Predicting NFC North head coaches in 2023
Detroit Lions: Dan Campbell
As amazing as the Vikings’ ascent in the NFC North was in 2022, the Detroit Lions were the more impressive overall team to me. Dan Campbell and his crew were the subject of HBO’s Hard Knocks in 2022 and they became beloved by so many football fans as that show aired week after week.
Not only did the Lions capture hearts at the end of summer, but they put their words into action on the field with nine wins and one of the most exciting offenses in the NFL. Although they were able to close the season strong with a win in Green Bay, the Lions didn’t make the postseason. Still, the coaching job done by Campbell and his staff is more than commendable. This guy has changed the culture in Detroit rather quickly.
Green Bay Packers: Matt LaFleur
Is Matt LaFleur a great coach or has he just been going as Aaron Rodgers goes? If the last few years aren’t evidence of the latter, I don’t know what is. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. I don’t think LaFleur is a bad coach, but it would be fascinating to see him without Rodgers and how his program would operate.
As Rodgers’ play took a step back in 2022, so did the Packers as a whole. LaFleur inherited a pretty great situation but his team has gone from being a quick out in the playoffs after a great couple of regular seasons to missing the playoffs completely this year. Don’t be shocked if he’s on thin ice in 2023.