The Detroit Lions closed out their season in historic style, defeating the Minnesota Vikings on “Sunday Night Football” to clinch their second straight NFC North divisional title.
The victory also secured the Lions the No. 1 overall seed in the NFC for the first time in franchise history, giving them a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
A key contributor in Detroit’s dominant 31-9 win, which brought their record to 15-2, was running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who scored all four of the team’s touchdowns in the game.
With that performance, Gibbs finished the season with 20 total touchdowns, earning him the title of 2024 NFL touchdown king, a distinction announced by both the Lions and the league.
The Lions marked the occasion with a simple two-word message: “King’s Landing,” a playful nod to Gibbs’ consistent ability to find the end zone all season.
Throughout the year, Gibbs and David Montgomery formed a dynamic backfield duo until Montgomery’s injury. Both running backs surpassed 1,000 scrimmage yards during the season, showcasing their effectiveness.
On Tuesday, the Lions received more good news when it was confirmed that Montgomery, who suffered an injury a few weeks ago against the Buffalo Bills, is expected to return for the divisional round following Detroit’s bye week. His return will bolster an already explosive offense.
In his second NFL season, Gibbs rushed 250 times for 1,412 yards and 16 rushing touchdowns, while adding 52 receptions for 517 yards and four receiving touchdowns.
As one of the league’s brightest young offensive stars, the hope in Detroit is that Gibbs can carry his stellar play into the postseason, with the ultimate goal of bringing a Super Bowl championship to the Motor City.
