Will the Lions rebound? Recent events have shifted perceptions dramatically. Just a week ago, the Lions were celebrated as a top NFL team, but now they face uncertainty due to injuries and questionable play-calling decisions. The question remains: can they recover from this setback and regain their momentum in the league?
In this week’s roundtable, FOX Sports’ NFL analysts discuss whether the Bills can maintain their scoring prowess on the road to New Orleans, if Bill Belichick can reclaim his NFL coaching status through a college stint, and whether Sam Darnold is the long-term solution for the Vikings.
Let’s dive into the details.
Once riding high with a franchise-record winning streak, the Lions now find themselves grappling with injuries and criticism aimed at their coach’s aggressive strategies. Is this merely a temporary setback, or could this signify a shift from a hopeful season to a disappointing one?
The definition of “disappointment” varies. If it refers to diminished Super Bowl prospects, then yes. However, the Lions still possess the competitive spirit necessary to make a significant impact.
As the saying goes, anything can happen in the playoffs. The Eagles, despite their impressive 10-game winning streak, show vulnerabilities, while the Vikings under Kevin O’Connell have yet to prove themselves in the postseason, with only one playoff appearance resulting in a loss. — Ben Arthur
This week marked a turning point for Dan Campbell’s decisions. The choice to attempt an onside kick early in the fourth quarter against the Buffalo Bills raised eyebrows. It was one of those moments where the strategy felt more impulsive than calculated. Nevertheless, the Lions showed resilience; players accepted the decision without question, and Campbell took responsibility for his choice. Their unwavering confidence remains a hallmark of the team’s identity.
Whether this confidence is justified or misguided is ultimately irrelevant. The core belief within the team is palpable, and as long as that exists, it’s hard to count them out. — Carmen Vitali
The Bills have been on an offensive tear, scoring 90 points in two weeks but conceding 86. Can Josh Allen lead them to Super Bowl glory?
Allen’s potential to shine at an MVP level during the playoffs is evident. His physical attributes—size, speed, and arm strength—make him adaptable to various weather conditions, allowing him to execute Buffalo’s dynamic offense effectively. However, for a championship run, the defense must step up. This season, Buffalo has surrendered an average of 28.3 points per game to teams with winning records. If they face the reigning Super Bowl champions again, their defense will need to perform at peak levels against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs for Allen to work his magic. — Eric D. Williams
Josh Allen’s performance this season has silenced any doubts about his capabilities and the Bills’ potential. Despite concerns regarding talent departures before the season, the focus should shift to the remaining talent within the organization. As one defensive coach from Detroit noted after the recent game, “If you’re the Bills, you’d hope the initial play is covered and let him create.” This mindset has propelled the Bills to become the second-highest scoring offense in the league.
However, the looming threat of facing the defending champions on their journey to the Super Bowl remains. Regardless of the defensive struggles, confidence in Allen’s ability to lead remains high, with the belief that the defense can hold its ground just enough to support him. — Carmen Vitali
Could a successful stint at North Carolina pave the way for Bill Belichick’s return to the NFL? What are the implications?
Belichick clearly aims for this outcome. His recent contract buyout, dropping to a mere $1 million, suggests he’s positioning himself for a potential return. A successful season at Carolina could demonstrate to NFL owners that he remains capable and relevant, adapting his coaching style to resonate with younger players.
Concerns about his relevance surfaced during the 2024 hiring cycle, with doubts about whether he could connect with today’s athletes without the support of Tom Brady. Belichick is determined to prove the critics wrong. While many owners may still prefer younger candidates, the allure of a proven winner can be compelling. If he succeeds at UNC, at least one owner may be tempted to offer him a chance to return to the NFL. — Ralph Vacchiano
Belichick’s appeal continues to resonate with certain teams. While some may view his methods as outdated, his ability to connect with players will be tested in the recruiting process. His recent decision to appoint Michael Lombardi as general manager at UNC indicates a willingness to focus solely on coaching, distancing himself from his previous dual roles in the NFL.
Belichick’s strategic moves at UNC could serve as signals to the NFL that he is evolving. Like a quarterback prospect aiming for a first-round pick, he must convince at least one team that he is worth the risk. — Henry McKenna
Despite his ambitions, Belichick finds himself at UNC due to NFL teams passing on him. If he couldn’t attract interest with eight Super Bowl rings, winning the Fenway Bowl may not change that. The ACC offers opportunities for success, but his new role involves managing a roster of young athletes he is just beginning to know. A 9-4 record may be possible, but that may not be enough to regain NFL attention, especially after the Patriots’ decline. — Greg Auman
The NFL has made its stance clear, with ownership hesitant to rehire the most successful coach in its history. Belichick’s age, the Patriots’ struggles post-Brady, and his desire for control present significant barriers to a return to the NFL. However, building a successful program at North Carolina could help reshape his image and demonstrate a different side of his coaching abilities. Ultimately, it only takes one owner willing to take a chance on a coach of his caliber. — Eric D. Williams
With Sam Darnold performing well, should the Vikings consider a long-term deal and trade first-round pick J.J. McCarthy, who has been sidelined with a torn meniscus? With Daniel Jones also in the mix, what direction should Minnesota take at quarterback?
Kevin O’Connell’s proven success with quarterbacks offers the Vikings a solid foundation for future decisions. His ability to revitalize Darnold’s career and maximize Kirk Cousins’ performance indicates a strong track record. Retaining McCarthy on a rookie deal while potentially signing Jones to a short-term contract could provide Minnesota with the best chance to build a competitive team for the future. — Ben Arthur
The Vikings invested significantly in McCarthy, selecting him in the first round. Darnold’s recent success highlights O’Connell’s effectiveness in developing quarterbacks. Unless Darnold leads the team on a deep playoff run, it may be wise to let him pursue a lucrative contract elsewhere and start fresh with McCarthy. This strategy could free up approximately $35 million to enhance the roster and provide McCarthy the support he needs to thrive in the offense. — Greg Auman
The decision hinges on Darnold’s contract demands and the Vikings’ playoff performance. If he leads them deep into the postseason, it would be difficult to part ways. In that case, a long-term deal would be prudent. However, if his asking price is excessive, the team could focus on building around Jones until McCarthy recovers. With O’Connell’s reputation for developing quarterbacks, the Vikings are in a favorable position. Additionally, Darnold might be inclined to accept a lower salary to remain in a promising situation like Minnesota. — Eric D. Williams
A banner could express frustration at the current state of the Giants, asking fans if they truly believe in the direction of the team. If such a message were to fly over the stadium, it would be directed at ownership, urging them to stop the cycle of constant firings.
While a Super Bowl appearance seems unlikely for the Giants next season, sometimes the most effective moves are the ones left unmade. — Ralph Vacchiano
Contrary to that sentiment, the focus should remain on acquiring a quarterback. With the Giants positioned for a top-two draft pick, they lack a quarterback capable of leading the team. While neither Shedeur Sanders nor Cam Ward may be as impressive as last year’s top prospects, both possess the potential to significantly impact a franchise’s future, making them worth the risk.
