2023 Detroit Lions season explained

Team:Detroit Lions
Year:2023
Record:12–5
Division Place:1st NFC North
Off Coach:Ben Johnson
Def Coach:Aaron Glenn
General Manager:Brad Holmes
Owner:Sheila Ford Hamp
Stadium:Ford Field
Playoffs:Won Wild Card Playoffs
(vs. Rams) 24–23
Won Divisional Playoffs
(vs. Buccaneers) 31–23
Lost NFC Championship
(at 49ers) 31–34
Uniform:File:Detroit Lions Uniforms 2023.png
Shortnavlink:Lions seasons
Radio:Detroit Lions Radio Network

The 2023 season was the Detroit Lions' 94th season in the National Football League (NFL), their 90th In Detroit, and their third under the head coach/general manager tandem of Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes.

The Lions improved upon their 9–8 record from the previous season, after a Week 15 win against the Denver Broncos gave them their first 10-win season since 2014. The Lions finished the regular season with a 12–5 record, tying a franchise record for wins and ending up in a three-way tie with the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys for the best record in the NFC. Their .706 winning percentage was their best since 1991.

After a win against the Chicago Bears in Week 11, the Lions started 8–2 for the first time since 1962.[1] After a Week 16 win against the Minnesota Vikings, the Lions won their first division title since 1993, and their first ever as a member of the NFC North following the NFL's division realignment in 2002.[2] This also marks their first playoff appearance since 2016. The win assured them their first home playoff game since 1993 and only their third since winning their last NFL title in 1957.

However, they were seeded third for the NFC playoffs, having lost the conference record tiebreaker to both the 49ers and Cowboys and the head-to-head record to the Cowboys. In their first playoff game at Ford Field, the Lions defeated their former quarterback Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams 24–23 in the Wild Card game for their first playoff victory since the 1991 season, ending the longest winless post-season drought in the NFL.[3] The Lions hosted the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Divisional Round, which marked the first time the Lions hosted two playoff games in the same season in franchise history. The Lions defeated the Buccaneers 31–23 to advance to the NFC Championship for the first time since the 1991 season. However, they yielded a 24–7 lead and lost in the NFC Championship Game to the San Francisco 49ers 34–31.[4]

Player movements

Free agents

PositionPlayerFree agency
tag		Date signed2023 teamSource
LB UFA March 15 Detroit Lions [5]
K UFA March 20 Detroit Lions [6]
LB UFA March 22 New England Patriots [7]
G UFA April 3 Seattle Seahawks [8]
DE UFA March 23 San Francisco 49ers [9]
DT UFA March 13 Detroit Lions [10]
WR UFA March 24 Carolina Panthers [11]
DE UFA March 15 Detroit Lions [12]
LS ERFA March 22 Detroit Lions [13]
S UFA March 17 Miami Dolphins [14]
S UFA March 16 Detroit Lions [15]
RB UFA July 22 Detroit Lions [16]
CB UFA March 20 Atlanta Falcons [17]
DT ERFA April 26 Detroit Lions [18]
G ERFA August 2 New Orleans Saints [19]
S UFA March 20 Detroit Lions [20]
OT RFA March 14 Detroit Lions [21]
CB UFA March 23 New York Giants [22]
C RFA March 8 Detroit Lions [23]
LB ERFA March 13 Detroit Lions [24]
CB RFA June 5 Arizona Cardinals [25]
RB ERFA March 13 Detroit Lions [26]
G RFA August 1 Indianapolis Colts [27]
QB UFA March 24 Detroit Lions [28]
RB UFA March 17 New Orleans Saints [29]
LB UFA March 23 Arizona Cardinals [30]
TE ERFA March 13 Detroit Lions [31]
TE ERFA March 13 Detroit Lions

Additions

PositionPlayerPrevious teamDateSource
S March 20 [32]
G March 20 [33]
WR April 5 [34]
CB February 23 [35]
LS March 20 [36]
RB March 16 [37]
CB March 16 [38]
LB March 27 [39]
CB March 16 [40]
TE N/A May 4

Releases

PositionPlayer2023 teamRelease dateSource
DT February 24 [41]
CB Atlanta Falcons April 11 [42]
WR Quintez CephusApril 21 [43]
S April 21
RB Philadelphia Eagles April 29 [44]
G Chicago Bears August 10 [45]
WRMarvin Jones Jr.October 24[46]

Draft

See main article: 2023 NFL draft.

