Locked On Lions - Daily Podcast On The Detroit Lions

Detroit Lions surge to the NFL’s top tackling spot as trade deadline rumors intensify. Can improved fundamentals and potential roster reinforcements fuel a playoff push?

Host Matt Dery breaks down the Lions’ defensive transformation, spotlighting Cade Mays’ strong performance at center, Brian Branch’s versatile return, and the defense’s elite tackling rate. The conversation explores Kelvin Sheppard’s impact, key stops against the Green Bay Packers, and upcoming tests versus the undefeated Minnesota Vikings. With names like DJ Reed, Ennis Rakestraw, and potential trade target Dante Jackson in the spotlight, pressing questions emerge: Will GM Brad Holmes...

Detroit Lions silence Green Bay Packers’ complaints with gritty 20-17 win. Despite controversial officiating and postgame “whining” from Packers fans, Detroit’s defense steps up when it matters, limiting Jordan Love and the Packers’ run game while capitalizing on key moments at Ford Field.

Matt Dery highlights the emergence of Kelvin Shepperd’s revitalized Lions defense, standout performances from Aidan Hutchinson and Brian Branch, and Jahmyr Gibbs’ smart late-game clock management. PFF grades reveal both the top and bottom performers, while injury updates on Amon-Ra St. Brown and Ennis Rakestraw keep fans on alert. The discussion explores how special te...

LIONS SQUAD SHOW: WALK-OFF WINNER! Detroit Lions BEAT Green Bay Packers In WILD Divisional Showdown

Detroit Lions News discussed Locked On Lions SQUAD SHOW twice per week with Jake Riepma, Natalie Kerwin & Bradford Banta, joined weekly by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Detroit Lions Schedule:

Sun, Sept. 13
vs. New Orleans Saints
1:00 PM
FOX 
W 31-30

Thu, Sept. 17
at Buffalo Bills
8:15 PM
Amazon Prime
L 41-31

Sun, Sept. 27
vs. New York Jets
1:00 PM
W 31-24

Detroit Lions edge out Green Bay Packers in a chaotic 20-17 thriller as Jahmyr Gibbs' late-game heroics and a controversial officiating performance steal the spotlight. Can Dan Campbell’s squad sustain momentum despite costly fumbles, questionable coaching calls, and an abysmal refereeing crew? Jared Goff continues his interception-free streak, while Amon-Ra St. Brown torches the Packers' secondary with 153 receiving yards.

Matt Dery breaks down standout moments from Khalil Dorsey’s defensive plays to Brian Branch’s momentum-shifting interception. Key topics include the impact of costly penalties, Ford Field’s electrifying atmosphere, and whether the Lions can clean up execu...

Detroit Lions star Sam LaPorta faces contract controversy just days before a pivotal NFC North clash with the Green Bay Packers. Will LaPorta’s candid comments about his future and desire for a top-tier payday spark locker room tension or galvanize the squad at Ford Field? Head coach Dan Campbell dubs the situation a “distraction,” amplifying the stakes as division play heats up.

Host Matt Dery breaks down LaPorta’s public response, his improved tone today, Campbell’s brusque reaction, and the high expectations for the Lions’ offense. Key topics include critical injuries to both Detroit’s and Green Bay’...

Crossover Thursday. Detroit Lions brace for a season-defining clash as returning stars Brian Branch and Cade Mays rejoin the lineup just in time for a Ford Field showdown against the Green Bay Packers. With both teams surging and divisional bragging rights at stake, the spotlight lands on matchups like Jared Goff vs. Jordan Love and explosive receiver duos Christian Watson/Matthew Golden against Jameson Williams/Amon-Ra St. Brown. Can the Lions’ rested offense and revamped offensive line hold up against Green Bay’s relentless pressure and red-hot safety duo Evan Williams/Xavier McKinney?

Peter Bukowski and Matt Dery...

