Detroit were deservedly beaten by a Parsons-led defense.
The Lions’ start to the 2025 campaign did not go as intended. The franchise was on the losing side of a 27-13 scoreline against the Green Bay Packers.
However, hope should not be lost so early for a team that underwent significant coaching and roster changes this offseason.
Those mistakes made at Lambeau Field should not be dwelt on. The only way is forward, with another divisional match against the Chicago Bears on the horizon.
Here is what we learnt from Week 1 and some adjustments Dan Campbell must make to secure a win against his former colleague Ben Johnson.
Taking time to bed in
As mentioned earlier, the Lions have undergone considerable changes to their core roster.
Two new co-ordinators and a reshaping of the offensive line clearly showed some vulnerabilities, or at least a lack of cohesion.
It was obvious that Jared Goff was less comfortable behind the new interior duo – Graham Glasgow and Christian Mahogany. Last season, it was Pro Bowlers Frank Ragnow and Kevin Zietler.
Big change takes time, with reps being the only remedy for easing pressure and pain.
Additionally, Campbell and his team would not execute a major shift if he did not believe in the talent his younger players have.
So, rather than causing concern, Detroit fans should sit back, relax and watch this process unfold.
Disguising the two-high shell
It is no surprise that Head Coach Dan Campbell continues to deploy a two-high shell on defense. It worked last year, and he still has the league’s most talented safety pairing. So why change?
Your defensive packages become predictable. Campbell learned this the hard way with multiple seam routes exposing the middle of his defense, thanks to Matt LaFleur’s inventive play-calling.
We must not overreact, though. One week of issues does not mean Campbell’s defensive scheme is ineffective for every game.
A small adjustment can make a big difference. Dropping Brian Branch closer to the box not only fills an attacking space but also gives him the option to fall back downfield while encouraging more blitzes. This reduces the quarterback’s time to throw over the middle.
Looking ahead to Sunday, expect some changes. Campbell will want to stop Chicago’s pass-catchers from exploiting his generally rigid defense.
TeSlaa must start
After the draft, Detroit’s third-round wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa’s role raised some questions. How would he fit into a system already thriving with talented pass-catchers?
But after his three-snap cameo last Sunday, it seems clear that the former Arkansas Razorback has considerable talent.
A spectacular one-handed touchdown catch in the fourth quarter did not spark a comeback, but it did showcase pure athleticism. TeSlaa’s catch radius, physicality and big-play potential were evident.
It is highly unlikely that Campbell will keep the 23-year-old’s offensive snap count at just 5% again this weekend.