2023 Detroit Lions Draft
Round Selection Player Position College Notes Source
12[47]
18Jack Campbell[48]
2 34[49]
45[50]
368[51]
96[52]
5152 [53]
7219[54]
2023 Detroit Lions undrafted free agents
NamePositionCollegeRef.
Brad CecilCSouth Florida[55]
Chase CotaWROregon
Isaac DarkangeloLBIllinois
Dylan DrummondWREastern Michigan
Cory DurdenDTNC State
Connor GalvinOTBaylor
Steven Gilmore Jr.CBMarshall
Mohamed IbrahimRBMinnesota
Brandon JosephSNotre Dame
Adrian MartinezQBKansas State
Zach MortonDEAkron
Trevor NowaskeLBSaginaw Valley State
Chris SmithDTNotre Dame
Ryan SwobodaOTUCF
Starling Thomas VCBUAB
Keytaon ThompsonWRVirginia

Preseason

WeekDateOpponentResultRecordVenueRecap
1New York GiantsW 21–161–0Ford FieldRecap
2Jacksonville JaguarsL 7–251–1Ford FieldRecap
3at Carolina PanthersW 26–172–1Bank of America StadiumRecap

Regular season

Schedule

WeekDateOpponentResultRecordVenueRecap
1September 7at Kansas City ChiefsW 21–201–0Arrowhead StadiumRecap
2September 17Seattle SeahawksL 31–37 1–1Ford FieldRecap
3September 24Atlanta FalconsW 20–62–1Ford FieldRecap
4at Green Bay PackersW 34–203–1Lambeau FieldRecap
5October 8Carolina PanthersW 42–244–1Ford FieldRecap
6October 15at Tampa Bay BuccaneersW 20–65–1Raymond James StadiumRecap
7October 22at Baltimore RavensL 6–385–2M&T Bank StadiumRecap
8Las Vegas RaidersW 26–146–2Ford FieldRecap
9Bye
10November 12at Los Angeles ChargersW 41–387–2SoFi StadiumRecap
11November 19Chicago BearsW 31–268–2Ford FieldRecap
12November 23Green Bay PackersL 22–298–3Ford FieldRecap
13December 3at New Orleans SaintsW 33–289–3Caesars SuperdomeRecap
14December 10at Chicago BearsL 13–289–4Soldier FieldRecap
15Denver BroncosW 42–1710–4Ford FieldRecap
16December 24at Minnesota VikingsW 30–2411–4U.S. Bank StadiumRecap
17at Dallas CowboysL 19–2011–5AT&T StadiumRecap
18January 7Minnesota VikingsW 30–2012–5Ford FieldRecap
Note: Intra-division opponents are in bold text.

Game summaries

Week 1: at Kansas City Chiefs

To open the regular season, the Lions visited the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs in the annual NFL Kickoff Game. The Lions took advantage of the Chiefs not having Travis Kelce, their star tight end, due to a knee injury sustained in their practice just two days prior to this game. The Lions started off hot, scoring in the first quarter after a nine-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown. The Chiefs scored 14 points in the second quarter via a one-yard touchdown pass from Patrick Mahomes to Rashee Rice and a four-yard touchdown pass from Mahomes to Blake Bell, which made the score 14–7 in favor of Kansas City at half-time. The Lions responded with a 50-yard interception return by Brian Branch in the third quarter to tie the game. The Chiefs regained the lead during a 35-yard field goal by Harrison Butker, and scored again in the fourth quarter when Butker hit 39-yard field goal. The Lions scored the final points of the gamee, an eight-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery, making the final score 21–20 in favor of Detroit. With the upset win, the Lions started the season 1–0 for the first time since 2017. They also won their first game at Arrowhead Stadium since 1988, which, coincidentally, was also won by a mere point.

Week 2: vs. Seattle Seahawks

In week 2, for their home opener, the Lions hosted the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks opened the scoring in the first quarter on a Kenneth Walker III run. The Lions responded with a 22-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Josh Reynolds to tie the game 7-7. The Lions scored the only points of the second quarter during a 36-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Kalif Raymond, which made the score 14–7 in favor of Detroit at halftime. The Seahawks scored 10 points in the third quarter, a three-yard touchdown run from Walker III, and a 25-yard field goal by Jason Myers. The Lions answered with a four-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery to regain the lead 21–7. The Seahawks came back into the fourth quarter via a three-yard touchdown pass from Geno Smith to Tyler Lockett and a 40-yard interception return by Tre Brown. The Lions replied with a four-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Reynolds and a 38-yard field goal by Riley Patterson as time expired in the game to force overtime 31-31. During overtime, the Seahawks scored a six-yard touchdown pass from Smith to Lockett, making the final score 37–31 in favor of Seattle. With the loss, the Lions fell to 1–1. They once again failed to beat the Seahawks, not having done so since 2012.

Week 3: vs. Atlanta Falcons

In week 3, the Lions hosted the Atlanta Falcons. The Lions opened the scoring in the first quarter with a 37-yard field goal by Riley Patterson. The Falcons responded with a 48-yard field goal by Younghoe Koo in the second quarter to tie the game 3 to 3. The Lions scored 10 points in the quarter with a 45-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Sam LaPorta and a 24-yard field goal by Patterson, which made the score 13–3 in favor of Detroit at half-time. After a scoreless third quarter, the Lions extended their lead in the fourth quarter to 20–3 in a three-yard touchdown run from Goff. The Falcons had the final score of the game, a 24-yard field goal by Koo, making the final score 20–6 in favor of Detroit. With the win, the Lions improved to 2–1.