LIONS SQUAD SHOW: Sam LaPorta Disgruntled, Cade Mays Starting + Detroit Lions vs Green Bay Packers

Detroit Lions News discussed Locked On Lions SQUAD SHOW twice per week with Jake Riepma, Natalie Kerwin & Bradford Banta, joined weekly by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Detroit Lions Schedule:

Sun, Sept. 13
vs. New Orleans Saints
1:00 PM
FOX 
W 31-30

Thu, Sept. 17
at Buffalo Bills
8:15 PM
Amazon Prime
L 41-31

Sun, Sept. 27
vs. New York Jets
1:00 PM
W 31-24

Sam LaPorta’s future with the Detroit Lions is suddenly uncertain after revealing interview comments spark concern about his commitment to the team. The tight end voiced frustration about contract negotiations and hinted he’s ready to leave and get paid elsewhere if extension talks remain stagnant, raising serious questions for Detroit’s high-powered offense.

Jeff Riger from 97.1 The Ticket joins the show. 

Seasoned Lions fans know how critical LaPorta is to Jared Goff and Ben Johnson’s scheme, especially after injuries and his breakout performances last year. As negotiations are reportedly tabled, can the Lions ris...

The Detroit Lions offense meets its toughest test yet as they battle the Green Bay Packers' ball-hawking defense in a crucial NFC North showdown. With Jared Goff leading the league’s most efficient, high-scoring attack—turning the ball over just once in five games—the matchup against a Packers unit that sits atop the NFL in turnovers forced will determine which contender’s strength prevails. Can first-year offensive coordinator Drew Petzing keep the Lions’ record pace against Jonathan Gannon’s opportunistic Packers secondary?

Brian Branch’s return adds a spark to a Detroit defense that’s struggled in the secondary...

Detroit Lions fans get the update they've been waiting for as Brian Branch and Cade Mays are expected to return to the lineup in a crucial divisional stretch at Ford Field. With Branch set to inject much-needed energy and leadership into the struggling Lions defense, can Detroit fix their issues in coverage and climb from the NFL basement in defensive success rate? The offense, led by Jared Goff and a resurgent Juice Scruggs, also faces tough decisions as the rotation and starting spots on the offensive line become hot topics.

NFL Week 6 action shakes up the NFC...

The Detroit Lions face a surprising dilemma as Cade Mays returns from injury, challenging Juice Scruggs for the starting center position after Scruggs' standout five-game performance—leaving fans to ask: should the Lions stick with what’s working or reinstate their prized offseason acquisition? Detroit’s offensive line, rated top in the NFL by Pro Football Focus, has helped spark explosive numbers from Jared Goff and Jahmyr Gibbs, but the upcoming Green Bay Packers matchup could force a crucial decision impacting team chemistry and production.

With the bye week ahead, the Lions look to improve third-down defense, addres...

Detroit Lions fans are buzzing with anticipation as the trade deadline approaches—will Brad Holmes make a bold move to strengthen the defense? With names like Zion McCollum, Kamari Lassiter, Dante Jackson, and Greg Newsome circulating as potential trade targets, the Lions’ secondary is primed for a possible shakeup. The return of Brian Branch after injury sparks questions about the team’s evolving defensive lineup, while rookie Keith Abney’s emergence at safety and Christian Izien’s role add intrigue to the depth chart.

On offense, Jared Goff delivers MVP-caliber performances, Jahmyr Gibbs continues to rack up touchdowns...

LIONS SQUAD SHOW: BYE WEEK TO-DO’S: Detroit Lions ENTER Bye Week; What’s Next For Lions + Wishlist

Detroit Lions News discussed Locked On Lions SQUAD SHOW twice per week with Jake Riepma, Natalie Kerwin & Bradford Banta, joined weekly by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Detroit Lions Schedule:

Sun, Sept. 13
vs. New Orleans Saints
1:00 PM
FOX 
W 31-30

Thu, Sept. 17
at Buffalo Bills
8:15 PM
Amazon Prime
L 41-31

Sun, Sept. 27
vs. New York Jets
1:00 PM
W 31...

Detroit Lions find defensive spark, but can they sustain momentum after the bye? Key changes in the secondary—highlighted by rookie Abney’s surprise move to safety—leave fans questioning what’s next for Dan Campbell’s squad as they eye the NFC North crown.

