This season has been one for the books for the Detroit Lions, winning the NFC North for the first time since 1993. It is no coincidence that this success also correlates with replacing new coaching staff, the change from the previous head coach, Matt Patricia, to the Lion’s current head coach, Dan Campbell.
After the termination of Patricia’s employment following the 2020 Thanksgiving Day, fans hoped for a new coach to come and save this broken franchise. Many believed Robert Saleh, the current New York Jets head coach, was the answer. Fans were shocked and disappointed once Saleh signed a five-year deal with the 2-14 team, and was “stuck” with the assistant head coach of the New Orleans Saints, Dan Campbell. Fans have come to love Campbell’s fiery personality and desire to win. Campbell’s drive and determination are highly reminiscent of another extremely well-known NFL coach.
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Vince Lombardi is the greatest coach to grace the NFL with his presence, changing the direction of the Green Bay Packers’ future, and leading them to success. Lombardi was supportive while also challenging and encouraging players to achieve their full potential, no matter what it took. In the current day NFL, Campbell mirrors values and practices similar to Lombardi’s, showing how much like Lombardi, Campbell will leave a strong legacy on the league. Here are three reasons why Campbell is strikingly similar to Lombardi as a coach.
Why Dan Campbell is the Next Vince Lombardi
1. Dan Campbell motivates his players to constantly be better.
Lombardi was known for his motivational nature, making it virtually impossible for players to not want to become better. Zeke Bratkowski spent several seasons as the backup quarterback for the Packers franchise.
2. He was able to make something out of nothing.
When Lombardi began coaching the Green Bay Packers in 1959, he picked up where Ray McLean left off: a 1-10-1 record. Although challenging, Lombardi turned the unimpressive Packers franchise around, achieving a winning record every year he was head coach. Not only did his coaching lead to winning records, but also four NFL championships and two Super Bowls. Lombardi’s coaching made an optimal environment for the players to have the most success during their careers in Green Bay.
3. Dan Campbell is an expert at motivational speeches
There is no question that a good coach is able to use his words effectively. Lombardi was able to use his words to inspire and foster an encouraging environment that would make players want to do better.
If Campbell is able to continue growing this new franchise even stronger, his legacy, not only on the Lions but the NFL in general, will be remembered for years to come and he will be recognized as one of the greatest coaches of all time.
