Lions’ Special Teams Struggles Lead to Narrow Loss Against Vikings

The Detroit Lions endured a disappointing 27-24 defeat against the Minnesota Vikings on October 15, 2023, with special teams play proving detrimental to their chances of victory. Despite starting strong with a touchdown on their opening drive, the Lions struggled offensively, failing to consistently support quarterback Jared Goff and leaving their defense vulnerable.

A critical moment occurred when the Lions’ kickoff coverage unit allowed a significant 61-yard return by Myles Price of the Vikings. This return set up a quick response, enabling Minnesota to tie the game after just five plays. Kicker Jake Bates managed to tackle Price, preventing a touchdown, but the damage was done.

Special teams continued to plague the Lions throughout the game. In the second half, Price came dangerously close to scoring a 99-yard kickoff return, only to be thwarted by a holding penalty. He ultimately finished with 164 yards on five returns, significantly shortening the field for the Vikings’ offense.

Head coach Dan Campbell expressed his frustration with the team’s performance, highlighting the special teams errors as pivotal moments that shifted momentum. “We got hemmed up on a couple; they doubled us on the perimeter a couple of times,” Campbell said. “We had some of the other guys we need… they didn’t show up.”

The Lions’ issues on special teams culminated in a crucial play during the fourth quarter. Trailing 24-17, Bates attempted a 45-yard field goal, which was blocked. The Vikings’ cornerback Isaiah Rodgers scooped up the loose ball, returning it 41 yards to Detroit’s 26-yard line. This play allowed Minnesota to extend its lead with a field goal, effectively sealing the game.

“We made every critical error you needed to at the right time to lose it,” Campbell remarked. “Perfect storm. When you don’t play well in all three phases, that falls on the head coach. That’s me. I did not have them ready coming out of a bye.”

The Lions’ special teams coordinator, Dave Fipp, had previously noted the increase in blocked field goals around the league, suggesting that it is often an early-season issue. Unfortunately for Detroit, those concerns became a reality in this matchup.

“It’s about cleaning it up, it’s about correcting errors, and we move on,” Campbell concluded, acknowledging the need for immediate improvement as the Lions prepare for their next game.

As the Lions reflect on this loss, they will need to address the shortcomings on special teams to regain momentum in the season.