Week 4: at Green Bay Packers

In week 4, the Lions visited their divisional rival, the Green Bay Packers. The Packers opened the scoring in the first quarter via a 34-yard field goal by Anders Carlson. The Lions scored 14 points via a 34-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown and a three-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery. The Lions scored 13 points in the second quarter via a 33-yard field goal by Riley Patterson, a two-yard touchdown run from Montgomery and a 37-yard field goal by Patterson, which made the score 27–3 in favor of Detroit at half-time. The Packers scored the only points of the third quarter via a one-yard touchdown pass from Jordan Love to Christian Watson and a two-point conversion pass from Love to Jayden Reed. The teams exchanged touchdowns in the fourth quarter, first a nine-yard touchdown run from Love for the Packers, then a one-yard touchdown run from Montgomery for the Lions. The Packers scored the final points of the game via a 50-yard field goal by Carlson, making the final score 34–20 in favor of Detroit. With the win, the Lions improved to 3–1 and extended their winning streak against the Packers to four games.

Week 5: vs. Carolina Panthers

In week 5, the Lions hosted the Carolina Panthers. The Lions scored 14 points in the first quarter via a 42-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery and a four-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Sam LaPorta. In the second quarter, the Panthers responded with a one-yard touchdown pass from Bryce Young to Tommy Tremble. The Lions scored 14 points in the quarter via a one-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Josh Reynolds and a 31-yard touchdown pass from Goff to LaPorta. The Panthers scored the final points of the half via a 33-yard field goal by Eddy Piñeiro, which made the score 28–10 in favor of Detroit at half-time. After a scoreless third quarter, the Lions scored 14 points in the fourth quarter via a one-yard touchdown run from Goff and a five-yard touchdown run from Craig Reynolds. The Panthers scored 14 points in the quarter via an 18-yard touchdown pass from Young to D. J. Chark and a one-yard touchdown pass from Young to Adam Thielen, making the final score 42–24 in favor of Detroit. With the win, the Lions improved to 4–1, maintaining their spot at first place in the NFC North. This marked the first time they've won at least four of their first five games since 2011, and the fourth time in 50 seasons.[56]

Week 6: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

In week 6, the Lions visited the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Lions opened the scoring in the first quarter via a 30-yard field goal by Riley Patterson. The Buccaneers scored in the second quarter via a 33-yard field goal by Chase McLaughlin to tie the game. The Lions responded with a 27-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown, which made the score 10–3 in favor of Detroit at half-time. In the third quarter, the Buccaneers scored via a 36-yard field goal by McLaughlin. The Lions extended their lead via a 45-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Jameson Williams. The Lions scored the only points of the fourth quarter via a 36-yard field goal by Patterson, making the final score 20–6 in favor of Detroit. With the win, the Lions improved to 5–1, their first such start since 2011. They are on a 13–3 streak (dating back to last season) for the first time since the 1961–1962 seasons.[57]

Week 7: at Baltimore Ravens

In week 7, the Lions visited the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens scored 14 points in the first quarter via a seven-yard touchdown run from Lamar Jackson and a 12-yard touchdown pass from Jackson to Nelson Agholor. The Ravens scored 14 points in the second quarter via an 11-yard touchdown pass from Jackson to Mark Andrews and a two-yard touchdown run from Gus Edwards, which made the score 28–0 in favor of Baltimore at half-time. The Ravens extended their lead in the third quarter via an eight-yard touchdown pass from Jackson to Andrews. The Lions finally got on the board in the fourth quarter via a 21-yard touchdown run from Jahmyr Gibbs. The Ravens scored the final points of the game via a 32-yard field goal by Justin Tucker, making the final score 38–6 in favor of Baltimore. With the loss, the Lions fell to 5–2.

Week 8: vs. Las Vegas Raiders

In week 8, the Lions hosted the Las Vegas Raiders. The Lions opened the scoring in the first quarter via a 44-yard field goal by Riley Patterson. The Lions extended their lead in the second quarter via two field goals by Patterson from 31-yards, and 33-yards, respectively. The Raiders scored via a three-yard touchdown run from Josh Jacobs. The Lions scored the final points of the half via an 18-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Sam LaPorta, which made the score 16–7 in favor of Detroit at half-time. The teams exchanged touchdowns in the third quarter, first a 75-yard interception return by Marcus Peters for the Raiders, then a 27-yard touchdown run from Jahmyr Gibbs for the Lions. The Lions scored the only points of the fourth quarter via a 52-yard field goal by Patterson, making the final score 26–14 in favor of Detroit. With the win, the Lions headed into their bye week at 6–2 atop the NFC North.

