The Detroit Lions defeated the Washington Commanders 44-22, with head coach Dan Campbell taking over play-calling duties for the first time this season. The offense exploded for 546 total yards and 30 first downs, showcasing improved efficiency after a recent loss. Wide receiver Jameson Williams benefited most, recording six receptions for 119 yards and a touchdown.
In a dominant performance, the Detroit Lions improved to 6-3 with a 44-22 victory over the Washington Commanders. Head coach Dan Campbell stepped in to call offensive plays, a collaborative effort with offensive coordinator John Morton, following a 27-24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 9. Campbell explained, 'It was just, let's try something a little different... this is a collaborative effort. I was taking input from John Morton that whole time, and the other coaches.'
The Lions' offense produced 546 total yards without punting once, marking their second-best game by EPA per play under Campbell. Quarterback Jared Goff completed 25 of 33 passes for 320 yards and three touchdowns, connecting with running back Jahmyr Gibbs, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jameson Williams. Gibbs rebounded from a career-low 28 yards from scrimmage against the Vikings, totaling 172 yards and three touchdowns, including 142 rushing yards with scores on 13- and 43-yard runs.
Jameson Williams emerged as the biggest beneficiary of the change, tying his season-high with six receptions for a personal-best 119 receiving yards and a touchdown. Previously underutilized, Williams had zero catches in Week 7 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and just one for nine yards in Week 5 versus the Cincinnati Bengals. Morton acknowledged his oversight, stating, 'I failed him -- that's what I told him. I have to do a better job with that... This guy, he's awesome.' Williams' breakout 2024 season included 58 receptions for 1,001 yards and seven touchdowns, leading to a three-year extension worth up to $83 million.
The Commanders' defense, ranked third-worst in yards allowed per game at 394.6 and second-worst in passing yards allowed at 260.2, struggled throughout. Detroit now sits second in the NFC North behind the 5-2-1 Green Bay Packers, with their next test against the Philadelphia Eagles.