Last night’s historic Lions’ 31-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings was a defining moment for this team. While other playoff-bound teams chose to “rest their starters,” the Lions and the Vikings faced their most critical challenge this season. For the first time in NFL history, two 14-2 teams would be battling it out for the NFC North and the NFC division title. After all their hard work, explosive triumphs, and heartbreaking moments leading to this season’s franchise-best record, the Lions still couldn’t claim the NFC North title. At least not yet.
Detroit Lions Victory Is One for the Ages
Heading into the game, the prevailing sentiment was that these two teams were evenly matched. Both Sam Darnold and Jared Goff are enjoying career-best seasons. Goff has been sensational for the Lions, leading this team as an MVP-caliber talent . Playing the best football of his career, Goff entered Sunday night’s contest with just under 4,400 yards and 36 touchdowns. Under the skillful guidance of Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell , NFL journeyman Darnold is experiencing a career renaissance this season, posting 4,319 yards with 35 touchdowns.
The game was expected to be a high-scoring battle featuring two of the NFL’s top offenses and the over/under at 56.5 points. But as soon as these two teams stepped onto the field, it was evident Sunday night’s game belonged to the Lions. These players believed at their core that the NFC division title was theirs. The Lions were in control of their destiny and this team would not be denied.
Last night’s win is a testament to the plan Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell put in place four years ago to completely overhaul an organization that was a perennial NFL dungeon dweller. They created a winning culture that is disciplined, well-coached, and unified with one common goal; winning the championship.
Lions Defense Dominant In Victory
Despite the predictions about which offense would prevail, this game was all about the defense. Aaron Glenn’s defense dominated last night. Back on the field for the first time since fracturing his forearm in week 11, Alex Anzalone’s presence sparked the defense with seven tackles, a quarterback hit, and a pass defense. Relentless in keeping the Vikings out of the endzone, the Lions’ defense held strong. Twice, the Vikings attempted to convert inside the red zone on 4th down and both times, the team came away empty-handed. Minnesota’s only points came off three Will Reichard field goals.
Amik Robertson was sensational in his coverage of Justin Jefferson. He held one of the league’s top receivers to three receptions for 54 yards. Determined to get a little payback on his former team, Za’Darius Smith hit Darnold with a sack early in the game. Later on, he slapped Darnold’s shoulder coming on him from behind to defend a pass. Al-Quadin Muhammad had a huge sack on Darnold in the 4th quarter, forcing the team to punt.
The Offense Set Another Franchise Record
Throughout it all, the Lions’ offense went on the attack with Jahmyr Gibbs as the workhorse. Setting a new franchise record for the most touchdowns in a season with 20, Gibbs found the end zone four times against the Vikings. Continuing his exceptional season, “Sonic” added three more rushing touchdowns for a total of 16 and one receiving touchdown, increasing his total to four. Gibbs finished the regular season with just under 2,000 total yards with 1,412 rushing and 517 receiving yards.
With two interceptions, it wasn’t a perfect night for Goff. But he made some stunning precision throws, spreading the ball to Amon-Ra-St. Brown (six receptions for 77 yards) Sam LaPorta,(seven catches for 63 yards), and Jameson Williams, (six receptions for 34 yards.) Goff finished the night completing 27 of 33 for 231 yards with one touchdown.
Lions Next Challenge En Route To Super Bowl Victory
The Lions’ victory earned them the NFC Division title for the second consecutive year, the number-one seed, and home-field advantage. It also earned them a much-needed week off. One hurdle down. However, the quest for the ultimate prize and Super Bowl greatness continues. Enjoy the week off boys. Rest up and get ready for what lies ahead next. The best is yet to come.
Main Photo: Junfu Han – USA Today Sports
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