It’s officially different. For how long and how far, we’ll see. But for now, the Lions are doing things they’ve rarely done, and doing them in ways we’ve rarely seen.
Thanksgiving is coming, and unlike many years, the Lions aren’t cooked. Not even stuffed. They won their third straight, second straight on the road, and did it in punishing fashion. They hammered the New York Giants 31-18 Sunday, looking composed and confident, almost as if they’re getting used to it.
These are the complementary ingredients the Lions long have sought, and are starting to find in Dan Campbell’s second season. Sharp, efficient quarterback play from Jared Goff. Timely turnovers by an opportunistic defense, led by Aidan Hutchinson and Kerby Joseph. A dependable ground attack, led by Jamaal Williams’ three touchdowns. A smart game plan with creativity and physicality. Stuff like that leads to stuff like this, and yeah, I’ll go ahead and say it: Playoff talk.