been a while,” Campbell said when asked why the team clicked so well.

Campbell emphasized the importance of takeaways in the game.

“The takeaways go a long way,” Campbell said.

He highlighted the impact of field position gained through returns, mentioning Tom Kennedy‘s big contribution in the return game.

Campbell described how the team pinned Dallas inside the four-yard line and nearly forced a safety.

“We get a stop, we get a takeaway, we turn it into seven,” Campbell said.

The Lions converted multiple takeaways into points, creating a 14-point swing that helped secure the victory.

Maintaining momentum

Campbell noted the team’s ability to maintain momentum despite setbacks.

“If something went against us, the other unit picked it up,” Campbell said. “They score, we score. They score, we score.”

Special teams also played a crucial role.

“We get it to the 45, there’s a return to the minus 45. Those are huge,” Campbell said. He concluded, “When you can do that in a game, that’s how you win games in this league.”

Regarding the development of player Miles Frazier, Campbell said it is hard to say if he is ready to start, but every rep helps.

“Those are real reps against real opponents,” Campbell said.

Campbell also mentioned that Christian Mahogany is starting to feel good enough to work into practice, but does not expect a lot this week.

Campbell praised the linebacker corps for their impact, especially with injuries in the secondary.

He highlighted Jack Campbell‘s aggressive play style and ability to go after the football, which pays dividends for the team.