Week 10: at Los Angeles Chargers

Following their bye week, in week 10, the Lions visited the Los Angeles Chargers. The Lions opened the scoring in the first quarter via a 33-yard field goal by Riley Patterson. The Chargers responded with a 48-yard field goal by Cameron Dicker to tie the game. The Lions regained the lead via a one-yard touchdown run from Jahmyr Gibbs. The Lions scored 14 points in the second quarter via a one-yard touchdown run from Gibbs and a 75-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery. Montgomery's 75-yard run was the longest touchdown run by a Lions player since an 88-yard touchdown run by Jahvid Best in 2011.[58] The Chargers scored 14 points in the quarter via a 29-yard touchdown pass from Justin Herbert to Keenan Allen and a two-yard touchdown run from Austin Ekeler, which made the score 24–17 in favor of Detroit at half-time. The teams exchanged touchdowns in the third quarter, first an 18-yard touchdown pass from Herbert to Jalen Guyton for the Chargers, then a 20-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown for the Lions. The teams exchanged touchdowns in the fourth quarter, first a one-yard touchdown pass from Herbert to Quentin Johnston for the Chargers, then a 25-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Brock Wright for the Lions. The Chargers responded with a 38-yard touchdown pass from Herbert to Allen to tie the game. The Lions scored the final points of the game via a 41-yard field goal by Patterson as time expired, making the final score 41–38 in favor of Detroit. With the win, the Lions improved to 7–2.

Week 11: vs. Chicago Bears

In week 11, the Lions hosted their divisional rival, the Chicago Bears. The Bears opened the scoring in the first quarter via a one-yard touchdown run from D'Onta Foreman. In the second quarter, the Lions tied the game via a two-yard touchdown run from Jahmyr Gibbs. The Bears responded with a 31-yard field goal by Cairo Santos to regain the lead. The Lions scored the final points of the half via a seven-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown, which made the score 14–10 in favor of Detroit at half-time. The Bears scored 10 points in the third quarter via a 53-yard field goal by Santos and a 39-yard touchdown pass from Justin Fields to D. J. Moore. The Bears extended their lead in the fourth quarter via two field goals by Santos from 40-yards, and 39-yards, respectively. The Lions responded with 17 unanswered points in the final three minutes of the quarter. They scored first via a 32-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Jameson Williams. After the defense forced Chicago into a three-and-out, the Lions scored again on a one-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery and a two-point conversion pass from Goff to Sam LaPorta. On the Bears' next possession, a fumble forced by Aidan Hutchinson led to a safety, making the final score 31–26 in favor of Detroit. Detroit won despite the fact that Chicago had a win probability of 98.8% (according to ESPN) with four minutes remaining in the game.[59] [60] With the win, the Lions improved to 8–2 on the season, their best record through the first ten games since 1962.[61]

Week 12: vs. Green Bay Packers

For their annual Thanksgiving Day game, the Lions hosted their divisional rival, the Green Bay Packers, in a rematch of week 4. The Packers scored 20 points in the first quarter via a 10-yard touchdown pass from Jordan Love to Jayden Reed, a nine-yard touchdown pass from Love to Tucker Kraft and a 27-yard fumble return by Jonathan Owens. The Lions scored six points in the quarter via a seven-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Sam LaPorta. The Packers scored the only points of the second quarter via a 43-yard field goal by Anders Carlson, which made the score 23–6 in favor of Green Bay at half-time. The teams exchanged touchdowns in the third quarter, first a six-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery and a two-point conversion run by Montgomery for the Lions, then a 16-yard touchdown pass from Love to Christian Watson. The Lions scored the only points of the fourth quarter with 41 seconds remaining in the game via a 12-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Josh Reynolds, and a two-point conversion pass from Goff to LaPorta, making the final score 29–22 in favor of Green Bay. With the upset loss, the Lions fell to 8–3.

Week 13: at New Orleans Saints

In week 13, the Lions visited the New Orleans Saints. The Lions scored 21 points in the first quarter via a two-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery, a 13-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Sam LaPorta and a 25-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown. The Saints got on the board in the second quarter via a six-yard touchdown pass from Derek Carr to Jimmy Graham. The Lions scored the final points of the half via a 26-yard field goal by Riley Patterson, which made the score 24–7 in favor of Detroit at half-time. The Saints scored 14 points in the third quarter via a two-yard touchdown run from Alvin Kamara and a one-yard touchdown run from Taysom Hill, reducing the Lions' lead to three points. The Lions responded with a 32-yard field goal by Patterson as time expired in the third quarter. The Lions extended their lead in the fourth quarter via a 19-yard touchdown run from Jameson Williams. The Saints scored the final points of the game via a one-yard touchdown run from Kamara, making the final score 33–28 in favor of Detroit. With the win, the Lions improved to 9–3.

