Last night\u2019s 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. \u00a0At least not yet. \u00a0<\/p>\r\n
Heading into the game, the prevailing sentiment was that these two teams were evenly matched. Both Sam Darnold<\/a> and Jared Goff are enjoying career-best seasons. \u00a0Goff has been sensational for the Lions, leading this team as an MVP-caliber talent<\/a>. 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<\/a>, NFL journeyman Darnold is experiencing a career renaissance this season, posting 4,319 yards with 35 touchdowns.<\/p>\r\n The game was expected to be a high-scoring battle featuring two of the NFL\u2019s top offenses and the over\/under at 56.5 points.\u00a0But 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. \u00a0The Lions were in control of their destiny and this team would not be denied. \u00a0<\/p>\r\n Last night’s win is a testament to the plan\u00a0Brad Holmes<\/a> and Dan Campbell<\/a> put in place four years ago to completely overhaul an organization that was a perennial NFL dungeon dweller. They created a winning culture<\/a> that is disciplined, well-coached, and unified with one common goal; winning the championship. \u00a0<\/p>\r\n Despite the predictions about which offense would prevail, this game was all about the defense. \u00a0Aaron Glenn’s<\/a> 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. \u00a0Minnesota’s only points came off three Will Reichard field goals. \u00a0<\/p>\r\n 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,\u00a0Za’Darius Smith<\/a> 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.<\/p>\r\nLions Defense Dominant In Victory<\/h3>\r\n
The Offense Set Another Franchise Record\u00a0<\/h3>\r\n