CBS Sports: The ‘Unapologetically Alpha’ Detroit Lions are honored by the NFL.
Dan Campbell received recognition for his contributions to Detroit.
Despite fielding a defense that was utterly destroyed by injury, Dan Campbell’s Detroit Lions shocked the Minnesota Vikings 31–9 to wrap up a 15–2 regular season. It’s by far the finest record the team has ever had, and it’s sufficient to guarantee that Ford Field will host the NFC. The front office has crushed the drafts, while Campbell and his team have completely revamped the locker room since taking over in 2021.
They adopted an identity and were so successful that everyone is aware of the Lions’ tenacity, kneecaps, and willingness to take risks. The Dallas Cowboys already had America’s Team, but Colin Cowherd called them “the Chicago Cubs in shoulder pads” on his broadcast today, which seems to be a pretty accurate description.
The Fox Sports anchor used the remark as part of a lengthier diatribe on the Lions, in which he listed a number of plainly identifiable reasons.
According to Cowherd, “the Lions clinched a playoff spot on Dec. 5.” “Let’s get well because they might have packed it in with all those injuries to what seems to be the whole defensive group. Not at all. Not on this squad. Not with this coach. They engaged in a fierce battle.
Cowherd went on to say, “The Detroit Lions are a symbol of so many things great about the NFL,” “Every match counts. Toughness and grit, which our society can always need, are crucial. Alpha without apology.”
These three minutes are perhaps the most complimentary that a national host has ever given the Detroit Lions. And arguing with Cowherd is difficult. Campbell is pushing the boundaries of what complete buy-in can do for a team, and he is far more of a culture and vibes leader than a tactical.
It is important to note that his work is far from over. In each of the Lions’ remaining games, the defensive injuries will be a persistent worry. They might not even be the NFC’s best team. However, it won’t be because they aren’t in agreement or weren’t alpha enough if they do exit the playoffs early. They seem so alpha that another team could think about saying they’re sorry.