Week 14: at Chicago Bears

In week 14, the Lions visited their divisional rival, the Chicago Bears, in a rematch of week 11. The Bears scored 10 points in the first quarter via a 16-yard touchdown run from D. J. Moore and a 46-yard field goal by Cairo Santos. The Lions scored 13 points in the second quarter via a 12-yard touchdown run from Jahmyr Gibbs and an eight-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Josh Reynolds, which made the score 13–10 in favor of Detroit at half-time. The Lions were held scoreless in the second half. The Bears scored nine points in the third quarter via a 25-yard field goal by Santos and a 38-yard touchdown pass from Justin Fields to Moore to regain the lead. The Bears scored nine points in the fourth quarter via an 11-yard touchdown run from Fields and a 28-yard field goal by Santos, making the final score 28–13 in favor of Chicago. With the loss, the Lions dropped to 9–4 on the season.

Week 15: vs. Denver Broncos

In week 15, the Lions hosted the Denver Broncos. After a scoreless first quarter, the Lions scored 21 points in the second quarter via a 19-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Sam LaPorta, a nine-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Jahmyr Gibbs and a 15-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown, which made the score 21–0 in favor of Detroit at half-time. The Broncos scored ten points in the third quarter via a three-yard touchdown pass from Russell Wilson to Lil'Jordan Humphrey and a 23-yard field goal by Wil Lutz. The Lions extended their lead via a three-yard touchdown pass from Goff to LaPorta. The teams exchanged touchdowns in the fourth quarter, first a 12-yard touchdown run from Gibbs for the Lions, then a one-yard touchdown run from Wilson for the Broncos. The Lions scored the final points of the game via a 10-yard touchdown pass from Goff to LaPorta, making the final score 42–17 in favor of Detroit. Goff tied a career-high with five passing touchdowns in the game.[62] With the win, the Lions improved to 10–4 on the season, their first 10 win season since 2014.[63]

Week 16: at Minnesota Vikings

In week 16, the Lions visited their divisional rival, the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas Eve. The Lions opened the scoring in the first quarter via a one-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery. The Vikings responded with a two-yard touchdown run from Ty Chandler to tie the game. The Lions scored ten points in the second quarter via a 37-yard field goal by Michael Badgley and a 14-yard touchdown run from Jahmyr Gibbs. The Vikings scored the final points of the half via a 26-yard touchdown pass from Nick Mullens to Justin Jefferson, which made the score 17–14 in favor of Detroit at half-time. In the third quarter, the Vikings took their first lead of the game via a six-yard touchdown pass from Mullens to K. J. Osborn. The Lions responded with a one-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown to regain the lead. The Lions extended their lead in the fourth quarter via a three-yard touchdown run from Gibbs. The Vikings scored the final points of the game via a 26-yard field goal by Greg Joseph, making the final score 30–24 in favor of Detroit. Ifeatu Melifonwu intercepted a Mullens pass at the Lions' five-yard line with 58 seconds remaining in the game that sealed the victory. This was Mullens' fourth interception of the game.[64] With the win, the Lions improved to 11–4 on the season, and won their division for the first time since 1993.[65]

Week 17: at Dallas Cowboys

In week 17, the Lions visited the Dallas Cowboys for their final road game of the regular season. The Lions opened the scoring in the first quarter via a 41-yard field goal by Michael Badgley. The Cowboys responded with a 92-yard touchdown pass from Dak Prescott to CeeDee Lamb. After a scoreless second quarter, the Cowboys led 7–3 at halftime. The Lions regained the lead in the third quarter via a three-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery. The Cowboys responded with a 51-yard field goal by Brandon Aubrey to tie the game. The Lions opened the scoring in the fourth quarter via a 30-yard field goal by Badgley to regain the lead. The Cowboys scored ten points in the quarter via an eight-yard touchdown pass from Prescott to Brandin Cooks and a 43-yard field goal by Aubrey. A momentum shift occurred when Cowboys tight end Peyton Hendershot tripped Aidan Hutchinson. Getting the ball back, the Lions scored the final points of the game via an 11-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown with 23 seconds left in the game. The Lions then attempted a two-point conversion, as Goff completed a pass to Taylor Decker to take the lead. However, Decker was incorrectly penalized for illegal touching after the referee said he failed to report as an eligible receiver, despite the fact that footage showed that he reported to the referee beforehand. The Lions attempted a two-point conversion again from the seven-yard line with Goff throwing an interception, but the Cowboys were penalized for offsides. On the final two-point conversion attempt, Goff's pass to James Mitchell was incomplete. In a last-ditch effort, the Lions attempted an onside kick but failed to recover the ball, and the Cowboys ran out the clock, securing a 20–19 victory.[66] Following the game, the NFL downgraded Brad Allen's officiating crew out of the playoffs for their performance.[67]

