Turf Show Times
The Los Angeles Rams are back atop the conference standings, and remain there, but the Detroit Lions are in their way in Week 15. L.A. is 2-2 against Detroit under Sean McVay, yet has lost the last two in the series, including a 26-20 overtime win for the Lions in the 2024 season opener. Fortunately for the Rams, this one’s at home after the previous two were at Ford Field.
Ahead of Sunday’s critical showdown between NFC heavyweights, I spoke with Ryan Mathews from Pride of Detroit to get the inside scoop on how the Lions have adjusted to the departures of Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn, how to slow down star Jahmyr Gibbs and more.
Q – There was rightfully a big deal made about the departures of Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn in the offseason. The Lions have clearly gone through growing pains during this rollercoaster of a season. Still, how would you assess the job offensive coordinator John Morton and defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard have done this season?
A – John Morton still has the title of offensive coordinator, but Dan Campbell took over play-calling duties about a month ago. Campbell has since been adamant about how important Morton is to preparing and gameplanning throughout the week, but the change in who was calling the plays was necessary. The offense lacked rhythm; it was bogged down with too many three-and-outs and unproductive drives. While it hasn’t been all roses since Campbell took over, the Lions have looked more consistent in their execution and less drives have stalled out before ever getting off the ground.
As for Kelvin Sheppard, his contributions have stood out in contrast to his mentor and former Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. Glenn was a master of doing more with less, especially last season when nearly every Lions starter on defense ended up on injured reserve at some point during the season. Sheppard arguably has a more talented defense, and while the injuries have certainly posed an issue, Sheppard’s ability to adapt and be malleable with his gameplanning on a week-to-week basis has been the biggest difference between him and his predecessor. Glenn was often seen sticking to his guns, relying on press-man coverage and “crush-the-can” approach to rushing the passer. Sheppard definitely comes from that school, but we’ve seen him – as recently as last week against Dallas – put more emphasis on getting to the quarterback quicker, even if it means missing a run fit here or there.
Q – Running back Jahmyr Gibbs is the main reason Detroit is still in the playoff race. The Rams have been pretty strong against the run this season, but how should they try to slow Gibbs down?
A – It’s interesting to see how successful the Rams have been this season in defending the run given they boast one of the lower stacked box rates in the NFL (19.8%). If the Rams want to shut down Gibbs, they’re going to...
