By Sunday 
The Detroit Lions are 5-2, sitting comfortably among the NFL’s top contenders—but according to their fiery head coach, Dan Campbell, this team is just getting started.
Even after a strong first half of the season, Campbell isn’t satisfied. Speaking during the Lions’ bye week, he made a statement that sent a quiet chill through the league:
“I really believe we haven’t played our best ball yet collectively in all three phases.”
That’s right—despite dismantling some of the NFL’s toughest opponents and doing it without both of their former coordinators, the Lions’ leader insists there’s another level of dominance waiting to be unlocked.
Sharpening the Claws
Campbell pointed to four key areas Detroit needs to tighten up: third-down efficiency, red zone defense, offensive balance, and wideout Jameson Williams’ involvement.
Last year, Detroit converted nearly 47% of their third downs. This season? Just 37.7%. On defense, they’re allowing opponents to convert at a rate almost identical to what they’re producing—something Campbell isn’t willing to tolerate.
“We need to start playing complete ball across the board,” he added. “Every game’s different, and one unit may have to pick up the slack, but we’ve got to keep improving.”
The Hidden Threat of Detroit’s Ceiling
Here’s the scary part for the rest of the league: if the Lions are this good while still “sharpening themselves,” imagine what happens when everything clicks. With Jared Goff steady under center, Amon-Ra St. Brown lighting up defenses, and rookie sensation Jahmyr Gibbs adding explosive energy, Detroit looks more dangerous than ever.
The Vikings will get the first taste of the Lions 2.0 after the bye—and if Campbell’s words ring true, they might not be ready for what’s coming out of Ford Field.