Week 18: vs. Minnesota Vikings

To end the regular season, the Lions hosted their divisional rival, the Minnesota Vikings, in a rematch of week 16. The Lions scored 13 points in the first quarter via a two-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Sam LaPorta and a three-yard touchdown run from Jahmyr Gibbs. The Vikings scored six points in the second quarter via two field goals by Greg Joseph from 39-yards, and 43-yards, respectively, which made the score 13–6 in favor of Detroit at half-time. The teams exchanged touchdowns in the third quarter, first a one-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery for the Lions, then a 38-yard touchdown pass from Nick Mullens to Justin Jefferson for the Vikings. The Lions extended their lead in the fourth quarter via a 70-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown. The Vikings responded with a 42-yard touchdown pass from Mullens to Jordan Addison. The Lions scored the final points of the game via a 39-yard field goal by Michael Badgley. With the win, the Lions improved to 12–5 on the season, tying a single-season franchise record for wins.

Standings

Conference

Postseason

See also: 2023–24 NFL playoffs.

Schedule

RoundDateOpponent (seed)ResultRecordVenueRecap
Wild CardJanuary 14Los Angeles Rams (6)W 24–231–0Ford FieldRecap
DivisionalJanuary 21Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4)W 31–232–0Ford FieldRecap
NFC ChampionshipJanuary 28at San Francisco 49ers (1)L 31–342–1Levi's StadiumRecap

Game summaries

NFC Wild Card Playoffs: vs. (6) Los Angeles Rams

To start the postseason, the Lions hosted the Los Angeles Rams, in the first ever playoff game at Ford Field. The Lions opened the scoring in the first quarter via a one-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery. The Rams responded with a 24-yard field goal by Brett Maher. The Lions extended their lead via a 10-yard touchdown run from Jahmyr Gibbs. The Rams scored 14 points in the second quarter via a 50-yard touchdown pass from Matthew Stafford to Puka Nacua and a 38-yard touchdown pass from Stafford to Tutu Atwell. The Lions responded with a two-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Sam LaPorta, which made the score 21–17 in favor of Detroit at half-time. The teams exchanged field goals in the third quarter, first a 54-yard field goal by Michael Badgley for the Lions, then a 24-yard field goal by Maher for the Rams. The Rams scored the only points of the fourth quarter via a 29-yard field goal by Maher. The Lions took possession with 4:07 left in the game and were able to run out the clock, making the final score 24–23 in favor of Detroit. This was the Lions' first playoff victory since January 5, 1992.[68]

NFC Divisional Playoffs: vs. (4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers

In the divisional round, the Lions hosted the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in a rematch of week 6. The Lions opened the scoring in the first quarter via a 23-yard field goal by Michael Badgley. The Buccaneers responded with a 43-yard field goal by Chase McLaughlin to tie the game. The Lions regained the lead in the second quarter via a nine-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Josh Reynolds. The Buccaneers responded with a 2-yard touchdown pass from Baker Mayfield to Cade Otton tying the score at 10–10 at half-time. The teams exchanged touchdowns in the third quarter, first a one-yard touchdown run from Craig Reynolds for the Lions, then a 12-yard touchdown pass from Mayfield to Rachaad White for the Buccaneers. The Lions scored 14 points in the fourth quarter via a 31-yard touchdown run from Jahmyr Gibbs and a nine-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown. The Buccaneers responded with a 16-yard touchdown pass from Mayfield to Mike Evans and a failed two-point conversion attempt. The Buccaneers' attempted comeback failed after Mayfield's pass was intercepted by Derrick Barnes with 1:35 remaining in the game, securing the Lions' victory. With the win, the Lions advanced to the NFC Championship game for the second time in franchise history, and the first time since the 1991 season.[69]

