The Detroit Lions enter their Thanksgiving showdown against the Green Bay Packers with momentum, measured improvement, and a head coach who delivered a blend of strategy and reflection before kickoff.
Dan Campbell’s remarks offered a glimpse into how the Lions are approaching this rematch and hinted at a deeper emotional current shaping their preparation.
Dan Campbell’s Strategic Focus and Growth Ahead of the Holiday Matchup
Speaking with Jay Glazer on Fox Sports, Campbell discussed the challenge of preparing a team on a short week. His message centered on clarity and execution rather than complexity.
As he explained, “You got to set your playmakers up to be able to make plays and try to take care of their playmakers, but don’t make it so confusing or so complex. We can’t line it up. We make mistakes.”
The comment emphasizes the importance of minimizing errors while ensuring that the Lions’ top contributors are well-positioned to make a significant impact on the game.
“We are a better team than we were in Week 1.”@JayGlazer caught up with Coach Campbell before kickoff ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/iIOGi7wpW7
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) November 27, 2025
When Glazer asked how the Lions differ from their Week 1 meeting with the Packers, Campbell pointed toward the offensive line’s development. He emphasized the value of accumulated snaps and growth, especially for younger players.
Referring to rookie Tate Ratledge, he said, “our rookie, Ratledge, that was his first start was out in Lambeau. So he’s a better player now.” Campbell added that the Lions are running the ball better and concluded, “we are a better team than we were in week one, a lot better.”
Data from PFSN’s Offense Impact metric suggests that the Lions’ offense has made progress. Through eleven games in 2025, the Lions have an impact score of 82.1 and rank ninth, while the Packers sit slightly ahead at 83.5, ranking seventh. The Lions enter the matchup at 7–4, close behind the Packers’ 7–3–1 record.
The numbers also highlight stylistic differences. The Lions average 29.6 points per game compared to the Packers’ 23.9, and the Lions produce more points per drive and more yards per play.
The Lions also lead in passing touchdowns with 24 to the Packers’ 16. The rushing totals remain close, with the Lions at 15 and the Packers at 14. Turnover numbers are likewise competitive, with the Lions at eight and the Packers at seven. These figures help illustrate why Campbell views his team as more seasoned and more efficient than it was early in the season.
Asked what he is most thankful for, Campbell shifted to a reflective tone. “Family, my friends, the brotherhood, these guys in the locker room,” he said, before adding gratitude for people who persevere through hardship and, as he put it, “make the world go round.”
How Fans Can Watch the Packers–Lions Thanksgiving Matchup
All viewing and listening information comes directly from the Packers’ provided details.
The game will air on FOX Sports, with Kevin Burkhardt, Tom Brady, Erin Andrews, and Tom Rinaldi on broadcast duties.
Radio coverage is available through the Packers Radio Network, Sirius, the Packers mobile app within the home market, and desktop streaming on Packers.com worldwide.
