Over the weekend, the Detroit Lions rewrote history by shedding their dubious distinction of never securing the No. 1 seed in their conference.
In a dominant 31-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday night, the Lions clinched the NFC North title, locked up the conference’s top seed, and set a franchise record for most wins in a season.
Star running back Jahmyr Gibbs was unstoppable, amassing 170 yards and four touchdowns, bringing his season total to 20—a new Lions record.
Reflecting on the team’s success, Gibbs remarked, “We’re having a better season this year. People still doubt us, so shutting them up feels good.”
Quarterback Jared Goff added to the historic night, becoming the first player in NFL history to complete at least 72% of his passes while surpassing 4,500 passing yards in a season. His accomplishments didn’t stop there.
On Wednesday, the Lions announced Goff broke Tom Brady’s single-season record for most games with a completion rate of 75% or higher, achieving it in nine games.
With the division title and the No. 1 seed secured, along with a first-round bye, Goff emphasized the team’s focus remains on the bigger picture. “It’s not the cherry on top,” he said. “Not yet.”
The Lions, now enjoying their best season in franchise history, will take the weekend off before finding out their opponent for the divisional round.
It’s been a historic season for Detroit, one that fans will remember for years, but the team is making it clear their work isn’t finished just yet.