The Detroit Lions’ defense had been under scrutiny for its recent struggles, but in their Week 18 game, the unit stepped up in a big way, particularly in the red zone. Despite facing a high-powered Minnesota Vikings offense, the Lions kept them out of the end zone, allowing only three field goals in a 31-9 win. Detroit’s defense forced two field goals and two turnovers on downs during the Vikings’ four red zone trips, using various pressure tactics and solid coverage to stifle Minnesota’s attempts.
In the second quarter, with the Vikings trailing 7-0, Minnesota faced second-and-goal from the Detroit 3-yard line. The Vikings utilized a unique formation, moving star wide receiver Justin Jefferson to the backfield against linebacker Alex Anzalone. The Lions’ defense managed to get pressure with just four rushers, led by Josh Paschal, who disrupted quarterback Sam Darnold’s timing. Darnold, under pressure, was forced to scramble and throw the ball away, keeping the Vikings from scoring.
On the next play, the Vikings faced a crucial fourth-and-goal at the 3-yard line. They lined up in a bunch formation and sent Jefferson in motion. Darnold had a wide open Jordan Addison running a speed-out route, but Darnold hesitated and missed the throw. Although Addison was clear for a potential touchdown, Darnold’s inaccurate pass sailed high and outside, and the Vikings’ drive ended with a turnover on downs.
The Lions’ defense was tested again shortly after, following a turnover by Jared Goff, which set up the Vikings with a first-and-goal at the Detroit 7-yard line. The Vikings lined up in an empty formation with trips to the right, running a mesh concept with crossing routes. However, linebacker Alex Anzalone stayed in stride with Aaron Jones, preventing him from finding open space in the middle. Darnold attempted to force a pass to Jefferson, but cornerback Amik Robertson made a solid play, nearly intercepting the ball.
Facing second-and-goal after the incompletion, the Vikings had another chance to score. This time, Darnold was under heavy pressure again, as the Lions’ defense blitzed. The Vikings ran crossing routes again, but Detroit’s tight coverage forced Darnold into a quick decision. As Darnold looked for Jefferson, he was pressured by linebacker Brian Branch, who came free toward the quarterback. Darnold was unable to complete the pass, and the Lions’ defense held strong again.
The Vikings’ final opportunity came with a third-and-goal from the Detroit 7-yard line, where they needed a touchdown to keep their hopes alive. The Vikings ran a route concept designed to exploit man-to-man coverage. T.J. Hockenson ran an in-breaking route, while Jefferson’s vertical route and Addison’s whip route were intended to open up space. However, cornerback Amik Robertson bit on Addison’s whip route, allowing Jefferson to gain separation.
Despite Jefferson’s separation, the Lions’ blitzing defense continued to pressure Darnold. Brian Branch, coming free from the blitz, forced Darnold to miss a pass intended for the open Jefferson in the back corner of the end zone. The Vikings were unable to capitalize on their third red zone opportunity, and the Lions’ defense forced them to settle for another field goal attempt.
Throughout the game, the Lions’ defense delivered a strong performance, keeping the Vikings from scoring touchdowns in critical red zone situations. Their ability to apply pressure on quarterback Sam Darnold, maintain tight coverage, and stay disciplined in key moments ultimately led to a dominant defensive showing. The Lions’ defense proved that it could rise to the occasion when it mattered most, contributing significantly to their 31-9 victory over the Vikings.
