In a recent playoff game, Dan Campbell team Detroit Lions’ safety Kerby Joseph made impactful tackles on tight ends Tyler Higbee and T.J. Hockenson, both resulting in torn ACLs. Higbee’s injury occurred during a game against the Los Angeles Rams, where Joseph’s forceful leg hit sent him somersaulting onto his head.
These incidents have prompted public scrutiny, with accusations of “dirty” play, despite the tackles being within the legal framework. Amid this controversy, the coach Dan Campbell has stepped forward to defend Kerby Joseph.
Dan Campbell defends Kerby Joseph hit on Tyler Higbee
Dan Campbell, Lions coach, defended Kerby Joseph’s play during a Wednesday statement. The coach emphasized their team’s style of play, instructing players to keep their heads up and be mindful of their hits.
“That’s how we play football here. Just keep your head up, see what you hit. That’ll always be what I tell Kerby. Just keep your eyes up so you don’t hit on the crown of your helmet, hit a spine, mess yourself up there.”
Campbell advised Joseph to focus on keeping his eyes up to avoid dangerous hits on the crown of the helmet or the spine. He acknowledged the physical nature of their defense but insisted it wasn’t dirty, expressing that hitting is a fundamental part of their playing style.
“Just see what you hit. But, no, he’s going for the thigh board and staying away from the head. That’s how we play defense here. It’s not dirty. You know, we hit,” the coach added.
While defending Joseph, Dan Campbell pointed out the need for Joseph to improve in protecting himself with better head placement.
While Kerby Joseph has faced criticism for this hit it is confirmed that he did not receive a fine for the tackle on the Los Angeles Rams‘ player, T.J. Hockenson.
Campbell’s battle cry captivates fans
Dan Campbell is always praised for his exceptional way with words and his ability to captivate and inspire audiences.
An example of the coach’s motivational prowess is highlighted with a quote recently shared by the NFL on the X app.
Campbell’s motivational message emphasized the team’s identity of going the extra mile, pushing boundaries, and displaying unwavering determination.
“We’re going to go a little bit longer, we’ll push a little harder, and we’ll think a little deeper, and a little sharper. To me, it means, we’ll play you anywhere. We’ll play you on grass, we’ll play you on turf, we’ll go to a f**** landfill. It doesn’t matter and that’s what we gotta be, that’s who we have to be.”
His strong motivation and the way he inspires the players captivated fans. They praised Campbell as a leader of men, suggesting the United States needs more figures like him.
Some fans declared Dan Campbell as the best head coach in the NFL, showing strong support for his leadership.
One fan even encouraged upcoming free agents to consider playing for MCDC (Dan Campbell), describing him as one of the best coaches in the league and expressing love for the city.
Overall, the fans’ reactions reflect positive sentiments toward Dan Campbell, portraying him as a motivational leader and a coach who resonates with fans and potential players.