NFC Championship: at (1) San Francisco 49ers

In the NFC Championship game, the Lions visited the San Francisco 49ers. The Lions scored 14 points in the first quarter via a 42-yard touchdown run from Jameson Williams and a one-yard touchdown run from David Montgomery. The 49ers responded in the second quarter via a two-yard touchdown run from Christian McCaffrey. The Lions added ten points in the quarter via a 15-yard touchdown run from Jahmyr Gibbs and a 21-yard field goal by Michael Badgley, which made the score 24–7 in favor of Detroit at halftime. The 49ers scored 17 points in the third quarter via a 43-yard field goal by Jake Moody, a six-yard touchdown pass from Brock Purdy to Brandon Aiyuk and a one-yard touchdown run from McCaffrey to tie the game. The 49ers scored ten points in the fourth quarter via a 33-yard field goal by Moody and a three-yard touchdown run from Elijah Mitchell to take their first lead of the game. The Lions scored the final points of the game via a three-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Williams with 56 seconds remaining in the game. The Lions' attempted comeback failed after they were unable to recover an onside kick. The 49ers then ran out the clock to win, ending the Lions' season.[70]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Maakaron . John . Lions Have Started NFL Season 8–2 for First Time since 1962. SI.com. November 19, 2023. December 13, 2023.
  2. Web site: Detroit Lions players, fans go wild for first division title in 30 years . . Jared . Ramsey . December 24, 2023 . December 24, 2023.
  3. Web site: Instant observations: Lions win first NFC North crown, bring playoffs to Ford Field . . Kyle . Meinke . December 24, 2023 . December 24, 2023.
  4. https://syndication.bleacherreport.com/amp/10107004-lions-dan-campbell-questioned-by-nfl-fans-after-blowing-17-point-lead-in-49ers-loss.amp.html Lions' Dan Campbell Questioned by NFL Fans After Blowing 17-Point Lead in 49ers Loss
  5. Web site: Lions re-sign LB Alex Anzalone to contract extension through the 2025 season. detroitlions.com. March 15, 2023.
  6. Web site: Lions re-sign K Michael Badgley. 20 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  7. Web site: Patriots Sign LB Chris Board. 24 March 2023 . patriots.com.
  8. Web site: Seahawks Sign C Evan Brown. 27 April 2023 . seahawks.com.
  9. Web site: 49ers Sign DL Austin Bryant to a One-Year Deal. 24 March 2023 . 49ers.com.
  10. Web site: Lions re-sign DL Isaiah Buggs. 13 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  11. Web site: Panthers agree to terms with wide receiver DJ Chark. 29 March 2023 . panthers.com.
  12. Web site: Lions re-sign DL John Cominsky to contract extension through the 2024 season. 15 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  13. Web site: Lions re-sign long snapper Scott Daly . Lions Wire . 30 March 2023 . 22 March 2022.
  14. Web site: Miami Dolphins Sign DeShon Elliott and Dan Feeney. 19 March 2023 . miamidolphins.com.
  15. Web site: Lions re-sign CB Will Harris. 16 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  16. Web site: Lions sign Justin Jackson, waive Greg Bell . July 22, 2023 . NBCSports.com .
  17. Web site: Falcons sign cornerback Mike Hughes to two-year deal. 26 March 2023 . atlantafalcons.com.
  18. Web site: Lions bring back DT Benito Jones. 27 April 2023 . sports.yahoo.com . Yahoo! Sports.
  19. Web site: 2023-08-02 . Saints sign former Lions, Notre Dame OL Tommy Kraemer . 2023-08-03 . Saints Wire.
  20. Web site: Lions re-sign S C.J. Moore to contract extension through the 2024 season . 20 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  21. Web site: Lions re-sign T Matt Nelson . 14 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  22. Web site: Citak . Matt . Former Lions CB Amani Oruwariye joins Giants . Giants.com . March 23, 2023 . March 23, 2023.
  23. Web site: Lions re-sign OL Ross Pierschbacher . 10 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  24. Web site: Risdon . Jeff . Lions tender an offer to LB Anthony Pittman . lionswire.usatoday.com . 10 May 2023.
  25. Web site: Cardinals sign Dylan Mabin, Bobby Price. Pro Football Talk. NBCSports.com. June 5, 2023.
  26. Web site: Lions re-sign RB Craig Reynolds. 13 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  27. Web site: Colts sign OT Dan Skipper, waive OT Jordan Murray, TE Kaden Smith . 2023-08-01 . Colts.com.
  28. Web site: Lions re-sign QB Nate Sudfeld. 24 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  29. Web site: New Orleans Saints agree to terms on three-year contract with running back Jamaal Williams. 17 March 2023 . neworleanssaints.com.
  30. Web site: Cardinals Add Linebacker Josh Woods To Roster. 26 March 2023 . azcardinals.com.
  31. Web site: 2023-04-17 . Brock Wright, Shane Zylstra re-sign with Lions . 2023-09-30 . NBC Sports .
  32. Web site: Lions sign unrestricted free agent DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson. 20 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  33. Web site: Lions sign unrestricted free agent OL Graham Glasgow. 20 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  34. Web site: Lions sign unrestricted free agent WR Marvin Jones Jr.. 7 April 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  35. Web site: Detroit Lions sign CB Mac McCain. 23 February 2023 . prideofdetroit.com.
