Detroit Lions defense criticized after loss to Carolina Panthers
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 5, 2026, 4:06 AM
Last updated Oct 5, 2026
The Detroit Lions lost to the Carolina Panthers 32-26 on October 4, 2026, drawing significant criticism for their defense. Tetairoa McMillan delivered a standout performance, catching 14 passes for 192 yards and two touchdowns. The Lions have now allowed at least 24 points in all four games this season, maintaining a league-high 898 passing yards allowed prior to this match. Following the loss, some fans and analysts called for coaching changes, particularly targeting defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard as the team fell to 2-2. The Lions' offense managed 452 yards but struggled in the red zone, scoring only two touchdowns on four attempts. They next face Arizona on October 8, 2026.
- •Lions drop to 2-2 after loss to Panthers.
- •Tetairoa McMillan scores two touchdowns, totals 192 receiving yards.
- •Lions have allowed 24+ points in every game this season.
- •Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard faces calls for dismissal.
- •Detroit next plays against Arizona on October 8.
- 4:06 AMYahoo Sports — ‘This Defense Is Bad Bad,’ ‘The Defense Continues to Fail This Team’ — Darius Slay, Lions Writers Rip Detroit After Tetairoa McMillan’s 192-Yard Night
"The Detroit Lions’ defense drew renewed criticism Sunday night after Tetairoa McMillan caught 14 passes for 192 yards and two touchdowns in the Carolina Panthers’ 32-26 win at Bank of America Stadium. The loss dropped Detroit to 2-2, and some fans called for coaching changes, including the firing of defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard.
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