ALLEN PARK, Mich. – Detroit Lions assistant head coach Scottie Montgomery and defensive assistant Jim O’Neil recently shared their perspectives on the team’s progress following the bye week, ahead of a pivotal matchup against divisional rivals, the Minnesota Vikings.
Montgomery highlighted the importance of continuous improvement and praised the work ethic of players like wide receiver Dominic Lovett, who has shown growth in special teams and scout team roles.
“Dominic provides great looks and has grown at both slot and outside play,” said Montgomery. “He’s learning from veterans and coming along fast.”
Montgomery also discussed the value of scout-team players studying top opponents to elevate their own play.
“Watching the skill set of someone you want to play like helps you sponge all the information you can,” Montgomery said.
Offensive line
On the offensive line, Montgomery praised Graham Glasgow’s transition to center, emphasizing his communication skills and physicality.
Montgomery, the former running backs coach, shared insights on Glasgow’s growth over recent seasons, particularly his transition to the center position.
“Communication is the first thing you notice when someone moves to center,” Montgomery said.
Montgomery recalled testing Glasgow with difficult blitz pickup drills and being impressed by Glasgow’s quick recognition and communication.
“Graham would turn around, give me a look like, ‘I know this one, I’ve seen it before,’ and then quickly communicate down the line without saying much,” Montgomery said.
Montgomery emphasized that the center is the “master communicator,” coordinating not only the offensive line but also relaying information to the quarterback and receivers.
Physically, Glasgow has always been strong, but Montgomery noted he is now playing faster and with more physicality.
“We like what has happened with him right now,” Montgomery said.
Despite concerns after Frank Ragnow’s retirement, Montgomery expressed confidence in Glasgow’s capabilities and praised his communication across the offensive line.
Jameson Williams
Montgomery discussed the challenge of finding a middle ground with Jameson Williams’ production, noting the wide range of his game performances.
“There’s no middle ground, only a ceiling,” Montgomery said. “We’ve got to get to the ceiling.”
Montgomery explained that Williams’ involvement in the progression reads has been inconsistent, sometimes open but not connected, and other times the offense executes well, but the play doesn’t materialize.
Montgomery emphasized the need to get Williams more opportunities, especially on third downs, which are critical for extending drives and creating catch-and-run chances.
“In games where we’re playing well, we see a lot of yards after catch,” Montgomery said.
Regarding Williams’ mental state, Montgomery praised his maturity.
“If he wasn’t a little bit honory right now, it would signal complacency,” Montgomery said.
Despite some frustrations, Montgomery said Williams remains engaged and ready to improve.
Montgomery shared that coaching receivers involves balancing selflessness with confidence.
“You have to have a different level of confidence to finish plays and get the ball in the end zone,” Montgomery said.
Third down
On third-down performance, Montgomery relayed head coach Dan Campbell’s message that improvement requires collective effort, not just scheme or individual players.
“It’s about fundamentals, personnel, and execution,” Montgomery said. “We need more plays, better preparation, and sharper details.”
Montgomery noted that the team has done well in the red zone but needs to translate that efficiency into third-down efficiency.
“It’s not mentality, it’s more scheme, more player effort, and more preparation,” Montgomery said.
Jim O’Neil
O’Neil praised the secondary’s performance on Monday Night Football against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, highlighting contributions from young players like Erick Hallett and Loren Strickland.
“They played fast, aggressively, and showed up when the lights were bright,” said O’Neil.
O’Neil also emphasized the coaching staff’s ability to prepare backups to step up when needed.
“We expect everyone to be ready to play and hold the standard,” O’Neil said.
Brian Branch
O’Neil expressed excitement about Brian Branch’s return to the field following his suspension.
“I think you’ll get an even more motivated Brian Branch,” O’Neil said. “I’m really excited to see how he takes the field on Sunday when he comes out of the tunnel.”
O’Neil described Branch as one of his all-time favorite players and praised his competitive spirit.
“It’s great to have him back,” Montgomery added.
When asked about the support Branch received from teammates and coaches, O’Neil noted that many defensive players wore Branch’s jersey as a sign of solidarity. “
I had my 32 jersey on. Deshea (Townsend) had his on. DC (David Corrao) had his on,” O’Neil said.
O’Neil emphasized that the team stands behind any player going through adversity.
“We would do that for any of our guys,” O’Neil said.
Kerby Joseph
O’Neil also discussed Kerby Joseph’s resilience playing through injury and his role in mentoring younger teammates.
“Kerby’s been outstanding, helping new guys and maintaining his performance despite injury,” O’Neil said.
O’Neil emphasized a collective approach to improving third-down performance, focusing on fundamentals, scheme, and player execution.
“It’s not a mentality, it’s a complete detail in each situation,” O’Neil said.
The Lions host the Vikings on Sunday at 1 p.m. inside Ford Field in a divisional showdown
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