Lions Outlast Packers in Thrilling 45-38 Victory, Sweep Season Series
Detroit, MI — The Detroit Lions secured a hard-fought 45-38 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, completing a season sweep against their divisional rivals in an electrifying contest. Fans at Ford Field were treated to a showcase of offensive firepower and timely defensive stands, with Head Coach Eddie Todd praising his team’s resilience and execution.
“Green Bay is a tough team, and every game against them feels like a playoff battle,” Coach Todd said postgame. “We knew they would come in hungry after our first meeting, but our guys stuck together, executed when it mattered, and showed what Lions football is all about. Sweeping the Packers is no small feat, and I’m proud of the effort from everyone on the roster.”
Goff’s Heroic Performance
Quarterback Jared Goff delivered one of the finest performances of his career, carving up the Packers’ secondary with surgical precision. Goff completed 23 of 31 passes for an astonishing 415 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception, finishing with a 74% completion rate. His connection with the Lions’ dynamic receiving corps kept the Packers’ defense on their heels throughout the game.
“When you have guys like Jameson [Williams], Amon-Ra [St. Brown], and Sam [LaPorta], it makes my job a lot easier,” Goff said. “The offensive line gave me great protection, and our playmakers did the rest. This was a team win, and we’re building something special here in Detroit.”
Williams’s Breakout Game
Wide receiver Jameson Williams had a career day, hauling in six receptions for 203 yards and two touchdowns. His blend of speed and route-running created mismatches all game long, including a jaw-dropping 72-yard touchdown in the second quarter that shifted momentum back to the Lions.
“We’ve been working hard in practice to get on the same page,” Williams said of his connection with Goff. “Today, it just all clicked. This is just the beginning. We know we can take this offense to an even higher level.”
St. Brown and LaPorta Shine
Amon-Ra St. Brown continued to showcase his reliability and versatility, catching seven passes for 117 yards, often making crucial grabs to extend drives. tight end Sam LaPorta also contributed significantly, catching four passes, including a 12-yard touchdown that capped a pivotal third-quarter drive.
“These guys are relentless,” Coach Todd said of his pass-catchers. “They’re always finding ways to get open and make plays, and they’re a big reason why Jared was able to put up those numbers.”
Ground Game Struggles, But Gibbs Makes Impact
While the passing attack soared, rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs faced a tough challenge on the ground, rushing for 71 yards on 21 attempts. Despite his struggles between the tackles, Gibbs made his presence felt in the passing game, catching five passes for 47 yards and a touchdown.
“It wasn’t the easiest day running the ball, but I just kept grinding,” Gibbs said. “Coach always tells us to find a way to contribute, and I’m glad I could help in the passing game. We’re always looking to improve, and I’ll be better next week.”
Defense Steps Up When It Counts
Defensively, the Lions had their hands full containing the Packers’ high-powered offense but made critical plays at crucial moments. Safety Brian Branch was everywhere, recording 11 tackles and setting the tone with his physicality. cornerback Rakestraw Jr. made his mark with two interceptions, including a game-sealing pick late in the fourth quarter.
“It’s about staying focused and being in the right place at the right time,” Rakestraw Jr. said. “We know our offense is going to put up points, so as a defense, it’s our job to give them the ball back. Today, we did that.”
Branch echoed the sentiment: “Every week, we talk about making the plays that decide games. It’s a team effort, and today, we made enough of them to come out on top.”
