Dan Campbell still haunted by Lions' NFC title game loss to 49ers - ESPN

ALLEN PARK, Mich. — Even during the greatest start in franchise history at 13-2, Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell remains haunted by January's NFC Championship Game in San Francisco.

For Campbell, it still stings, as the Lions blew a 17-point halftime lead. As Detroit prepares for a rematch against the 49ers on Monday night, Campbell likened it to his Super Bowl experience as a player with the New York Giants during the 2000 season. It's something he'll never forget.

«Just like my second year in the league, we go to the Super Bowl and get smashed by Baltimore. I won't ever forget that either. So those stick with you,» Campbell said Saturday. «We just didn't do enough. You learn from every experience. Unfortunately, that's the best way to learn is from the losses. It really is.»

With a victory Monday along with a Minnesota Vikings loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Detroit has a rare opportunity to clinch the NFC North title and the NFC's No. 1 seed. The Lions are one of five teams since seeding began in 1975 that have never been a No. 1 seed, along with the Cardinals, Texans, Buccaneers and Jets.

Lions quarterback Jared Goff said he is aware of what's at stake with a win but is locked in on the task of beating San Francisco.

«We know the scenario, but we certainly don't want to overlook anything or try to hope something happens,» Goff said Thursday. «Whatever happens, happens, so we'll see.»

During the 34-31 loss to San Francisco in January, Campbell faced scrutiny for two critical failed attempts on fourth down in the second half instead of kicking field goals. Players such as All-Pro offensive tackle Penei Sewell defended his coach amid the criticism, telling ESPN in February that he's «got [Campbell's] back