The NFC North has long been one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL. With storied franchises like the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, and Chicago Bears, the division has always had its share of ups and downs, but rarely has a team risen so swiftly from mediocrity to genuine championship contention as the Detroit Lions have in recent seasons. A key testament to this resurgence came with the selection of multiple Lions players to *Bob McGinn’s All-NFC North Offensive Team*, which speaks volumes about the team’s transformation under head coach Dan Campbell.
While the Packers and Vikings still have their fair share of talented rosters, the Lions have positioned themselves as the team to beat in the division. The infusion of dynamic playmakers, a balanced offensive scheme, and a strong team ethos has made the Lions a franchise built for sustained success. McGinn’s All-NFC North Team is a reflection of the new wave of talent emerging in Detroit, and a further endorsement that this team is not a flash in the pan. Here’s a closer look at why the Detroit Lions are indeed built to last.
### The Resurgence of Detroit: A New Era
Detroit’s last truly successful period came back in the early 1990s, but for decades, the team struggled to get over the hump. The Lions have been marked by inconsistency, with moments of brilliance often followed by disappointing seasons. However, after years of underperforming, the Lions are finally experiencing a resurgence under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes.
The 2022 season marked a turning point, with the Lions finishing 9-8 and showing a new identity—one that prioritized toughness, physicality, and versatility. The team’s offense, in particular, began to click, and while they missed out on the playoffs, their potential was clear. With the 2023 season showing even more promise, it’s clear that Detroit is no longer a bottom-tier franchise, but one that has the tools to challenge for NFC supremacy for years to come.
### The Key Pieces: Jared Goff and the Lions’ Offensive Foundation
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Lions’ turnaround has been the revitalization of quarterback Jared Goff. Acquired in the trade that sent Matthew Stafford to the Los Angeles Rams, Goff was often viewed as a “bridge quarterback” in the early stages of his Detroit tenure. However, the past couple of years have seen him play some of the best football of his career. Goff’s accuracy, poise in the pocket, and leadership have been integral to the Lions’ offensive success. He’s proven he can lead a team in a high-powered offense and guide a group of talented playmakers.
What sets Goff apart is his ability to elevate the play of those around him. He’s not the flashiest quarterback in terms of mobility or arm strength, but his decision-making, consistency, and command of the offense make him a reliable and efficient leader. His 2022 performance, in which he threw for over 4,400 yards, 29 touchdowns, and just 7 interceptions, was a standout, and he’s carried that momentum into the 2023 season.
However, Goff is only one piece of the puzzle. The Lions have invested heavily in building a complete offense around him, creating a well-balanced attack that has the ability to hurt teams both through the air and on the ground.
### The Offensive Line: A Foundation of Strength
If there’s one unit that has truly allowed Detroit’s offense to flourish, it’s the offensive line. The Lions have built one of the most physically imposing offensive lines in the NFL, anchored by Pro Bowl-caliber players such as left tackle Taylor Decker and right guard Halapoulivaati Vaitai. The importance of a strong offensive line cannot be overstated, and it’s been a major factor in the team’s resurgence.
The Lions’ O-line is not just effective in pass protection, but they dominate in the running game as well. This versatility is a direct result of the Lions’ focus on physicality and maintaining control at the line of scrimmage. The ability to protect Goff in the pocket while opening holes for the running backs has allowed the Lions to sustain long drives and keep opposing defenses on their heels. This is a team that can run power football when needed, but also provides enough time for Goff to work the ball downfield through the air.
The play of second-year center Frank Ragnow has also been a highlight. The 2022 Pro Bowler is a stabilizing force in the middle, often tasked with making the line calls and helping the other linemen adjust to defensive fronts. His leadership and strength are crucial components to the success of the Detroit offense.
### The Skill Positions: A Deep, Dynamic Group
What sets the Detroit offense apart from others in the NFC North is the dynamic group of skill-position players who complement Goff’s play at quarterback. The Lions’ ability to use a variety of weapons in the passing and running games gives them an unpredictable offense that’s difficult to defend against.
#### Amon-Ra St. Brown: A Rising Star
One of the primary reasons for the offensive success is the emergence of wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. The third-year receiver has quickly become Goff’s go-to target and one of the top young wideouts in the NFL. St. Brown’s route running, hands, and ability to make plays after the catch have made him a focal point of the Lions’ passing attack. With 1,161 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2022, St. Brown proved he could be a primary option in a high-powered offense, and he has only continued to grow in 2023.
St. Brown is the type of receiver who can move all over the field, creating mismatches for defenses. His versatility allows the Lions to employ a variety of schemes, from short, quick throws to deep shots down the field, making him a major weapon in both the short and long game.
#### Jahmyr Gibbs: A Fresh Face in the Backfield
While the Lions have had success with running backs in the past, the selection of Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft signals the team’s commitment to establishing a high-powered backfield. Gibbs, a dual-threat back out of Alabama, offers not just the ability to run between the tackles but also the capability to catch passes out of the backfield and create mismatches in space. His speed, agility, and ability to make defenders miss make him a perfect fit for Detroit’s fast-paced, explosive offense.
Adding Gibbs to the mix alongside the steady play of veteran David Montgomery gives the Lions one of the most versatile and dangerous backfields in the NFL. This combination allows the team to run multiple offensive schemes, with a focus on balance, and gives Goff even more options when attacking defenses.
#### The Tight Ends: An Underappreciated Asset
The tight end position often flies under the radar in many offenses, but in Detroit, it’s become a critical part of the game plan. The Lions boast one of the league’s top tight end duos in Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright. Both offer size, blocking ability, and pass-catching versatility, providing Goff with reliable options over the middle of the field and in the red zone. The presence of a strong tight end corps allows the Lions to create mismatches with linebackers and safeties, further enhancing the efficiency of the passing game.
### The Coaching: Dan Campbell’s Leadership and Vision
Dan Campbell has brought a new attitude to Detroit since taking over as head coach in 2021. Known for his fiery personality and no-nonsense approach, Campbell has instilled a culture of toughness and accountability in the Lions’ locker room. His leadership has allowed the team to thrive, particularly on offense, where his commitment to establishing a strong running game and balanced attack has paid off.
Campbell’s offensive philosophy is about more than just raw power—it’s about smart, strategic football. The synergy between Campbell’s vision and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s scheming has allowed the Lions to be one of the most well-rounded offensive teams in the NFL. Johnson’s innovative play calling has been a revelation, helping the Lions stay ahead of the curve in terms of offensive strategy.
### Conclusion: The Detroit Lions Are Built to Last
The selection of multiple Lions players on *Bob McGinn’s All-NFC North Offensive Team* is a clear indication that Detroit is no longer the league’s doormat. With a strong, talented offensive line, a deep group of skill-position players, and a quarterback who’s hitting his stride, the Lions have the foundation to challenge for NFC North supremacy year after year. Add in the leadership of Campbell and Johnson, and it’s clear the Detroit Lions have the right pieces in place for long-term success. The team’s resurgence is not a one-year fluke; the Lions are built to last.