6 Lions coordinator takeaways: Detroit’s defense starting to hit its goals

Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard revealed that Detroit's defense achieved all three of its specific benchmarks in back-to-back games. Speaking during Thursday's coordinator press conferences following a win over the Green Bay Packers, Sheppard highlighted the team's progress while noting that self-inflicted explosive plays and fourth-down coverage breakdowns are being addressed ahead of the upcoming matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.

Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing discussed cleaning up negative plays in the run game by improving front-line identification and execution. Meanwhile, special teams coordinator Dave Fipp credited linebacker Trevor Nowaske for suggesting the rush scheme that led to DJ Wonnum's blocked field goal, while cautioning against Vikings return specialist Myles Price.