NEWYou can now listen to PK Press Club articles!
The Detroit Lions are scheduled to travel to Lincoln Financial Field this weekend for a Sunday night matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Eagles’ stadium has long been considered an intimidating environment for opposing teams. Campbell became familiar with the Philadelphia atmosphere during his ten-year NFL playing career. Once Campbell’s days as an NFL tight end were over, he turned his attention to coaching. The fifth-year Lions head coach reflected on his experience as a player during his travels to the City of Brotherly Love.
“It’s a great place to play,” Campbell told 97.1 The Ticket in Detroit. “It’s electric.”
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON PK Press Club
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell watches the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 22, 2024, in Glendale, Arizona. (Matt Kartozian/Imagn Images)
Campbell then recalled incidents involving objects thrown at him and his teammates.
“We had batteries thrown at us, spit on, just the standard stuff. It’s probably the most hostile place to play. Entering the stadium, leaving the stadium, during the game. Things have come a long way since then – some of those things you can’t do anymore.”
2025 NFL POWER RANKINGS WEEK 11: THE NFC IS MUCH BETTER THAN THE AFC
The New York Giants selected Campbell in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft. During a visit to Philadelphia during Campbell’s rookie year, Michael Strahan returned an interception for a touchdown. Campbell recalled one fan’s reaction in particular during Strahan’s celebration that followed.
Philadelphia Eagles fans cheer before the NFC Championship Game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 26, 2025. (Bill Streicher/Imagn Images)
“We all went back to meet him, and it was like this guy has a 64-ounce cup full of tobacco spit, and I’m running over there celebrating and he’s pouring it over Strahan’s back while everyone else is running over there,” Campbell said. “I backed out at the last minute. Stuff like that. It’s a hostile environment, it’s exciting.”
Nonetheless, Campbell came to a positive conclusion regarding Sunday. “I’m going to make sure our guys are prepared. They’re going to love it. Our guys are going to embrace this.”
Campbell said he is preparing his players for a big game in Philadelphia, against the defending Super Bowl champions on Sunday night.
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell, foreground, watches from the sidelines during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Rey Del Rio)
“I’m going to give them a really good overview of what it’s going to look like,” Campbell said. “Keep your composure, and every play counts. This is a heavyweight game. One misstep can cost you this game. It shouldn’t make you tight, it shouldn’t make you play conservative, just understand that it’s going to take all three units and every play you have to give it your full attention and put it on the damn line. You can’t ask for anything better. Our guys are going to be so excited to play in this one. Our coaches are excited to coach in it. It’s big time football scale Sunday evening. We are excited.
Campbell played for the Dallas Cowboys from 2003 to 2005. He last appeared in the NFL in 2008 with the Lions.
The Lions bounced back from a surprise Week 9 loss to the Minnesota Vikings by dominating the Washington Commanders this past Sunday.
President Donald Trump attended the game at Northwest Stadium, located about 10 miles from Capitol Hill. During a break in the action, Trump administered an oath to the service members to repeat in an on-the-ground enlistment ceremony.
