The Detroit Lions fell to 7-5 after a tough 31-24 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Ford Field, failing to avenge their Week 1 defeat in the annual Thanksgiving Day Classic.
Slow Start: Lions Offense Stumbles Early
Detroit opened the game with offensive struggles as Jared Goff faced heavy pressure, preventing the Lions from sustaining early drives. The quarter took a tougher turn when Amon-Ra St. Brown exited with an ankle injury, forcing Detroit to adjust quickly.
Lions Gain Momentum After Packers Strike First
Green Bay jumped ahead after Dontayvion Wicks secured a tight end-zone catch confirmed by review, putting the Packers up 10-0. Detroit answered with a much-needed 10-play, 65-yard scoring drive, finally settling into rhythm.
Jameson Williams Becomes Key Target
With St. Brown sidelined, the Lions leaned on Jameson Williams to ignite the passing attack. After Detroit failed to complete a pass in the first quarter, Williams delivered the team’s first reception—a 22-yard strike. Tom Kennedy followed with a 23-yard catch to set up Detroit’s opening touchdown.
Dan Campbell’s Aggressive Calls Prove Costly
Head coach Dan Campbell stayed true to his aggressive fourth-down mentality, but this time it hurt the Lions. Early in the second half, Detroit failed twice on fourth-down rush attempts with Jahmyr Gibbs, turning the ball over deep in their own territory.
The Packers capitalized quickly, extending the lead to 24-14 after Jordan Love launched a 51-yard touchdown bomb to Christian Watson, who beat Amik Robertson downfield.
Early in the fourth quarter, with Detroit trailing 31-21, Campbell again chose to go for it on fourth down instead of kicking a field goal. Goff’s pass to Williams fell incomplete, resulting in another turnover on downs.
Rookie Isaac TeSlaa Shines in Expanded Role
Despite the setbacks, Detroit found late-game energy. Jared Goff scrambled for 24 yards to spark a key drive, then connected with rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa on a 17-yard touchdown to cut the deficit to 24-21.
But Detroit’s comeback fell short as the Packers controlled the clock and held on for the road victory.
