One simple change can make a world of difference. The Detroit Lions offense exploded for over 500 total yards in a dominant 44-22 win in a playoff rematch against the Washington Commanders. With Dan Campbell primarily calling the shots on offense, it's no surprise that wide receiver Jameson Williams had a big performance.
Williams finished Sunday's win with a season-high 119 receiving yards, good for the fourth most in a game in his career, along with one touchdown reception on a 14-yard pass from quarterback Jared Goff. All six of Williams' receptions went for over ten yards, including a 41-yarder midway through the third quarter. The only incompletion targeting Williams was a drop thrown by backup QB Kyle Allen when the game was in hand.
Fans have been longing for a big performance out of Williams after signing his massive contract extension right before the Lions' season kicked off. While Williams had a few solid games this season, it was clear that something had been off, whether it was his chemistry with Goff or the play-calling. It remains to be seen whether everything is fixed, but it was an encouraging game for the offense, top to bottom.
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Campbell and Goff had high praise for "cheat code" Williams
Williams' big day was not lost on his QB and new play-caller. After the game, Campbell praised Williams' work ethic, saying, "He's been unbelievable, and we just hadn't, you know, we just hadn't connected. And, so, today, we got him going. Goff got him going, and made some throws, and (Williams) made some big plays." Campbell continued, "It was just good to see, man. His confidence was up, and he's ripping and roaring. He's very much a part of our guys."
It wasn't just Campbell providing Williams praise, Goff had some positive words to say as well, saying, Williams was "incredible today" and that "it was great that we and giving him more (opportunities) to get the ball, and he was locked in. He was locked in all week." Goff also remarked on Williams' speed in open space, referring to it as a "cheat code."
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For one week, at least, all seems right with the Lions' offense. If the change in play-calling was responsible for that, then expect big things out of the Goff-Williams connection in the second half of the season. Next week will be a big test against the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, who boast a much better defense than the injury-riddled Commanders.
If this week was the start of a trend for Williams, it might be tough for even the champions to stop the Lions' offense.