Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has been the talk of the sports world over the past 48 hours following his controversial fourth-down decisions that doomed them in the NFC Championship against the San Francisco 49ers. Now, even NFL legend Tom Brady has chimed in on the issue.
Detroit Lions Lose To San Francisco 49ers After Epic Collapse
For those who missed it, the Lions lost to the 49ers 34-31 after leading by 17 at halftime. Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey led the way to help the Niners stage the historic comeback and secure their place in Super Bowl 58.
A lot of things went wrong for the Lions in the contest, though many couldn’t overlook Campbell’s decision-making in the game. During the second half, Detroit actually had two chances to score from field-goal range in fourth-down situations. Instead of kicking it, however, Campbell decided to go for it in both instances.
Unfortunately, it didn’t work both times for the Lions. And in the end, it ended up costing them big time, with the 49ers winning by just three points.
It’s worth noting that one of those fourth-down decisions came in the fourth quarter when the 49ers were ahead 27-24 and the Lions at the 30-yard line. Going for the field goal would have probably changed the complexion of the game.
Tom Brady Speaks Out on Dam Campbell’s Decision
During the latest episode of his Let’s Go! podcast, Tom Brady was critical of Dan Campbell’s decision. While the legendary quarterback admitted that he understands the Detroit Lions wanted to be aggressive, he emphasized that taking the points was what mattered at that point. After all, it would have the same effect of putting pressure on the opponents.
“They’ve been aggressive all year,” Brady explained, via Bleacher Report. “You know obviously, when you’re aggressive and it doesn’t work, it comes back to bite you. It came back to bite them yesterday. Again, I would’ve taken the points.”
Brady added, “I’ve been in those situations. I look at them and say, okay, this is the opportunity to continue to keep the pressure on the 49ers to make great plays and you’re in a great position.”
Considering that Brady has been in such situations before, his take certainly carries some weight.
Unfortunately for the Lions, it’s too late for them to ponder on what could have been. Campbell himself doesn’t regret his decisions. Detroit can only learn from it and use the loss as motivation.
Hopefully, the next time the Lions face a similar situation, Campbell and Co. will make the winning choice.
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