The Detroit Lions have been one of the standout teams in the NFL this season, and they reinforced their position as a top contender with a big divisional victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. The Lions handed the Vikings their first loss of the season with a hard-fought 31-29 win on the road, solidifying their status as a serious challenger for the NFC North title once again.
Under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell, the Lions have turned into one of the most exciting and competitive teams in the league. Campbell’s energetic and unconventional coaching style, combined with his intense personality, has made him a fan favorite. However, not everyone is on board with Campbell’s approach—especially after the Lions’ blowout win over the Dallas Cowboys earlier in the season.
Former New Jersey governor and outspoken Dallas Cowboys fan, Chris Christie, was particularly critical of Campbell’s tactics, specifically his use of trick plays during the game. In an interview on Christopher “Mad Dog” Russo’s radio show, Christie didn’t hold back in his assessment of Campbell’s coaching style.
“That’s Dan Campbell. He’s got no class, never has,” Christie said. “So it’s fine. Look, Dan Campbell, that’s the way he is, and what goes around comes around. You’re beating the hell out of these guys, and rub it in. I don’t think that’s what pros do, but it’s his prerogative. It’s the reputation that he’ll carry around. And quite frankly, I think most people think that’s his rep now anyway.”
Christie’s harsh words followed a game in which Campbell’s Lions dominated the Cowboys, using trick plays and aggressive strategies even when the game was well in hand. The criticism painted Campbell as a coach who, according to Christie, lacks sportsmanship by “rubbing it in” during a blowout.
After hearing Christie’s comments, Campbell took the opportunity to respond in his typical lighthearted and self-deprecating manner during a press conference on Monday.
“The last time somebody called me classless, I was drinking wine out of a bottle, alright?” Campbell joked. “No, it’s all good. I’m not worried about it.”
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Campbell’s laid-back response demonstrated his ability to shrug off external criticism and stay focused on what matters most: winning games and leading his team.
The Lions’ head coach has won over many fans around the league who are excited to see Detroit, a franchise long associated with losing seasons, finally emerge as a serious competitor. Campbell’s no-nonsense, blue-collar approach seems to resonate with a fanbase that has endured decades of disappointment.
While Christie may not appreciate Campbell’s style, the Lions’ success on the field speaks for itself. After defeating the previously undefeated Vikings, Detroit now sits atop the NFC North standings, and Campbell’s leadership has been a driving force behind the team’s resurgence.
The Lions will aim to keep their momentum going with an upcoming game against the Tennessee Titans, followed by a highly anticipated showdown against their division rivals, the Green Bay Packers, on November 3.
Though Christie might not be a fan of Campbell’s methods, it’s clear he is in the minority with his opinion. With the Lions emerging as one of the league’s top contenders, many fans and analysts alike are cheering on Campbell and his team as they continue their push toward a potential Super Bowl run.
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