Host Matt Dery and guest Bradford Banta break down the Lions’ dominant road win over the Arizona Cardinals, emphasizing 3-and-outs, Alim McNeill’s breakout, and the emergence of young defenders like Rakestraw and Abney. With Brad Holmes evaluating possible roster additions and Green Bay looming, the conversation explores Jared Goff’s MVP-caliber start, offensive...

Detroit Lions dominate with a league-best offense—can the O-line keep this pace? Matt Dery spotlights Detroit’s electric scoring surge, powered by Penei Sewell, Christian Mahogany, and standout rookie Blake Miller. Jared Goff’s precise passing and Jahmyr Gibbs’ versatile play spark a breakdown of the unit’s statistical achievements, red-hot streak, and lingering questions about their sluggish first quarters and play-calling predictability.

The episode tackles a controversial CBS Sports take questioning Goff’s impact, prompting debate over the quarterback’s value and league rankings. Dery unpacks the latest ESPN power rankings and explores soaring NFC North competit...

Detroit Lions shake up their defense with a bold move—and rookie Keith Abney seizes his moment at strong safety in a blowout victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Can this newfound versatility propel the Lions to the top of the NFC North, where every team currently boasts a winning record?

Host Matt Dery spotlights Abney’s unexpected start, key contributions from Jahmyr Gibbs and Sam LaPorta, and pivotal adjustments by Kelvin Sheppard and Dan Campbell. The episode unpacks Pro Football Focus grades, crucial injury updates—including the season-ending setback for punt returner Tom Kennedy—and the emerging locker r...

LIONS SQUAD SHOW: Detroit Lions CRUSH Arizona Cardinals, 3-2 Heading To Bye Week | Postgame Show

Detroit Lions News discussed Locked On Lions SQUAD SHOW twice per week with Jake Riepma, Natalie Kerwin & Bradford Banta, joined weekly by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Detroit Lions Schedule:

Sun, Sept. 13
vs. New Orleans Saints
1:00 PM
FOX 
W 31-30

Thu, Sept. 17
at Buffalo Bills
8:15 PM
Amazon Prime
L 41-31

Sun, Sept. 27
vs. New York Jets
1:00 PM
W 31-24

Detroit Lions crush Arizona Cardinals with Jared Goff’s MVP-caliber performance—could this be the momentum swing Detroit needs before the bye? The conversation focused on Goff’s precision passing, Jahmyr Gibbs’ explosive 207 yards and two touchdowns, and the team’s revitalized identity built on aggressive playcalling and physical defense. Creative offensive schemes by Drew Petzing and gutsy fourth-down decisions fueled Detroit’s 45-21 road victory.

A key theme that emerged was the Lions’ defensive resurgence, featuring Roger McCreary’s lockdown corner play and DJ Wonnum's consistent pass rush. The discussion explored special teams impact, improved gap discipline, and...

Detroit Lions face a pivotal test as defensive coordinator Kelvin Shepard’s job hangs in the balance ahead of their clash with the Arizona Cardinals. Matt Dery questions whether Sheppard's assertive defense of his play-calling will silence critics or spark bigger changes if the secondary continues to struggle. Key injuries to Brian Branch and Cade Mays add to the intrigue, with rookies and backups poised to step up against Jacoby Brissett, Michael Wilson, and Trey McBride.

Dery breaks down Dan Campbell’s call for more turnovers, increased quarterback pressure, and the elimination of mental errors, wondering if the...

Arizona Cardinals and Detroit Lions primed for a shootout as defensive woes set the stage for a high-scoring Week 5 clash. Can Jahmyr Gibbs and Amon-Ra St. Brown exploit the Cardinals’ struggling defense, or will Michael Wilson and Trey McBride torch the Lions’ depleted secondary yet again?

Matt Dery and Alex Clancy spotlight key matchups—Wilson vs. DJ Reed, Amon-Ra vs. Garrett Williams, and Aidan Hutchinson targeting Arizona’s weakened left side. Discussion heats up around Drew Petzing’s inconsistent offense, the Lions’ penalty woes, and Jared Goff’s steady leadership. With questions swirling around Jacoby Brissett’s deep-ball potent...

