The Detroit Lions handled business under the bright lights at Ford Field on Sunday night, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 31-9 and locking up home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Detroit’s defense stole the spotlight, pressuring Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold into a rough outing. Darnold completed fewer than 50 percent of his passes, finishing with under 200 yards through the air.
On the other side of the ball, Lions quarterback Jared Goff continued his stellar season, achieving a milestone previously only held by legendary quarterback Tom Brady. According to the Detroit Lions’ PR account on X:
“@Lions QB @JaredGoff16 produced his 9th game of the season with a completion percentage of 75.0%, passing Tom Brady (8 in 2007) for most in a season in @NFL history. #OnePride.”
Despite the milestone, Goff didn’t have his sharpest night. He completed 27-of-33 passes for 231 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. However, his resilience against the Vikings’ pass rush and his ability to deliver in clutch moments proved pivotal in Detroit’s victory.
The real star of the night was running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who exploded for four touchdowns, including one receiving score, as the Lions clinched their second consecutive NFC North title.
Looking ahead, the Lions will face the winner of the Rams-Vikings first-round game in the NFC Divisional Round after enjoying their first bye week since October. A trip to the NFC Championship Game will be at stake.
