In a scene that probably seemed surreal to most Detroit Lions football fans, head coach Dan Campbell – the towering head coach of the Lions, stood at the podium wearing a black T-shirt commemorating the Lions’ first division title in three decades. The noise from the locker room next door also spoke to the team’s remarkable achievement. The franchise, for many seasons, has been one of the NFL’s most famous losing franchises.

Reflecting on the journey, Coach Campbell shared his joy in the video above. He also emphasized the resilience and camaraderie that fueled the Lions’ success. In his words, this victory wasn’t just for the team; it was for the die-hard Lions fans who had yearned for this moment for years.

How Things Have Changed for the Lions in Two Years

Two years ago, during Campbell’s inaugural season, he cried after a crushing loss to this same Minnesota team. Fast forward to this past weekend, and the Lions have made significant progress. With their 30-24 score, they pushed their record to 11-4 on the season.

The game itself was a rollercoaster of scores and emotions, as Campbell noted in the interview. Although the Vikings were undermanned, they put up a good fight on their home turn to keep themselves in the game. The Lions finally prevailed.

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The win secured not only a playoff spot but also a home playoff game at Ford Field, a feat the Lions haven’t achieved in 22 seasons. As the entire team celebrated, two key players were singled out for special treatment. Those were Taylor Decker and Frank Ragnow, the team’s two longest-tenured players.

The Lions, As a Franchise, Has Weathered a Lot of Storms

For a franchise that has endured a prolonged championship drought, this win marked a significant milestone. The 11-win season is the first in nine years for the Lions. As well, their 20 victories over the last two seasons set a new franchise record.

In the face of adversity and injuries, the Lions embodied the spirit of a team that battles for each other. That was one thing Coach Campbell acknowledged. He almost gushed about this special group; and, for him, the win was more than just a win. It was about a team coming together as a collective. Their effort, accountability to each other, and their brotherhood (to Campbell) made all the difference. Even if that seems a bit over the top, it was that kind of day for the Lions’ organization.

The Lions now have won a place in the playoffs. But what a special moment – after 30 seasons – for this historic franchise. Things are finally going well. The NFC North title is now in hand, and the Lions look ahead to the postseason.

Coach Campbell believes this team can go far. Now the question exists: Is he right?

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