Jameson Williams makes promise to Lions fans after ugly Week 9 loss to Vikings
The Detroit Lions didn't get the job done at home against the Minnesota Vikings, losing 27-24 in a game that wasn't nearly as close as the final score indicated.
Most of the afternoon, the Lions struggled in all three phases of the game, which led to their downfall. In spite of the frustration, there is good news. Detroit has had bad efforts before, and they have bounced back every single time.
The Lions haven't lost two games in a row since the 2022 season, and have made bouncing back strong a penchant under Dan Campbell. Even though this latest loss was frustrating, that major ability to respond is just what wide receiver Jameson Williams sees playing out once again.
"I just know we've got to be better. Going into this (week's) game, we've got to be better. You hate the feeling of losing no matter how the loss comes. (If it's) one point, two points, three points, 40 points, it all feel the same. We just got to get back in and correct our stuff. We're going to be back for sure."
While the Lions lost, the Green Bay Packers also suffered an upset defeat at home, falling to the Carolina Panthers. Detroit may have missed out on a chance to leap atop the NFC North, but have already beaten the Chicago Bears and have more games coming against all three teams down the stretch.
Williams wasn't lamenting a missed opportunity at all, because he understands the Lions still have the opportunity late in the season to shift the narrative head-to-head against divisional foes.
"It's a long season when it comes down to it. I promise that we're going to give it our all and we know where we're headed. We still have to see all three of those teams one more time. So, we decide what goes on by the outcome of those games."
At 5-3, the Lions remain in the thick of the division race and the NFC playoff hunt. They have a chance to rebound quick, and Williams sees the opportunity to do that with a bit more preparation before next weekend.
Williams not focused on personal production after big day vs. Vikings
During the bye week, a big focus for the Lions was figuring out how to get the ball to Williams. He hadn't been involved in the offense statistically, and that was one of the small frustrations Detroit had with their passing attack before Week 9.
The good news? Even though they had other problems, the Lions figured out this dynamic. Williams was dangerous all afternoon, catching four passes for 66 yards and an electrifying late touchdown to pull Detroit back within three.
Despite the solid day, Williams didn't want to think about his improved role in the offense afterward, because the Lions lost. It's a dynamic he has talked about before after victories, and it was on full-display this week.
"It's kind of hard to think about that. We lost, so I'm not really thinking about anything else right now but the loss."
Williams is a team player either way, and will continue to do his part to help the offense. He knows that the Lions have a great chance to atone for their frustrating loss when they hit the road in Week 10.
Vikings trade rumors include potentially acquiring veteran to backup J.J. McCarthy
As the NFL trade deadline looms, several teams are fortifying their status as contenders, while others are ready to throw in the towel and move on from high-priced veterans. The Minnesota Vikings are no different. Sitting at 4-4 and just having won a massive rivalry game against the Detroit Lions, the Vikes think they can make a run to the playoffs.
Most of that excitement has been based on the play of quarterback JJ McCarthy. The former 2024 first-round pick returned from injury and helped guide the team past Detroit. While he didn't put up gaudy numbers, his inspiring play helped fuel will Minnesota to a win.
However, the Vikings went into that game with only two quarterbacks dressed and available to play: McCarthy and little-known backup Max Brosmer.
MORE: 'So f***ing proud': Vikings Coach Kevin O'Connell praises team's win over Lions
CBS Sports writer Johnathon Jones discussed the Vikings' situation in a recent article, stressing that the team is shopping for another QB.
"That building is used to having conversations around the acquisition of quarterbacks," Jones wrote. "I wouldn't be surprised if those conversations continued into Tuesday and resulted in a late pick going somewhere for a low-priced veteran who would not threaten J.J. McCarthy's starting status (Carson Wentz is out for the season). Don't forget Minnesota brought in Daniel Jones last season after he was released by the Giants."
The NFL trade deadline is today (Nov 4) at 4 PM ET, so if the Vikings are going to add another arm in the quarterback rotation, they will have to move swiftly.
