Jared Goff Praises Dan Campbell’s Gutsy 4th-Down Call vs. Packers: ‘Takes Some F’n Stones’
Not every 4th-down decision worked out perfectly for the Lions in Thursday night’s 34-31 victory over the Packers, but Dan Campbell’s aggressive approach ultimately delivered.
After successfully converting two 4th-and-goal touchdowns earlier in the game, Campbell made another bold call on 4th-and-inches in field goal range during the final minute. Rather than kicking the ball and risking his depleted defense against Jordan Love and the Packers’ offense, Campbell placed his trust in David Montgomery to secure the first down.
Despite Jared Goff stumbling after the snap, Montgomery powered forward and gained the inches needed to keep the drive alive.
With the first down secured, the Lions were able to run the clock down to two seconds, setting up Jake Bates to drill the game-winning field goal on the final play.
Like all NFL coaches, Campbell faces praise for successful 4th-down gambles and criticism when they fail. After Thursday’s win, though, it was clear his players would have stood behind him no matter the outcome.
Jared Goff Applauds Dan Campbell’s Decision
Jared Goff was ecstatic about Campbell’s choice, telling the Amazon Prime Video postgame crew it took “some f’n stones” for his coach to make the call.
“He was going back and forth on the sideline and finally said, ‘Screw it, we’re going,’” Goff said.
The veteran quarterback also lauded Campbell’s leadership beyond the bold play-calling. “He’s our rock. He’s the center,” Goff said.
Later, while speaking to reporters, Goff doubled down on his praise. “He’s the guy with the big stones,” he added.
WR Tim Patrick Reveals Campbell’s Pre-Game Message
Wide receiver Tim Patrick shared that Campbell had hinted earlier in the night that the game might come down to a decisive 4th-down call. “He let us know before the game, ‘Hey, if we’re close, we’re going for it,’” Patrick told the broadcast team.
Campbell confirmed that he wasn’t willing to risk giving the ball back to the Packers in the closing seconds. “Everything in me told me, ‘Let’s finish this,’” he said during his postgame comments.
A Record-Setting Night for Aggressiveness
While aggressive 4th-down play-calling has become more common in today’s NFL, Campbell took it to a new level on Thursday. The Lions became the first team this century to go for it in such a high-pressure situation—and they pulled it off.
The Lions’ success under Campbell reflects how much his players have embraced his philosophy since his arrival in 2021. Now in his fourth season, Detroit has legitimate Super Bowl ambitions—and more daring 4th-down decisions are likely to be part of their journey.
