Campbell: Aidan Hutchinson Is 'Relentless'
Detroit Lions second-year defensive end Aidan Hutchinson started the season with a strong effort. Despite not recording a sack in Thursday's game, he made his presence felt with seven pressures on Patrick Mahomes.
"Hutch was all over the field. As we know, he's relentless. He's really grown this year," Campbell told Lions' flagship radio station. "Just watching him really through spring and then through training camp, we feel like he's taken another step forward, and I felt like that proved to be true the other night. I know it really didn't surprise any of us. I know it didn't surprise him, just the amount of pressure he was able to apply. Even though it didn't lead to a sack, his pressure all day was a factor, and I did feel like it made a difference and we were able to affect Mahomes. I thought it payed dividends."
The Michigan product was consistently beating his defender, which was a product both of his hard work and good matchups.
"We found those matchups, 'Hutch' started outside, and then we moved him in on the guard and he kind of had his way in there, too," Campbell noted. "Look, he's an asset for us. He's a chess piece that gives you a lot of versatility. He's really worked his craft, and on top of having this ability, he's pretty instinctive and he's just non-stop. His motor is non-stop, and it's hard to play against those guys, if you're the opponent."
Gibbs to get more touches
Jahmyr Gibbs made a strong first impression on the Lions' fanbase. However, his usage was underwhelming in his NFL debut.
He had just nine touches in Thursday's win over the Kansas City Chiefs, but led the league in broken tackles forced with six. The Alabama product flashed the dynamic skill set that made him so desirable for Brad Holmes and company.
Now, heading into the home opener, Dan Campbell believes the rookie is in store for a bigger role within the offense.
"Gibbs, we love Gibbs," Campbell said. "He's a perfect fit for us and so is (David Montgomery). Man, that 1-2 punch with those guys, they fit us perfectly. And yeah, he's going to get more touches."
The rookie running back played a limited amount of snaps, as situations called for David Montgomery to pass block and gain tough yards between the tackles.
However, the Lions liked the way Gibbs handled the spotlight, and expect him to be more impactful on Sunday.
Notes
1.) Campbell said offensive tackle Taylor Decker continues to improve, but adds that it's hard to predict whether he will play in Sunday's home opener after suffering an ankle injury.
2.) The Lions have drawn Alex Kemp's officiating crew. Kemp's crew threw 17 flags last week while officiating the Pittsburgh-San Francisco game.
3.) Ford Field hosted its gameday food preview. Among the new items are Coca-Cola pulled pork nachos, Bert's BBQ and a vegan crunchwrap.
