With Week 18’s game against the Minnesota Vikings deciding the top seed in the NFC playoffs and the NFC North title, the Detroit Lions’ game against the San Francisco 49ers was basically pointless. That’s not to say the game didn’t draw attention to one tendency in Detroit that is especially worrisome. The thrilling Lions’ offence ultimately took the lead in a 40-34 shootout victory, but the defence once again found it difficult to stop an opponent offence.
And if Brock Purdy hadn’t made two strange interceptions in the second half, or if Jake Moody of San Francisco hadn’t missed two field goals and an extra point, the outcome might have been closer.
Keep in mind that the Niners (6-10) have now lost six of their last seven games and have been limited to 17 points or less in five of those games. While Jahmyr Gibbs ran for 117 yards and a touchdown, Jared Goff led the Lions with 303 yards and three touchdowns on 26 of 34.
On the attacking end of the ball, the Lions are indeed outstanding. Indeed, their defence has been severely damaged by injuries, so it’s simple to see how the problems have arisen. However, as fans and commentators quickly noted on social media, it has grown to such an extent that it seriously jeopardises their hopes of winning the Super Bowl:
As demonstrated by their 14-2 record, the Lions are a lot of fun to watch offensively and are skilled enough to defeat several teams in shootouts. On both sides of the ball, however, the NFC’s Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings, as well as the AFC’s Kansas City Chiefs, are far more evenly matched. What would happen if the defence is unable to slow down the offences of the Vikings or Eagles and they receive more defensive stops during the playoffs? Can Detroit truly rely on its outstanding offence to win every playoff game?
The adage that defences win titles is among the oldest in sports, and it’s still true for a reason. Perhaps it would be more accurate to state that outstanding quarterbacks who are supported by formidable defences win championships in the NFL. Without both, however, it’s extremely difficult to make it to the Super Bowl and win.