The Detroit Lions' recent win over the Jacksonville Jaguars was a statement performance, as they dominated from start to finish, securing their best record since 1934. This victory pushed the Lions to an impressive 10-1 record, a mark that signifies their transformation into one of the NFL's top teams under head coach Dan Campbell. With the 52-6 win, Detroit has now secured its best start since the Lions' 10-1 record has brought new hope to their passionate fanbase, with playoff aspirations squarely in their sights. They’re in prime position to make the postseason and potentially secure a top seed in the NFC and the #1 team to beat in the NFL.
Offense
What a turnaround for Jared Goff in this game. He looked like the beatdown Jon Jones gave Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 on Saturday. Coming off 5 interceptions in the Lions' last game against the Houston Texans, many outlets were wondering how Jared Goff would come into this game. Goff made a statement this game, throwing for a whopping 412 yards and 4 touchdowns on 24/29 attempts. On top of that, Amon Ra St. Brown had two receiving touchdowns, also breaking a franchise record for one touchdown through eight straight games; Jameson Williams picked up one, and Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery had one and two on the ground, respectfully. Even Brock Wright had a touchdown in this game. At the beginning of the fourth quarter, Goff was swapped for Hendon Hooker, something I predicted would happen if the Lions were up in points by a considerable margin. Overall, it was an excellent comeback performance for Jared Goff, and hopefully, he can continue this surge.
Player of the Game: Jared Goff
Defense
The Lions defense had a day as well. The defense held Mac Jones to only 138 yards through the air, no touchdowns, and an interception. Zadarius Smith picked up his first sack in his first game as a Lion, meeting expectations for the loss of Aidan Hutchinson. Kirby Joseph came up with the pick against Mac Jones, and Brian Branch had a bone-rattling tackle on the Jaguars. The defense held the receivers to less than 100 yards each and the running backs to less than 100 yards on the ground in total. Just a complete clinic for the defense, one that left a statement that said this defensive wall will not break and will not go down easy.
Player of the Game: Brian Branch
What's Next
The Lions travel just south to Indiana for a matchup against the Colts. The Colts are coming off a thrilling win against the Jets, but they now face an opponent who is steamrolling through every team they face. This should be an easy win for the Lions. We might even see Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson tap the helmet again mid-game.
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