The Detroit Lions secured a first-round bye in the playoffs by claiming the number one seed in the NFC with a week 18 win over the Minnesota Vikings. They are set to face the Washington Commanders this weekend, enjoying home-field advantage through to the Super Bowl if they advance that far. Head coach Dan Campbell is aware of how crucial this advantage is and acknowledged the challenge it will pose for the Commanders.
“You can be in loud environments — ours will be the loudest they’ve been in all year,” Campbell stated, according to Pro Football Talk. “How does it affect them? It only takes one moment for things to go awry and end a series. That’s all you’re looking for, all you’re hoping for. I’m glad we’re at home, and I can’t wait to hear that crowd—we know they’re behind us, and it’s going to be electric. This is a sleeping giant for football.” He emphasized, “This is a sports town, and for everyone to feel like they’re a part of it, this is our team, and they represent us.”
The Commanders will certainly keep Campbell’s words in mind as they aim to prove they are not easily intimidated by external factors. It will be intriguing to see which team emerges victorious and advances to the conference championship.