Detroit Lions
Detriot Lions Clinch play-off spot with last second field goal against Packers to extend winning record
Detriot Lions Clinch play-off spot with last second field goal against Packers to extend winning record
Jake Bates’ last-second 35-yard field goal helped the Detroit Lions clinch a playoff spot with a 34-31 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night.
The Lions (12-1) broke a franchise record with their 11th straight win – including two over the Packers (9-4) – to stay ahead of Minnesota (10-2) in the highly-competitive NFC North.
Jared Goff passed for 283 yards and three touchdowns (two to Tim Patrick), while David Montgomery had 84 combined yards rushing and receiving and scored a touchdown.
“This will be one of those you’ll never forget,” Detroit coach Dan Campbell said, whose side went for it on fourth down five times, including with one yard to go at the Green Bay 21 with 43 seconds left.
Montgomery ran for 7 yards, barely getting a handoff from Goff after the quarterback got his feet tangled up.
That ensured the Lions could try a field goal without giving the Packers the ball back, and Bates nailed his third-game winning kick this season.
“I just felt like we needed to end it on offense,” Campbell said. “I did not want to give the ball back and I believed we could convert. I trust the O-line. I trust David.”
Detroit scored on their first possession of the game, with Montgomery finishing off the 11-play, 70-yard march with a three-yard scoring run.
Jordan Love’s second completion of the game was fumbled by Christian Watson on the first play of the second quarter.
The Lions recovered the ball at their own 46-yard line and turned the giveaway into three points, as Bates kicked a 43-yard field goal. Jacobs’ one-yard scoring run with 5:35 left in the half put the Packers on the board.
However, the Lions re-established the lead in the closing seconds of the half on fourth-and-goal. Goff hit running back Jahmyr Gibbs over the middle on a two-yard pass to complete the 70-yard drive.
Love’s 59-yard completion to Watson during the opening possession of the second half set up his 12-yard scoring pass to tight end Tucker Kraft. That cut Detroit’s lead to 17-14.
Keisean Nixon picked off a Goff pass moments later, giving the Packers the ball at the Lions’ 16-yard line. Green Bay took the lead on Jacobs’ six-yard run with 11:15 remaining in the quarter.
Goff and the Lions responded with a 13-play drive. Goff found Patrick on fourth-and-goal from the three-yard line, providing Detroit with a 24-21 lead.
After forcing a punt, Detroit gambled on fourth-and-1 from their own 31 but it backfired as Gibbs was thrown for a loss. Jacobs scored from four yards out in the opening minute of the fourth quarter as the Packers regained the lead.
The Lions roared right back with a 10-play drive, completed by Goff’s one-yard pass to Patrick with 8:39 to play. The Packers tied it at 31-apiece with 3:38 left on Brandon McManus’ 32-yard field goal.
Detroit ran out the clock on its ensuing possession. A 16-yard pass from Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown and Montgomery’s seven-yard run on fourth down – with Goff falling to the ground as he handed the ball off – with less than a minute left put Bates in position to make the game-winning kick.
Detroit Lions
SAD REPORT: Lions Fear They Have Lost Two More Defenders to ‘Season-Ending’ Injuries Following Loss…
SAD REPORT: Lions Fear They Have Lost Two More Defenders to ‘Season-Ending’ Injuries Following Loss…
Lions Fear They Have Lost Two More Defenders to ‘Season-Ending’ Injuries Following Loss…
The Detroit Lions are facing a major setback following their tough loss this past weekend, as they fear they may have lost two more defenders to season-ending injuries. This marks a worrying trend for a defence that had already been struggling with injuries throughout the season. Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed that both players are likely out for the rest of the year, adding to the growing list of key defensive personnel sidelined.
The first of the two players, a standout linebacker, suffered what appeared to be a serious knee injury during the game. Despite initially trying to return to action, it was clear that the injury would be too much to overcome. Early tests suggest a torn ACL, a devastating blow that will require surgery and extensive rehabilitation. This injury leaves a significant gap in the Lions’ linebacker corps, as the player had been a leader on the field, not only contributing in run defence but also serving as a key part of the defensive playcalling.
The second defender, a cornerback, also went down with what appeared to be a lower-leg injury. Although the initial diagnosis is still pending, the team is fearing a torn Achilles tendon, an injury that typically requires surgery and a lengthy recovery. This loss will be especially difficult for the Lions, as the cornerback had been one of their most reliable options in coverage. His ability to shut down top wide receivers had made him a cornerstone of the defensive scheme.
These injuries come at a time when the Lions were hoping to make a strong playoff push. With their defence already depleted by previous injuries, losing two more key players could significantly impact their ability to compete. The Lions’ front office will now have to assess their options, including potentially making moves in the trade market or activating players from the practice squad. While the team has depth in certain areas, these losses could be too much to overcome, putting additional pressure on their offense to carry the load for the remainder of the season.