LIONS SQUAD SHOW: Detroit Lions Take On Arizona Cardinals, Brian Branch Cade Mays Return To Practice

Detroit Lions News discussed Locked On Lions SQUAD SHOW twice per week with Jake Riepma, Natalie Kerwin & Bradford Banta, joined weekly by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Detroit Lions Schedule:

Sun, Sept. 13
vs. New Orleans Saints
1:00 PM
FOX 
W 31-30

Thu, Sept. 17
at Buffalo Bills
8:15 PM
Amazon Prime
L 41-31

Sun, Sept. 27
vs. New York Jets
1:00 PM
W 31-24

Detroit Lions scramble for answers at cornerback as trade rumors heat up—will Brad Holmes pull the trigger on a deal to rescue the secondary? Names like Jalen Ramsey, Khristian Fulton, Kamari Lassiter, and Greg Newsome swirl amid concerns about Detroit’s pass defense and potential midseason shakeups.

Matt Dery's conversation focused on possible trade targets, Dan Campbell’s comments on rookie Keith Abney’s expanded role, and internal solutions following injuries to Rock Ya-Sin. Insights included debates over Jim Schwartz’s possible return as a senior defensive assistant, concerns about offensive creativity under Drew Petzing, and why Michae...

Detroit Lions face offensive accountability as Dan Campbell demands more firepower. Can Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown spark a scoring surge to cover for a struggling defense? Special guest Mike Tirico of NBC Sports offers sharp insights on the team’s identity crisis and the Lions’ bold expectations for greatness—35 points per game or bust.

Key topics include the Lions’ woes in man coverage, the impact of injuries to Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, and whether secondary shakeups or a coaching change can fix the leaks. The discussion explores the value of trade targets like Zyon McCollum...

Detroit Lions fans demand answers after a crushing defensive collapse sparks calls for major changes. Can Dan Campbell and the coaching staff turn things around before it’s too late?

The conversation focused on the Lions’ historically poor defensive performance, highlighted by allowing 1,216 passing yards in four games. Key themes included criticism of defensive coordinator Kelvin Shepard, the puzzling use of Aidan Hutchinson as a slot cornerback, and debate over whether talent or schematics are to blame. The discussion explored Pro Football Focus grades for standout players like Hutchinson and Jack Campbell as well as potential trade targ...

LIONS SQUAD SHOW: Detroit Lions Vs Carolina Panthers Postgame Show | Sunday Night Football, October 4

Detroit Lions News discussed Locked On Lions SQUAD SHOW twice per week with Jake Riepma, Natalie Kerwin & Bradford Banta, joined weekly by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Detroit Lions Schedule:

Sun, Sept. 13
vs. New Orleans Saints
1:00 PM
FOX 
W 31-30

Thu, Sept. 17
at Buffalo Bills
8:15 PM
Amazon Prime
L 41-31

Sun, Sept. 27
vs. New York Jets
1:00 PM
W 31-24

S...

Detroit Lions’ defense collapses in 32-26 loss to Carolina Panthers—can Dan Campbell’s squad right the ship before the season slips away?

Matt Dery highlights the Lions’ alarming defensive struggles as Bryce Young torches Detroit’s secondary and Tet McMillan racks up a stunning 14 catches for 192 yards. The conversation focused on glaring coverage breakdowns, Jack Campbell’s difficulties in pass defense, and head-scratching coaching decisions. Offensive frustrations surface as Jahmyr Gibbs is underutilized against the NFL’s worst run defense, while crucial drops from Jameson Williams stall momentum. The discussion explored mounting penalties, missed opportunities, and the pressure o...

Detroit Lions eye a statement win as they target the NFL’s worst run defense. Can Jahmyr Gibbs and the offensive line power through the battered Carolina Panthers on Sunday Night Football?

