By Sunday 
When hot takes go too far, Lions fans don’t stay quiet.
Let’s get this out of the way: predicting a step back for the Detroit Lions in 2025 is fair game. New coordinators, tougher schedule, natural regression — we’ve heard all that. But there’s reasonable skepticism… and then there’s what Moe Moton of Bleacher Report just dropped.
It’s one thing to say the Lions won’t match their 15-2 record from last season. It’s another to suggest they’ll crash and burn — and that’s where fans, analysts, and even common sense are drawing the line.
From Underdogs to NFC Powerhouse
First, let’s rewind a bit. In 2024, Detroit rode a wave of momentum, finishing 15-2 and clinching the NFC’s top seed. Sure, their schedule leaned favorable — only one weather-heavy game and a light draw in the AFC South — but elite teams take care of business, and that’s exactly what they did.
Dan Campbell’s squad wasn’t just lucky. They were prepared. They were tough. And most importantly, they were unapologetically consistent.
So, What’s With the Sudden Doom-and-Gloom?
Moton’s projection hinges on a few familiar talking points: the Lions’ loss of both coordinators (Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn), the tougher 2025 schedule, and the rising strength of the NFC North. All true. But using those to justify a steep drop in wins? That’s where it gets sketchy.
To be fair, replacing Johnson’s creativity on offense won’t be easy. John Morton — who last called plays in 2017 for the New York Jets — hasn’t exactly wowed in that department before. And yes, defensive play-caller Kelvin Sheppard is a rookie in his role. There’s room for questions.
Still, this team isn’t starting from scratch. They’ve built a resilient core, and most of the roster that brought them to 15 wins is intact. The foundation remains solid — and so does the culture.
The Numbers Favor Detroit More Than You’d Think
Tougher opponents? Yes. But Detroit also has the fourth-fewest travel miles in the NFL this season — and the most net rest days compared to their competition. Those things matter across a grueling 18-week grind.
And let’s not forget this locker room thrives on being doubted. They’ve got chips on their shoulders the size of Ford Field.
A Fair Critique or Just Reaching?
It’s fair to be cautious. But some of these critiques feel more like default “what if”s than thoughtful projections. Saying Morton once coached a bad offense eight years ago ignores that he’s stepping into a system filled with talent like Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jahmyr Gibbs.
And using the coordinator turnover to suggest a freefall assumes Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes didn’t prepare for exactly this scenario.
Final Thought: Count the Lions Out at Your Own Risk
The Lions may not go 15-2 again. That’s a rare air record for any team.
But thinking they’re about to slide into mediocrity overnight? Come on.
They’re still deep. Still angry. Still hungry. And if history tells us anything — this team lives for a reason to prove you wrong.
So to whoever’s betting against Detroit in 2025: good luck. You’re going to need it.
When hot takes go too far, Lions fans don’t stay quiet.
Let’s get this out of the way: predicting a step back for the Detroit Lions in 2025 is fair game. New coordinators, tougher schedule, natural regression — we’ve heard all that. But there’s reasonable skepticism… and then there’s what Moe Moton of Bleacher Report just dropped.
It’s one thing to say the Lions won’t match their 15-2 record from last season. It’s another to suggest they’ll crash and burn — and that’s where fans, analysts, and even common sense are drawing the line.