The Detroit Lions made history on Sunday when they broke a nine-game playoff losing streak to edge the Los Angeles Rams 24-23 during Super Wild Card Weekend. This win reminded old-timers, who had been frustrated with their Lions team’s lack of success for so many years, of the good old days of 1991. It’s been just that long – 32 years in total. That’s a long time, and most of the players on the current Lions’ roster were not even born when that season ended.
It was the Lions’ first playoff win in over three decades. To pull off the win, the Lions had a scorching start when quarterback Jared Goff led his team on a 75-yard touchdown drive. Goff, who was facing his former team, was remarkably efficient on the day. He completed 22 of 27 passes for 277 yards and a touchdown. His favorite receiver was Amon-Ra St. Brown, who caught seven passes for 110 yards.
Related: Brad Allen’s Brutal Crew Raises Doubts About NFL Officiating
The Playoff Game Flip-Flopped After the First Half
Although the first half was a high-scoring duel, the second half was a complete flip-flop. Both teams struggled to score. Detroit’s defense stepped up to play a crucial role in the win by holding the Rams to field goals on red zone trips to preserve their lead. Aidan Hutchinson’s pressure on Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford in the third quarter proved pivotal.
The red zone struggles for the Rams, with three trips resulting in no touchdowns, were huge reasons for their loss. The turning point came at the beginning of the second half when the Lions’ defense forced a key punt. The Lions’ following offensive drive resulted in a field goal. Those three points ultimately led to their one-point victory.
Rams Wide Receiver Puka Nacua Set a Rookie Record for Most Receiving Yards
Although his Rams team didn’t win, wide receiver Puka Nacua had a remarkable day (and a remarkable season). He set a new rookie record for the most receiving yards in a playoff game with 181 yards.
The Lions took full advantage of the chance to party after their rare playoff game and an even rarer playoff win. After the game, they celebrated their historic win. They now await the winner of the Monday night game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers to see who they will face in the divisional round.
That game is scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 21, at 3 p.m. ET at Ford Field.
Related: Mike Vrabel Fired in Surprising Tennessee Titans Shake-Up
