Dan Campbell stresses focus for 2024 Lions: 'We can't do the Ron Burgundy. We can't just continue to read off the teleprompter.'

If Dan Campbell had an opportunity for a do-over, he’d use it on the NFC Championship Game.

Specifically, he would ensure that he and his Lions staff were somewhat more concentrated during their devastating loss to San Francisco.

“Those are the little things where we can really grow offensively and defensively,” Campbell said Thursday, via Sports Illustrated’s All Lions site. “Like the awareness of who’s in, what’s the situation. We know what it says on paper, but we can’t do the Ron Burgundy. We can’t just continue to read off the teleprompter. And that’s the next step, that is the next evolution, because that’s what San Francisco did to us, quite frankly. They played at a different level.”

Essentially, like Will Ferrell’s character in Anchorman, Campbell is focused on ensuring a question mark doesn’t slip into the script (I’m Dan Campbell…?). In football terms, that means matching personnel better and adjusting in game quickly enough to counter an opponent’s approach.

The Lions didn’t manage to prevent San Francisco from overturning a 24-7 halftime deficit. Despite the pleasant feeling of making it to the NFC title game, Campbell is aware that if his team once again falters at a critical juncture in 2024, the increased expectations won’t be favorable to him.

Campbell believes that the work to accomplish this must begin now, not in July when the training camp starts. This is the message he is conveying to his players in June.

Campbell expressed, “I urge everyone to recall our goal. What is it that each of you desire? What outcome do you hope to see by the end of this year?” He continued, “Imagine it’s February and reflect upon your aspirations. Consider these thoughts and let’s strategize accordingly. That will be our guiding principle.”

Currently, it’s all just words. However, Campbell has a history of conveying grand visions to his team and ultimately achieving them.

Now, however, the dream has expanded. And in his perception, there is only one method to realize it.

“I want the whole enchilada,” Campbell stated. “You know what I’m after.”