  36. Web site: Lions sign unrestricted free agent LS Jake McQuaide. 20 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  37. Web site: Lions sign unrestricted free agent RB David Montgomery. 16 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  38. Web site: Lions sign unrestricted free agent CB Emmanuel Moseley. 16 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  39. Web site: Lions sign free agent LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin. 29 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  40. Web site: Lions sign unrestricted free agent CB Cameron Sutton. 16 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  41. Web site: 24 February 2023 . Lions release DL Michael Brockers. 13 March 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  42. Web site: 11 April 2023 . Lions trade former No. 3 overall pick Jeff Okudah to Falcons. 15 April 2023 . ESPN.com.
  43. Web site: 21 April 2023 . Lions release WR Quintez Cephus and S C.J. Moore. 21 April 2023 . detroitlions.com.
  44. Web site: Lions trade RB D'Andre Swift to Eagles after drafting Alabama's Jahmyr Gibbs in Round 1 . April 29, 2023 . nfl.com . Patra . Kevin.
  45. Lions . 1689661389512540160 .
    1. Lions announce roster moves: Sign QB Teddy Bridgewater and RB Benny Snell Waive G Logan Stenberg Place RB Justin Jackson on Reserve/Retired list
    .
  46. Web site: Marvin Jones announces he's stepping away from Lions; WR later released by team . 2023-12-18 . NFL.com . en-US.
  47. Web site: Detroit Lions stun by picking Alabama RB Jahmyr Gibbs at No. 12 overall in NFL draft 2023 . . Dave . Birkett . April 27, 2023 . April 27, 2023.
  48. Web site: Detroit Lions pick Iowa's Jack Campbell, Big Ten's top defender, at No. 18 in NFL draft . . Dave . Birkett . April 27, 2023 . April 27, 2023.
  49. Web site: Detroit Lions take Iowa TE Sam LaPorta in second round of NFL draft . . Dave . Birkett . April 28, 2023 . April 28, 2023.
  50. Web site: Detroit Lions trade up for Alabama DB Brian Branch in Round 2 of NFL draft 2023 . . Dave . Birkett . April 28, 2023 . April 28, 2023.
  51. Web site: Detroit Lions pick Tennessee QB Hendon Hooker in third round of NFL draft 2023 . . Dave . Birkett . April 28, 2023 . April 28, 2023.
  52. Web site: Detroit Lions pick Western Kentucky DT Brodric Martin in Round 3 of NFL draft 2023 . . Dave . Birkett . April 28, 2023 . April 28, 2023.
  53. Web site: Detroit Lions take OL Colby Sorsdal in 5th round of NFL draft . . Dave . Birkett . April 29, 2023 . April 29, 2023.
  54. Web site: Detroit Lions pick North Carolina WR Antoine Green in 7th round of NFL draft 2023 . . Dave . Birkett . April 29, 2023 . April 29, 2023.
  55. News: TWENTYMAN: A closer look at the Lions' undrafted rookie free agents. detroitlions.com. May 12, 2023.
  56. Web site: Detroit Lions start 4–1 (or better) for fourth time in 50 seasons . . Ryan . Ford . October 8, 2023 . October 8, 2023.
  57. https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/10/15/detroit-lions-atop-nfl-standings-first-place-after-win-over-tampa-bay-buccaneers/71199759007/ Detroit Lions are atop NFL standings after win over Tampa Bay Buccaneers; fans react
  58. Web site: David Montgomery's 75-yard touchdown run longest in 12 years for Detroit Lions . . Jared . Ramsey . November 12, 2023 . November 12, 2023.
  59. Web site: Lions 31–26 Bears (Nov 19, 2023) Final Score . ESPN.com . November 19, 2023 . November 19, 2023.
  60. Web site: Wojo: Lions defy comeback odds, rise to 8–2 record for first time in 61 years . . Bob . Wojnowski . November 19, 2023 . November 19, 2023.
  61. Web site: Instant observations: Lions stun Bears, improve to 8–2 for first time since 1962 . . Kyle . Meinke . November 19, 2023 . November 19, 2023.
  62. Web site: Jared Goff throws 5 TD passes as NFC North-leading Detroit Lions bounce back, beat Broncos . cbsnews.com . . December 16, 2023 . December 16, 2023.
  63. Web site: Jared Goff erupts for 5 TDs as Lions trounce Broncos . . Jeff . Legwold . Eric . Woodyard . December 16, 2023 . December 16, 2023.
  64. Web site: Lions end long drought, win 1st division title since '93 . . Eric . Woodyard . December 24, 2023 . December 24, 2023.
  65. Web site: Detroit Lions win NFC North with thrilling 30–24 victory over Minnesota Vikings . . Dave . Birkett . December 24, 2023 . December 24, 2023.
  66. Web site: Detroit Lions fans say team was 'screwed' by refs late in 20–19 loss to the Dallas Cowboys . . James . Ramsey . December 31, 2023 . December 31, 2023.
  67. Web site: Garrett. Podell. NFL expected to downgrade Brad Allen ref crew for playoffs after Lions-Cowboys questionable calls, per report. CBS Sports. December 31, 2023. December 31, 2023.
  68. Web site: How the Lions beat the Rams to snap a 32-year playoff win drought and spoil Matthew Stafford's return . . Mark . Cooper . January 14, 2024 . January 14, 2024.
  69. Web site: Derrick Barnes' interception punches Lions' ticket to San Francisco . . Barry . Werner . January 21, 2024 . January 21, 2024.
  70. Web site: Justin. Rogers. HEARTBREAK: Lions squander 17-point lead, fall to 49ers in NFC Championship. The Detroit News. January 28, 2024. February 6, 2024.

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