Matt Dery spotlights Detroit’s ground game strategy against a Panthers squad allowing 193.3 rushing yards per game, while raising critical questions about Joey Porter Jr.’s trade situation and the Lions’ secondary struggles. Key topics include Dan Campbell’s candid roster insights, Brian Branch’s return timeline, and how Carolina’s mounting injuries—like the loss of Damian Lewis and Jaycee Horn—tilt the matchup in Detroit’s favor...

Crossover Thursday! Can Bryce Young and the depleted Panthers secondary contain Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Amon-Ra St. Brown, especially with weather threats looming over Charlotte? Turnovers and the battle in the trenches could make all the difference as both teams search for a statement win under the lights.

Matt Dery and Julian Council break down key matchups, highlighting the Lions’ explosive offense against a Carolina defense missing Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson. Discussion centers on the impact of the Panthers’ struggling run game, the challenge of stopping Detroit’s high-powered attack, and how injuries to both offens...

LIONS SQUAD SHOW: Joey Porter JR To Dallas; Detroit Expressed Interest + Lions vs Panthers On SNF

Detroit Lions News discussed Locked On Lions SQUAD SHOW twice per week with Jake Riepma, Natalie Kerwin & Bradford Banta, joined weekly by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Detroit Lions Schedule:

Sun, Sept. 13
vs. New Orleans Saints
1:00 PM
FOX 
W 31-30

Thu, Sept. 17
at Buffalo Bills
8:15 PM
Amazon Prime
L 41-31

Sun, Sept. 27
vs. New York Jets
1:00 PM
W 31-24

Detroit Lions eye a crucial advantage as injuries decimate the Carolina Panthers ahead of Sunday Night Football—could this be the breakout the Lions need? Matt Dery spotlights the battered Panthers roster, including absences of Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson, and outlines how Detroit must exploit backup linemen and a depleted secondary. Weather looms large, with predicted thunderstorms threatening to be the game’s ultimate equalizer.

The discussion turns to Jared Goff’s response on the St. Brown Brothers podcast to Ben Johnson’s media jabs, with exclusive insight into their off-field exchange. Dery analyzes ESPN’s latest NFL...

Detroit Lions’ defensive woes put playoff hopes in question as injuries mount and Jared Goff faces public jabs from Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson AGAIN. Is the Lions’ secondary the Achilles’ heel that could undo their explosive offense and dark-horse Super Bowl ambitions?

Matt Dery and guest Jacob Robinson (The Athletic) break down Detroit’s 2-1 start, highlighting the impact of missing key defenders like Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch, and debating trade targets such as Joey Porter Jr. and Maxx Crosby. Discussion spotlights Jahmyr Gibbs’ offensive dominance, mixed results among cornerbacks, and the challenges ahead against a banged-u...

Detroit Lions notch thrilling victory over New York Jets, but lingering concerns remain about their pass defense—and Super Bowl hopes. Can the Lions’ high-octane offense keep compensating for a secondary allowing nearly 900 yards through three games?

Matt Dery breaks down the Lions’ roller-coaster win, spotlighting Jahmyr Gibbs’ breakout performance and Penei Sewell’s dominance on the offensive line. Discussion covers the struggles of DJ Reed and Rock Ya-Sin, the emergence of Christian Izien, and Dan Campbell’s endorsement of expanded roles for Trevor Nowaske and Ennis Rakestraw. Listener questions fuel speculation about a potential trade for Joey Porter...

Detroit Lions survive wild finish against New York Jets as Jahmyr Gibbs sets NFL history with a three-touchdown performance. Can the Lions’ explosive offense cover for a struggling secondary on their quest for division glory?

The conversation focused on the Lions’ record-setting run of consecutive 30-point games, Gibbs’ unprecedented statistical start, and explosive plays from DJ Wonnum and Christian Izien. A key theme that emerged was the Lions’ persistent defensive weaknesses—especially in the secondary with players like DJ Reed and Roger McCreary—fueling speculation about a potential Joey Porter trade. The discussion explored Kelvin Shepard’s gutsy late-gam...

