BREAKING: Colin Cowherd Admits He Was “Totally Wrong” About Lions Coach Dan Campbell — Says He’s Made Detroit a True NFL Powerhouse

For years, Colin Cowherd mocked the Detroit Lions like they were the NFL’s eternal punchline. But after watching Dan Campbell’s squad tear through Tampa Bay on Monday Night Football, the outspoken analyst finally admitted he misjudged both Campbell and the team’s rise. Detroit is no longer just competing — they’re dominating.
Cowherd’s infamous “kneecap-biting” jokes once defined how the national media viewed Campbell: all noise, no substance. Yet this season, Detroit has flipped that narrative completely. Behind Campbell’s relentless energy and an identity built on toughness, discipline, and self-belief, the Lions are now one of football’s most feared teams.
The team’s dominance is not limited to one player or one unit. Offensive line play has been exceptional, defensive pressure is relentless, and quarterback Jared Goff has found his rhythm. Add rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs to the mix, and you have a multi-dimensional attack that has analysts reconsidering draft-day assumptions.
“I used to laugh at Dan Campbell — the speeches, the emotion, the fire. But now I see it. He didn’t just change the team, he changed the entire heartbeat of Detroit. This isn’t hype anymore… it’s power, purpose, and pride.” — Colin Cowherd
Colin Cowherd Admits He Was “Totally Wrong” About Dan Campbell — Says He’s Made Detroit a True NFL Powerhouse pic.twitter.com/of6pUcnm1d
— Adam Schefler (@ScheflerAdamUs) October 25, 2025
“Detroit’s offensive line and Jahmyr Gibbs had a different level of energy,” Cowherd continued. “They controlled the game. They’re deep and they’re talented.” Gibbs has been explosive, decisive, and a perfect fit in Ben Johnson’s offense. His ability to hit the hole with speed and create chunk plays has added another layer to a Lions attack that already had plenty of weapons.
What’s most impressive about this Lions team isn’t just the wins — it’s the sustainability. The synergy between Campbell and the front office is rock solid. They’ve drafted well, developed talent, and built a roster that’s both physical and versatile. This isn’t a Cinderella story; it’s the product of a clear vision executed over time.

Cowherd now says Campbell “should be the Lions head coach forever.” That kind of turnaround in public opinion speaks volumes about the program’s credibility and staying power. The narrative has shifted — Detroit plays disciplined, physical football and stacks wins while earning respect across the league.
As the NFL season continues, adversity will come. But this Lions team has shown it’s built to handle anything. They’ve got a head coach who believes in them, a locker room that’s bought in, and a fanbase that finally has something to roar about. For those still doubting, Colin Cowherd’s admission makes it clear: Detroit isn’t just back — they’re here to stay.
