The Detroit Lions' defense endured another nightmare against the Carolina Panthers, allowing 445 yards and 32 points in a 32-26 defeat. Bryce Young threw for 329 yards and two touchdowns, while Tetairoa McMillan erupted for 192 receiving yards. The Lions also failed to force a single turnover as their defense again struggled to make critical stops.

The problems have become impossible to ignore. Carolina produced six straight scoring drives, including four touchdowns, while Detroit surrendered 12 explosive plays. With the defense ranking among the NFL's worst through four games, plenty of attention has turned toward defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard.

That has naturally raised questions about how much longer Sheppard has in his current role. However, Lions linebacker Jack Campbell was quick to defend his coordinator after the defeat, insisting the players must shoulder responsibility for what happens on the field.

“We're out there, and we make the scheme come alive, so honestly, put it on me. Put it on the players… But I mean, Shep...he works hard, Dan believes in him, I believe in him. He's made of the right stuff.”

Campbell's defense of Sheppard comes as Detroit's players face increasing scrutiny themselves. The linebacker made it clear that he does not believe the coaching staff should take all the blame for the unit's failures.

Dan Campbell has demanded more from the Lions defense

That sentiment has also been echoed elsewhere inside Detroit's locker room. Dan Campbell admitted the defense was “not good enough,” while emphasizing the need for better discipline, effort and takeaways.

The Lions head coach also pointed to coverage breakdowns, missed opportunities against the run and the absence of turnovers as major problems. Those issues have contributed to Detroit allowing at least 30 points in three of its first four games.

With the defense struggling this badly, changes may eventually become unavoidable. For now, though, Campbell and his teammates are standing behind Sheppard while demanding better execution from everyone involved.

Written by

Joseph Nithin