Lions defense struggles in loss to Bills as fans call for coaching change
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 3:05 PM
Last updated Sep 18, 2026

The Detroit Lions faced off against the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night, losing 41-31. The Lions' defense allowed 27 points before halftime, with Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen throwing for 248 yards and scoring five touchdowns. After a shaky start to the season, Detroit's defense continues to be criticized, leading to calls from fans for defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard to be dismissed. The Lions, now 1-1, will prepare for their next game against the New York Jets on September 27.
- •Lions lose 41-31 to Bills, dropping to 1-1 this season.
- •Detroit's defense allowed 27 points in the first half.
- •Josh Allen tallied five touchdowns for Buffalo.
- •Calls for Kelvin Sheppard's firing grow among Lions fans.
- •Next game scheduled against the Jets on September 27.
- 3:05 PMYahoo Sports — Lions Fans Want Kelvin Sheppard Fired After Bills Loss
"After Thursday night in Buffalo, Lions fans want one coach gone. #Lions
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