In a stunning turn of events, quarterback Jared Goff led the Detroit Lions to a 31-23 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the divisional round, securing the Lions’ spot in the NFC championship for the first time in 32 years and only the second time in franchise history. Goff, who was traded by the Los Angeles Rams three years ago in exchange for Matthew Stafford, has become a fan favorite in Detroit and showcased his worth by throwing his second touchdown pass with 6:22 left in the game.
THE HUNT CONTINUES pic.twitter.com/UhHmHlu9Y7
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) January 21, 2024
Jared Goff and Jahmyr Gibbs inspire win for the Detroit Lions
Goff’s performance, particularly in the fourth quarter, earned praise from head coach Dan Campbell, who affirmed last week that Goff was indeed good enough for the Detroit Lions. The Lions’ victory marked their first time winning two playoff games in a season since 1957. Goff finished the game 30 of 43 for 287 yards and directed a highly efficient second-half offense, leading the Lions to long touchdown drives on three consecutive possessions.
Dan Campbell gives out the match balls to Brad Holmes and Jared Goff:
"You're good enough for Detroit, Jared Goff"
This team💪💙#OnePride pic.twitter.com/tyTkmuLcWk
— One Pride (@OnePride_app) January 15, 2024
Running back Jahmyr Gibbs played a crucial role, scoring a tie-breaking 31-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter, while Goff extended the lead with a 9-yard touchdown pass to Amon-Ra St. Brown. Detroit Lions now face the challenge of traveling to San Francisco to take on the NFC’s top seed for a chance to advance to the Super Bowl—a stage the franchise has never reached.
Eminem shows up to support the Detroit Lions; Fans are overjoyed with the Lions victory
Popular American rapper Eminem, a vocal Detroit Lions supporter has shown his support for the franchise. Eminem was in attendance and he left no stone unturned to express his love for Detroit.
.@Eminem had Detroit BUZZING. 🔊 pic.twitter.com/8V91hXxU0I
— Sunday Night Football on NBC (@SNFonNBC) January 21, 2024
The Lions’ journey to the NFC title game has captivated fans and demonstrated the resilience and determination of a team that has overcome adversity to reach new heights in the postseason. The Lions experienced the loudest cheers from the crowd in the stadium. Fans, who could not attend the game, also showed support on the streets.
Y'all ever heard a roof pop off a building?@derrickbarnes21 | #AllGrit pic.twitter.com/KSFvFxKBH9
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) January 21, 2024
Downtown Detroit is going NUTS right now after the Detroit Lions advance to the NFC Championship game 🤯 pic.twitter.com/9z7i7oOf8U
— Woodward Sports Network (@woodwardsports) January 21, 2024
The Lions’ success this season, under the leadership of Goff and Campbell, has revived hope for a franchise that has endured a long playoff drought. The NFC North champions now look forward to the NFC championship game, hoping to make a better showing than their previous appearance in 1992, where they suffered a 41-10 defeat at the hands of Washington.
Read more: Brock Purdy Steers San Francisco 49ers To the NFC Title Game Victory with Excellent Drive
