The excitement and passion that came from the Detroit Lions sideline after the win over the Minnesota Vikings were wholesome. Lions quarterback Jared Goff played exceptionally throughout the majority of the game. In fact, he lead the game-winning drive to seal the deal for the Lions. While the game rejoiced around the city of Detroit and the locker room, Lions head coach Dan Campbell dedicated this win to the Oxford community after the tragedy occurred days prior.
Jared Goff throws a game winning touchdown for the Lions I had Vikings live I’m speechless 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/LDHS0cOBO3
— Alex Monaco (@Alex__Monaco) December 5, 2021
Even after experiencing the emotional high of winning their first game of the season. Campbell has yet to miss the bigger picture. He closely drew his attention and focus on the tragic event that occurred in Michigan just days prior to the game that affect not only the state of Michigan but around the world.
“This game ball is for the entire Oxford community and everyone affected,” Campbell said, referring to the tragic shooting at nearby Oxford High School on Tuesday, which claimed the lives of four teenagers and injured several others. “And on that note, let’s not forget these names: Madisyn. B, Hana St. Juliana, Justin. S, Tate. M, Phoebe. A, Jon. A, Riley Franz, Elijah Mueller, Kylie Ossege, Aiden Watson, and Molly Darnell, who was a teacher.
“These names will never be forgotten. They are in our hearts and prayers.”
The game is bigger than football
The Lion’s most dynamic player, D’Andre Swift, wasn’t able to perform due to a shoulder injury. The Lions seemed to pay more inspired and passionate than normal. The shooting wasn’t approximately 30 miles outside of Detroit, per ESPN. The Detroit Lions honored the victims with a moment of silence before the opening kickoff. Additionally, wearing T-shirts, hats, and helmet decals in form of tribute.
“For me, it was simple. If we could bring a little relief to their pain for three hours, it was worth it. That’s how I approached this, and the players responded and played exceptionally well.”
BREAKING: The parents of two sisters who survived the Oxford High School shooting have filed two $100 million suits against the district and its officials for failing to stop the mass shooting. #mileg https://t.co/zb5NdEqsNz
— Shannon Watts (@shannonrwatts) December 9, 2021
The tragedy meant so much to the Lions, they had a team meeting Saturday before Sunday’s game emphasizing the magnitude of what they were playing for. Many of the players were so locked into football. Campbell decided to show them videos and media reports of the horrific event. The Detroit Lions later released a statement to comfort the people of Detroit and to send condolences to the people of Oxford.
“We never want to see such a tragedy, but we wanted to bring some positivity and joy to those affected,” Goff said, wearing an Oxford hat with tears in his eyes. “I hope they were able to watch the game and find some solace in our win. Even if it was just for a few hours, we wanted to provide a distraction. It goes beyond our sport, beyond us. Today was a special moment where we came together and created something extraordinary.”