LIONS SQUAD SHOW: Detroit Lions HOLD ON To BEAT New York Jets, Jahmyr Gibbs Balls Out With 3 TDs

Detroit Lions News discussed Locked On Lions SQUAD SHOW twice per week with Jake Riepma, Natalie Kerwin & Bradford Banta, joined weekly by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Detroit Lions Schedule:

Sun, Sept. 13
vs. New Orleans Saints
1:00 PM
FOX 
W 31-30

Thu, Sept. 17
at Buffalo Bills
8:15 PM
Amazon Prime
L 41-31

Sun, Sept. 27
vs. New York Jets
1:00 PM
F...

Detroit Lions face mounting pressure as defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard confronts a struggling defense—23 explosive plays surrendered in just two weeks have fans and coaches searching for answers. Can Sheppard’s brutally honest film sessions and player accountability meetings turn things around before the matchup against the New York Jets at Ford Field? The Lions’ secondary is in flux, with Christian Izien stepping up amid key injuries to Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph, Avonte Maddox, and Thomas Harper.

The discussion explores injury setbacks on both sides, including the Jets missing tight end Mason Taylor and wide receiver A.D. Mit...

Crossover Thursday! Detroit Lions and New York Jets clash at Ford Field, both eager to prove their playoff credentials after up-and-down starts. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn’s much-debated return to Detroit sparks tough questions about his game management, as clock mishaps and controversial challenges contributed to the Jets’ recent stumbles. Can the Lions exploit the Jets’ secondary, or will Glenn’s inside knowledge of Detroit’s offense shift the balance?

Matt Dery and John Butchko break down the pivotal battles: Jahmyr Gibbs aims to break through a revamped Jets run defense led by T'Vondre Sweat and DeMario Davis, whi...

Detroit Lions fans are buzzing as rumors swirl about a potential Jamaal Williams reunion. With Isiah Pacheco sidelined and the running back room in flux, Williams expresses interest in a comeback, but Coach Dan Campbell appears hesitant. How would bringing Williams back affect Jahmyr Gibbs and Sione Vaki's roles, and can Detroit recapture that explosive 2022 run game magic?

Host Matt Dery examines critical roster moves, including Seth McLaughlin’s promotion and an injury update on safety Thomas Harper. Special guest Adam Amin (NFL on Fox) provides expert analysis on the Lions’ early-season struggles, the impact of preseason phil...

LIONS SQUAD SHOW: Detroit Lions Look To TURN THE PAGE & BOUNCE BACK vs New York Jets In NFL Week 3

Detroit Lions News discussed Locked On Lions SQUAD SHOW twice per week with Jake Riepma, Natalie Kerwin & Bradford Banta, joined weekly by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Detroit Lions Schedule:

Sun, Sept. 13
vs. New Orleans Saints
1:00 PM
FOX 
W 31-30

Thu, Sept. 17
at Buffalo Bills
8:15 PM
Amazon Prime
L 41-31

Sun, Sept. 27
vs. New York Jets
1:00 PM

Detroit Lions face mounting pressure after rocky start, but can they turn things around with a “guaranteed” win over the New York Jets? Key injuries to the secondary—including uncertainty around Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch—threaten the defense, raising questions about Detroit’s Super Bowl aspirations and playoff hopes.

Matt Dery breaks down recent roster moves, including the signings of Jalen Mills and rookie Bishop Fitzgerald, and examines Jack Campbell’s performance drop at linebacker. The conversation focused on the Jets’ top-ranked defense, the struggles of the Lions’ offense, and whether home-field advantage will spark a resurgence. Insi...

Detroit Lions scramble after Avonte Maddox’s season-ending injury exposes major defensive concerns. With Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph sidelined, the Lions resort to tryouts and bring back Jalen Mills as Aaron Glenn’s high-powered New York Jets defense heads to Ford Field. Can Detroit’s battered secondary withstand the NFL’s top-ranked defense, or is a deeper roster problem brewing?

Matt Dery questions GM Brad Holmes’ draft decisions, highlights Kelvin Sheppard’s coaching challenges, and debates whether the Lions’ defensive failures stem from schematic issues or lack of talent. The conversation explores Dan Campbell’s loyalty to his staff, hu...