Lions retain control of NFC North with late victory over Packers
DETROIT – The Detroit Lions forcefully secured their position as back-to-back titleholders of the NFC North with a gutsy 34-31 victory over the Green Bay Packers at Ford Field on Thursday night.
The Lions have now won 11 successive games, marking the longest winning streak in franchise history. Despite trailing 28-24 in the fourth quarter and overcoming numerous defensive injuries, the Lions showcased resilience and determination.
The Lions have not lost to Green Bay since November 23, 2023, a streak spanning 378 days. Their only loss this season was against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 15.
Key Highlights from Thursday Night:
Lions’ Offensive Standouts:
- Jared Goff: The Lions quarterback passed for 283 yards and three touchdowns, delivering a stellar performance.
- Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery: Detroit’s dynamic running back duo, dubbed “Sonic & Knuckles,” continued to impress. Montgomery scored first with a 3-yard touchdown on the opening drive, while Gibbs provided a crucial 2-yard receiving touchdown just before halftime. They became the first Lions running back duo to each record at least 12 scrimmage touchdowns in a single season.
Defensive Challenges:
- Terrion Arnold: The rookie cornerback has struggled with pass interference calls, now leading the league with seven this season. His penalty in the end zone set up a Green Bay rushing touchdown.
Surprising Performances:
- Tim Patrick: The wide receiver found a key role in Detroit’s offense, with six catches for 43 yards and two touchdowns. These were Patrick’s first NFL touchdowns since 2021, marking a remarkable comeback from knee and Achilles injuries.
Next Game:
- Detroit Lions: vs. Buffalo Bills (4:25 p.m. ET, Sunday, Dec. 15)
Green Bay Packers:
The Packers, now 9-4, appear to be out of the NFC North race but have not conceded their efforts. They trail the Lions (12-1) and the Vikings (10-2) in the standings.
Key Moments:
- Vital Play: A crucial moment came when the Packers’ defense failed to stop a Lions’ drive in the final minutes. On a second-and-17 from the Packers’ 37-yard line, Goff connected with Amon-Ra St. Brown for 16 yards, setting up the game-winning field goal after a successful fourth-and-1 conversion.
QB Breakdown:
- Jordan Love: The Packers quarterback had a slow start with just 31 passing yards in the first half but rebounded with a 59-yard completion to Christian Watson and a subsequent 12-yard touchdown pass to Tucker Kraft. Love finished with 206 passing yards and one touchdown.
Surprising Moments:
- Matt LaFleur’s Outburst: Packers coach Matt LaFleur was seen engaging in a heated exchange with a Lions fan before the game, highlighting the intense atmosphere.
Despite the loss, the Packers remain in the playoff hunt, needing strong performances in the final weeks of the season.
