The Detroit Lions found themselves down by six in the second quarter on Sunday night when Jared Goff launched a perfectly timed pass to Jameson Williams streaking through the middle of the Eagles’ defense. Williams hauled it in without breaking stride and sprinted straight into the end zone, knotting the score.
But the touchdown’s momentum didn’t last long.
After scoring, Williams leaped onto the goalpost in celebration, drawing an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. That 15-yard setback forced kicker Jake Bates to attempt a much tougher 47-yard extra point in the swirling Philadelphia wind. Bates pushed the kick wide right, leaving the game tied at 6–6 instead of giving Detroit the lead. Entering the matchup, Bates had been nearly automatic, converting 33 of his 34 extra-point tries this season.
A clip of Williams’ celebration quickly circulated online, showing the moment that cost Detroit a valuable point in what turned out to be a tight, defensive battle. Another replay showed the touchdown itself, a beautifully executed play that briefly energized the Lions’ sideline.
The NFL has long been strict about interactions with the goalpost, banning dunks, swings, or embraces involving the uprights. Despite the harmless nature of Williams’ jump, the league treats it the same as more dangerous infractions, such as helmet-to-helmet hits — a rule many fans continue to find confusing.
Still, the Lions hope the young receiver takes the moment as a lesson learned, especially in games where every point matters.
