Dan Campbell made a significant change last week that paid immediate dividends Sunday when the Detroit Lions demolished the Washington Commanders 44-22. The head coach took over playcalling duties from first-year offensive coordinator John Morton following an honest conversation last Monday, one day after the Lions suffered a stunning home loss to the Minnesota Vikings. The decision ignited an offensive explosion that saw Detroit score on eight consecutive drives while racking up a season-high 546 total yards.
Campbell met with Morton for what he described as an honest discussion about making changes. He told his coordinator that he needed him but felt this was something he needed to do himself. The conversation could have created tension or awkwardness, but Morton handled it with professionalism and grace according to everyone involved. Campbell praised Morton as all-team, someone who just wants to win and be part of the success however possible.
The offensive coordinator remained outstanding throughout the week, grinding through preparations and providing whatever help the team needed for the game. Campbell acknowledged that it probably doesn’t feel great from Morton’s perspective, but credited him for being a pro who understands the business and moves forward without creating drama. That kind of response from a coordinator who just had playcalling duties stripped away speaks to both Morton’s character and Campbell’s ability to navigate a potentially explosive situation.
Revenge served with a side of eyeglasses
The matchup carried extra significance given Washington upset the top-seeded Lions in the NFC divisional round last January. This rematch represented an opportunity for revenge, and Detroit seized it completely. Campbell was spotted on the sideline wearing eyeglasses while talking into his headset between plays with a play sheet in his hands, a look that drew laughs from players who weren’t accustomed to seeing their head coach sporting spectacles.
The coach was so focused on his task that he didn’t even notice President Donald Trump was in attendance. Campbell admitted he existed in a zone where half the time he didn’t know what was happening around him—either the defense was on the field or he was preparing the next offensive plays. Learning later that the President attended made him appreciate the moment more, calling it a big deal to have the President of the United States present.
Wide receiver Jameson Williams benefited dramatically from the change, finishing with six receptions for a team-high 119 yards and a touchdown. The performance marked his first time eclipsing 100 receiving yards since Week 2 against the Chicago Bears. Williams laughed about seeing Campbell with the glasses, calling it his first or second time witnessing that look and admitting it was definitely different.
The numbers tell the story
Things looked different on the field too, as Detroit posted 226 rushing yards to complement their aerial assault. Quarterback Jared Goff went 25-for-33 with 320 yards, three touchdowns and zero interceptions, operating with precision throughout the afternoon. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs bounced back from a career-low 28 scrimmage yards on 12 touches against Minnesota with a season-high three scrimmage touchdowns on 18 touches.
Goff said the preparation during practice week didn’t feel dramatically different, noting Morton continued serving a significant role particularly in the pass game, which Campbell still considers vital. The quarterback gave Morton tremendous credit for handling the situation like a veteran coach with no ego, not missing a beat in game planning and helping with the passing game despite losing playcalling responsibilities. That collaborative approach made everything work smoothly.
This isn’t 2021 all over again
Campbell previously took over playcalling duties from former offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn in 2021 after a 44-6 loss to Philadelphia in Week 8. Lynn was ultimately replaced by Ben Johnson that offseason, creating an obvious comparison to the current situation with Morton. Both Goff and Campbell insist this scenario is completely different.
Goff pointed out they were 0-8 when the change happened in 2021 compared to 5-3 now, representing entirely different circumstances. Campbell acknowledged he knows how the previous situation ended but emphasized Morton is in a great spot and helped tremendously Sunday. After Johnson left for the Bears’ head coaching job this past offseason, Campbell considered calling plays before hiring Morton but realized it would demand too much from him as head coach.
Now Campbell is prepared to carry dual roles for the foreseeable future as the Lions enter a challenging November stretch including a road trip to Philadelphia next week. He explained that like anything else, you adjust when doing it and figure out what you need to do while becoming more efficient. It’s ultimately about what’s right for the team—nothing else matters.
Campbell feels good about where they’re positioned despite admitting he wasn’t perfect and Goff bailed him out of some situations. He likes the staff setup, believes the players are in a good place, and thinks they can grow from here. That confidence matters heading into the season’s toughest stretch.