What does Campbell think of the impact special teams has had on the outcome of so many games early this season?
The Lions had a big special teams play with Kalif Raymond’s 65-yard punt return touchdown helping to blow the game open for the Lions Sunday against the Browns. A blocked field goal determined the outcome in the Bears-Raiders game Sunday. There was a blocked extra point returned for two points that helped lead to a tie between Green Bay and Dallas Sunday night.
In Week 3, there were several blocked field goals that impacted games across the league.
Campbell said he loves it and hates it at the same time.
“Because I can put myself in the shoes of the field goal protection team,” said Campbell, who played on those teams as a player in the NFL. “You can appreciate the guys who go for the blocks but most of the time, it’s the protection. Most of the time. Is it your own doing?”
Campbell said it’s always tough to lose that way on a blocked kick and it’s a reminder of how important special teams are and how just one play on teams can impact an outcome.
“We’re not going to let that happen here,” Campbell said.
Campbell said there was a time he almost gave up a field goal block as a player be he lucked out. Julius Peppers had a free run after Campbell missed the block, and the ball went by Peppers’ hand. The kick was missed but Peppers ran into the kicker, so they got another chance and made it. It’s clearly something Campbell hasn’t forgotten.