Lions quarterback Jared Goff throws the ball during the NFC Wild Card Game versus the Rams on January 14, 2024. Photo by Eric Seals via Detroit Free Press
With legendary rapper Eminem in attendance, his Detroit Lions held on to beat the Rams.
The Lions etched out a narrow 24-23 victory at home against Los Angeles, in the midst of a truly wild NFL Wild Card Weekend. This victory marked Detroit’s first playoff win in 32 years, and their first ever at Ford Field. It was their first home playoff win in general since 1992, and only their third playoff win since 1957.
Stafford’s Return
What could potentially be the craziest facet of the game, was that the Lions achieved the victory against Matthew Stafford. Stafford was notably the Lions’ quarterback for many years, before being traded to the Rams in 2021. He did manage to win a Super Bowl in L.A., but now, facing his former team as a foe, was outdueled by Jared Goff.
“It was pretty unbelievable,” Goff said after the game. “The people here are pretty special, man. I’m grateful for their support and today with the circumstances that were there it meant a lot and it was special.”
Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson notched two sacks and four hits on Stafford, while Goff was phenomenal himself. He finished the game with 277 passing yards, going 22-for-27 with a touchdown. He averaged 5.3 air yards per attempt and was 9-for-9 through his first two drives.
L.A. Buffs
It wasn’t all bad for Los Angeles, but it certainly wasn’t good enough. Puka Nacua continues to shine, as he ran for 181 yards, and had nine catches including a touchdown. Stafford, meanwhile, threw for 367 yards and successfully completed 25 of 36 passes. However, the Rams did not record a touchdown in the red zone, and never led in the game.
“I thought he played top-notch football,” Lions coach Dan Campbell said of Goff. “He probably had two errors and everything else was on point. He looked loose; he looked relaxed. I thought he threw the ball with conviction. Was strong in the pocket. Got us in the right play and he felt that way all week.”
“I’m so proud of this football team,” Rams coach Sean McVay said, despite the loss. “And the finality of it is still kind of … it doesn’t totally resonate. But man did I learn a lot and really appreciate this group. They helped me find my way again and how much I love this and love the people that I’m around.”
What’s Next?
Not only has Detroit won their first home playoff game in over thirty years, but they will host another one next week. Since the Dallas Cowboys completely and embarrassingly collapsed at home to the Green Bay Packers last night, losing 48-32, it means that Detroit will now host the winner of Eagles/Buccaneers next week. That game will be played tonight in Tampa.