Detroit Lions
Detroit Lions
Revealed: Three Reasons Why Bills Will Lose to the Detroit Lions…
Revealed: Three Reasons Why Bills Will Lose to the Detroit Lions…
As the Buffalo Bills prepare to face the surging Detroit Lions, one analyst has broken down three key reasons why the Bills could struggle to secure a win in this critical matchup. Despite their reputation as one of the NFL’s top teams, the Bills face significant challenges against a Lions team that has been firing on all cylinders.
1. The Lions’ Explosive Offense
The Detroit Lions boast one of the league’s most balanced and high-powered offenses. Led by quarterback Jared Goff and a dynamic receiving corps, the Lions have proven they can score against even the toughest defenses. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs adds another layer of complexity with his ability to break tackles and contribute in the passing game. The Bills’ defense, already dealing with key injuries, could find it challenging to contain this multi-dimensional attack.
2. Inconsistent Play from the Bills’ Offense
While Josh Allen is one of the league’s most electrifying quarterbacks, the Bills’ offense has been plagued by inconsistency this season. Turnovers, stalled drives, and a lack of balance between the run and pass game have put added pressure on Allen to carry the team. If the Bills fail to establish a rhythm early or turn the ball over, the Lions are well-equipped to capitalize and control the game.
3. The Lions’ Dominant Defensive Front
Detroit’s defensive front, anchored by Aidan Hutchinson, has become a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Their ability to pressure the pocket and stop the run could force the Bills into unfavorable situations. If Buffalo’s offensive line can’t hold up against Detroit’s aggressive pass rush, it could be a long night for Allen and his receivers.
With the Lions riding a wave of momentum and the Bills battling to maintain consistency, this matchup is shaping up to be a tough test for Buffalo. The Bills will need to address these issues if they hope to fend off a determined Detroit team hungry to prove themselves as playoff contenders.
Detroit Lions
GOOD NEWS: Contract done and sealed… Placekicker Jake Bates signs a new contract with the Detroit Lions until 2028. Wonderful news every…
GOOD NEWS: Contract done and sealed… Placekicker Jake Bates signs a new contract with the Detroit Lions until 2028. Wonderful news every…
In fantastic news for Detroit Lions fans, placekicker Jake Bates has just signed a new contract that will keep him with the team until 2028. This is a big win for both Bates and the Lions, as it solidifies a key position on the roster for years to come.
Bates, known for his consistency and powerful leg, has been a standout in special teams. His ability to execute under pressure has made him one of the most reliable kickers in the league. His performance over the past seasons has proven that he is not only talented but also a trusted asset for the Lions’ playoff aspirations.
With the deal in place, the Lions are securing a crucial part of their special teams unit. Bates’ accuracy, range, and experience will be vital as the team continues to build towards a championship-caliber squad. Having a reliable kicker is essential for any NFL team, and Bates has shown time and again that he can deliver when the game is on the line.
This new contract also signals the Lions’ long-term commitment to building a strong foundation. The front office is clearly focused on maintaining stability in key positions, and Bates’ extension reflects their confidence in his ability to perform at the highest level for years to come.
Fans are excited to see Bates continue to kick for the Lions, knowing that they now have one of the NFL’s most reliable placekickers locked down for the foreseeable future. This contract extension is a big step forward for the team as they look to make a run for the playoffs and beyond.
- Las Vegas Raiders5 days ago
“Maxx Crosby Honored with NFL Man of the Year Award, worth $250,0000 Thanks to Las Vegas Raiders Fans’ Support
- NFL4 days ago
DEAL ACCEPTED: New Orleans Saints Pull Blockbuster Deal to Land Star Quarterback Jared Goff from Detroit Lions, Bolstering Offensive Arsenal for Next Season.
- Las Vegas Raiders7 days ago
“It is a choice. Yeah, of course, it sucks but I am going…..”Raiders’ Maxx Crosby sends strong warning message as he takes Final Decision About his Future at the Franchise
- NFL3 days ago
Emotional: “Words can’t express how grateful I am for the Saints fan base ” Taysom Hill Sends heartfelt message to saints fans following
- Las Vegas Raiders3 days ago
Raiders will be the Likeliest Destinations for Free Agent crop QB to replace Aidan O’Connell
- NFL6 days ago
“This referee is saying ‘Oh yeah that’s a flag, I got it,’” Former NFL coach claims Saints got away with foul on game-winning FG block vs Giants
- NFL7 days ago
BREAKING: Saints Assistant Coach Grantham Reportedly Leaving the team following…….
- NFL5 days ago
“I would not be shocked if he comes in and overhauls a lot of areas.” Tom Brady’s expected effect on the Raiders after Owners’ Meeting