---
title: "Lions defense responds in 45-21 win at Glendale"
url: https://www.heredetroit.com/2026/10/12/lions-defense-responds-cardinals-glendale/
date: 2026-10-12T06:47:04-04:00
modified: 2026-10-14T15:40:56-04:00
author: "Marlee Howell-Keeler"
categories: ["Sports"]
site: "HERE Detroit"
attribution: "HERE Detroit"
---

# Lions defense responds in 45-21 win at Glendale

*Source: [HERE Detroit](https://www.heredetroit.com/2026/10/12/lions-defense-responds-cardinals-glendale/) — October 12, 2026 by Marlee Howell-Keeler*

Glendale, Ariz. — Detroit’s defense answered early criticism Sunday, stuffing five straight Arizona series after an opening touchdown and finishing with five sacks in a 45-21 win at State Farm Stadium.

Dan Campbell said the unit attacked the run, stayed sticky in coverage and played aggressively after coordinator Kelvin Sheppard and the staff pushed for a response.

Detroit logged a dozen hits on the quarterback and six tackles behind the line. Arizona managed just 56 rushing yards. Keith Abney II started at safety for the first time and came away with his first pick.

The Lions planned more man coverage after leaning zone early. Roger McCreary and D.J. Reed pressed receivers as Detroit built a 31-7 lead in the third quarter.

Detroit moved to 3-2 and heads into its bye before Green Bay. Jahmyr Gibbs added two rushing touchdowns and 151 rushing yards in the offensive surge that followed the defensive stops.