D’Andre Swift, and the other Detroit Lions youth players consider Sunday the most important game in their lives.
With one remaining regular season game, the Lions remain in playoff contention. The playoff implications of Sunday’s game between Detroit and Green Bay Packers are so significant that it was made the Sunday Night Football match.
Swift represents a rare case in the Lions offense. His production has been hampered by injuries. Despite this, his running back performance has been exceptional in recent weeks with 2 touchdowns.
The running back feels better now that he has recovered from shoulder and ankle injuries that kept him out of the game. He is determined to play his best in order for his team’s season to continue.
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It’s been really good. Since Week 1, I have faced many adversities. Being able to compete each week with my team and having the kind of season we have had is a blessing. The winning season was a much bigger win than the years before. It’s just how we deal with adversity and all that we face each week. It’s a proud moment to have been a part.
Jared Goff is a second-year Quarterback for the team. He’s 28 and has already played six playoff games. He also played against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl 52.
The young team benefits from the veteran’s experience as a quarterback. Because he has experience in handling the emotions of win-or go-home situations, the veteran is able to remain calm.
(c) Ed Mulholland – USA TODAY Sports
Goff talked to media about the importance of games for youth players, and how important they can be in their growth earlier this week.
Goff stated, “Yeah, sure. When you’re younger, absolutely.” It’s important to play in situations that really matter late in the season, and we hope for some playoff games. These games are important. They’re important, because they have a bigger meaning and are on the road. You can find it in Lambeau and everything that goes into making it. We’ll be there. “We’ll have fun and maybe even chase them down.”
Goff’s vast experience will be a great asset to the rest of team. Swift stated that Goff’s experience will be a great asset to the team in difficult situations.
“(It’s) real comforting,” Swift explained. Swift explained that Swift has been there and seen it many times before. Goff is having a great year and it’s great to be there with him. The guys are all excited. Because he’s experienced there, he knows the atmosphere. He understands what’s at stake.
Swift is just one of many youngsters who are getting their first experience of playoff life. The game’s importance is a constant reminder to Dan Campbell, Detroit coach. Campbell isn’t content to make this feel just another game.
Swift is a third year running back and has never played in a sport that carries such a heavy weight throughout his professional career. Swift, a Georgia product, acknowledges it as the most significant showdown in his career.
“For sure, most definitely,” Swift said. It’s a playoff match, to my mind. Everybody’s watching Sunday Night Football. This is the best Sunday Night Football you can find.