Detroit’s Quarterback Reflects on Thanksgiving Victory Amid Controversial Ending
As the Detroit Lions celebrated their dramatic Thanksgiving Day victory over the Chicago Bears, quarterback Jared Goff reflected on the thrilling end to what became a memorable game. The Lions managed to hang on for a 23-20 win, but the final moments were a rollercoaster, thanks to a series of unfortunate decisions from the Bears that almost gave the game away. For Goff, it was not just a win, but a statement game for his team.
A Hard-Fought Victory
In a contest that featured plenty of twists and turns, it was the Bears’ clock management failure in the final moments that allowed Detroit to escape with the win. With 32 seconds left in regulation, the Bears, down by three, found themselves in a frantic scramble to get into position for a game-tying or winning score. However, a miscommunication and a lack of urgency left them with no time to make a play, allowing the Lions to hang on.
Speaking to CBS immediately after the game, Goff, who secured his first Thanksgiving win as a Lion, summed up his feelings with a simple, yet powerful statement. “It was awesome,” he said. For Goff, the victory marked a milestone—his first Thanksgiving win, and the team’s first in his tenure, adding extra significance to the result.
“I thought Caleb played really well,” Goff added, giving a nod to rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, who showed resilience in the final moments despite his team’s mismanagement. “I’m sure we’ll have our battles for a long time, but he’s a good player and did a good job.”
Decision-Making Under Pressure
In his postgame press conference, Goff elaborated on the intense nature of the game’s final moments. He acknowledged the difficulty of making split-second decisions during such crucial times. “The end of the game stuff, it’s hard, it’s real-time decisions both sides are making. It’s a lot of reps, a lot of time spent on situational stuff, and we came out on top today,” Goff explained.
While the Lions were able to capitalize on Chicago’s errors, they also had to manage the pressure themselves. Goff’s calm demeanor throughout the game’s chaotic finale was a key factor in Detroit’s ability to stay composed. The Lions quarterback, who completed 68% of his passes for 240 yards and one touchdown, was quick to praise his teammates, particularly second-year tight end Sam LaPorta, who was instrumental in the victory. LaPorta caught two touchdowns on the day, further solidifying his role as a reliable target in the offense.
A Thanksgiving to Remember
Beyond the win, Goff couldn’t help but express his gratitude for the traditional post-game Thanksgiving meal. “It was actually pretty good. The stuffing was good,” he laughed. “We were having a good time. It’s awesome. It’s a memory I’ll have forever.” For Goff and the Lions, it was more than just a victory on the field—it was an unforgettable experience off the field as well.
While the Lions were celebrating, Bears head coach Matt Eberflus faced the aftermath of his team’s decision not to use a timeout at the game’s crucial juncture. “Our hope was, because it was third going into fourth, that we would re-rack that play at 18 seconds,” Eberflus explained, defending his team’s lack of urgency. Unfortunately for Chicago, the decision proved costly.
For Jared Goff and the Lions, however, it was a Thanksgiving game that will go down in history, thanks to a thrilling finish and an inspiring victory.
