Jameson Williams: Lions Eager to Rebound from 'Embarrassing' Loss
The Detroit Lions are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to bounce back from their Week 14 loss to the Chicago Bears.
A shorter week of practice leading up to Saturday's game has allowed the team to move forward quicker. There's been urgency within team headquarters, as evidenced by what Dan Campbell described as a strong week of preparation.
"Two really good days of work for us, guys are locked in," Campbell said Thursday. "Thought yesterday was an outstanding day for us. Obviously we've got one more, red zone day. I like where we're at."
Wide receiver Jameson Williams added context to the comments, explaining how strongly the offense has been performing in the days leading up to Saturday's game against Denver.
"We're just on our things. Details is rocking. Everything is going up," Williams explained. "No drops, you're out there moving fast and everything's just going good for us."
Knowing the stakes and how close Detroit is to clinching the NFC North division, players are understanding the urgency that comes with each practice. Internally, they're motivated to respond and bounce back.
"I feel like we had an embarrassing loss last week that we've got to shake back from and we know that," Williams said. "Dan don't really got to tell us that at all and we just know what we've got to do this week to play better. Less turnovers and just play good football. Do what we do."
This player-led urgency is key to the team performing at its best. In Campbell, the Lions have one of the league's best motivators. However, the team's output can be maximized by being intrinsically motivated ahead of each game.
Saturday's game has heightened levels of emotions given the Lions are coming off a loss along with the personal ties between Campbell and Denver coach Sean Payton. As a result, high levels of production are required.
That high level of intensity and urgency is exactly what has been on display in Allen Park throughout the week.
"I think when you feel like the players take it over for themselves," Campbell said. "There's a level of intensity and urgency that they bring upon themselves. That's where you can really feel it."
Avoiding turnovers
The Broncos are tied for the league lead in takeaways entering Week 15 with 24. Their opportunistic defense has been a key factor in their turnaround.
On the opposite side, the Lions' offense has been bit by the turnover bug in recent weeks. Jared Goff has turned the ball over nine times in the last four games, with five interceptions and four fumbles lost.
Entering their matchup Saturday, Williams understands the importance of valuing the ball but noted that the Lions' offense isn't concerned about recent issues.
"No, it's not something we think about," Williams said. "We think about going into the game and getting no turnovers. That would be the main thing with us. We just try not to turn the ball over."
