Lions stun 49ers with Jared Goff's three touchdowns in shocking defeat
- Jared Goff led the Lions with three touchdown passes, completing 26 of 34 attempts for 303 yards.
- The victory against the 49ers was crucial for Detroit as it extended their franchise record for wins in a season to 14.
- The Lions are set to face the Minnesota Vikings in their upcoming regular season finale with the NFC North title on the line.
In a highly anticipated matchup held on December 31, 2024, the Detroit Lions triumphed over the San Francisco 49ers, winning 40-34. This match marked a significant rematch of last season's NFC title game, where the 49ers had previously secured the victory. Jared Goff showcased his skills as he completed 26 of 34 passes for 303 yards and threw three touchdown passes, a performance that not only helped the Lions avenge last season's loss but also extended their franchise record for wins in a single season to 14. The game saw a fierce back-and-forth battle between the two quarterbacks, with Goff outdueling San Francisco's Brock Purdy, who also threw three touchdowns but had the disadvantage of two interceptions. This was a highly competitive encounter characterized by explosive offensive plays, as both teams scored on their opening possessions. The Lions, who had been trailing, capitalized on a pivotal interception made by Kerby Joseph late in the third quarter, allowing Goff to throw a touchdown pass to Amon-Ra St. Brown to take a lead of 31-28. As the game progressed, the Lions managed to maintain their narrow lead with an impressive 30-yard touchdown run by Jahmyr Gibbs, easing any tension for Detroit fans as it inflated their lead further. With two minutes remaining, Purdy attempted to rally his team back, but the missed opportunities on field goals, including a failed 58-yard kick by Jake Moody, greatly hampered San Francisco's chances of equalizing the score. The missed extra point following a late 49ers touchdown left them standing at a disadvantage. This win sets up a critical matchup for the Lions against the Minnesota Vikings in the final game of the regular season, where the NFC North title will be at stake. If Detroit and Minnesota tie in their upcoming game, the Lions would now possess the unwieldy advantage of holding the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs. This triumph not only propelled Detroit's confidence but also came at a symbolic time, as they were keen on securing their first road win against San Francisco since 1975.