Detroit Lions vice chairman Bill Ford Jr. called the Chicago Bears a "bunch of thugs" during a charity event Tuesday night.
It came two days after the Lions defeated the Bears to force a tie for first place in the NFC North between the two rivals.
Ford Jr., the son of Lions owner William Clay Ford, made his comment in response to a question about the atmosphere Sunday at Ford Field.
"It was really alive, and it was alive when we played those same bunch of thugs on Monday Night (two years ago)," Ford said. "When this place gets going, it's electric.
"Our fans are amazing, and we would love to pay them back and bring home a winner. I love the way this team is playing right now."
A Lions' spokesman told reporters that Ford was only "joking" when he called the Bears thugs.
Ford also predicted a victory Sunday at Green Bay, which would break a 22-game road losing streak against the Packers.
Detroit's last victory there came in 1991.
"Green Bay's special," Ford told the crowd. "Special feeling going into Lambeau Field. Always has been. And yet, I hate going up there.
"But when we win this week, it's going to feel a lot better."
