The Detroit Lions’ thrilling Thanksgiving clash against the Chicago Bears was a highly anticipated match that didn’t just end with a final score contention. The victory grabbed by the Lions cost Matt Eberflus his job as Bears head coach, and it had a lot of spicy behind-the-scenes revelations made by Amon-Ra and Equanimeous St. Brown on their podcast.
Dan Campbell Had a Strong Pregame Message
On the latest episode of the St. Brown Podcast, Amon-Ra shared an eyebrow-raising tidbit from Campbell’s pregame message. The host, in the latest episode of the St. Brown podcast released on Dec. 4, revealed that Campbell had a no-nonsense plan ready for handling Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, claiming, “He goes, ‘If he does this, we’re going to hit his a**. I already warned the refs, the refs know.’”
"He goes, 'If he does this, we're going to hit his a**. I already warned the refs, the refs know.'"
Amon-Ra St. Brown said Dan Campbell told the Lions to hit Caleb Williams if he's not clearly going out of bounds. pic.twitter.com/lI3neK7LlI
— St. Brown Podcast (@StBrownPodcast) December 4, 2024
Campbell’s blunt directive came as the Lions faced Williams, who’s been a silver lining despite Chicago’s rough season. The rookie kept the Bears in contention with 256 passing yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions, but Detroit ultimately held on for a 23-20 victory, making it their first Thanksgiving win in eight years.
The victory was also led by the Lions’ strong defense, which disrupted Williams with five sacks and constant pressure. Despite the hard struggle, Williams answered and held his end but couldn’t stop the Lions from proving why they’re NFC North leaders. Campbell’s tough-love approach gave his team a clear approach, and it didn’t hurt that his squad delivered when it mattered most.
Dan Campbell’s Counterpart Matt Eberflus Lost His Job for Mismanagement
While Campbell’s clarity of thought helped his team score a big win, Eberflus suffered for his sheer mismanagement and untimely decision-making. His tenure as Bears head coach ended following their Thanksgiving Day loss and a 4-8 start to his third season. Interim offensive coordinator Thomas Brown stepped in as interim head coach after the decision.
Eberflus’ dismissal wasn’t a spontaneous affair. The news of his exit comes after weeks of mounting frustration over mismanagement and critical game-day errors. The Thanksgiving game was the breaking point, with the Bears squandering a late opportunity to tie or win.
Holding a timeout with 32 seconds left, Eberflus opted not to stop the clock after a sack, leaving Williams with limited options and no chance for a game-tying field-goal attempt. This mishap capped a six-game losing streak that featured numerous similar blunders.
General manager Ryan Poles and team president Kevin Warren cited the need for a “new direction” in leadership while also emphasizing the importance of delivering better results for their loyal fan base.
DJ Moore said Ryan Poles called him following the firing of Matt Eberflus, saying to him: "We're just going to get this thing turned around, and a leader of men is going to be in here for the next coach." via @mullyhaugh
— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) December 2, 2024
Meanwhile, Detroit is now eyeing a deep playoff run, and Campbell’s approach sets the tone for a team that wants to win by any means necessary. And with this kind of energy, the Lions are showing they’re ready for whatever comes next.