Jared Goff continued his impressive play, leading the Detroit Lions’ offense in a 40-34 victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football. Goff threw for at least three touchdowns for the fourth consecutive game, connecting with Jameson Williams, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Sam LaPorta. He completed 26 of 34 passes for 303 yards, without any interceptions, and posted a passer rating of 132.4. Lions head coach Dan Campbell praised Goff, calling his performance “lights out” and noting that he has consistently played at a very high level.
Goff is having a historic season. His performance against the 49ers marked his eighth game this year with a completion percentage of 75% or higher, tying Tom Brady’s 2007 record for the most such games in a single season. Goff also recorded his 11th game with a completion percentage of 70% or more and his seventh road game with at least 70%. The Lions finished the regular season undefeated on the road.
Growing up in California, Goff was excited to play in front of numerous friends and family members while defeating the team he once rooted for. “We’re all playing at a high level right now on offense,” Goff remarked. “Even in the Buffalo game we lost, we scored a lot of points. The offense has been clicking for several weeks, and I feel like I’m just a part of it.”
The Lions’ victory sets the stage for a thrilling NFC North showdown with the 14-2 Minnesota Vikings, where the winner will claim the division title and secure the No. 1 seed in the NFC, which guarantees a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Campbell described the matchup as “fairytale stuff,” noting how remarkable it is that both teams are tied at 14-2 with so much at stake.
In other news, All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell was evaluated for a thumb injury at halftime but returned to play the entire second half. Coach Campbell stated that while Sewell was dealing with the injury, he wasn’t concerned and expected him to be fine.
Jameson Williams is finishing the regular season strong, continuing to make big plays for the Lions’ offense. Against the 49ers, Williams recorded five catches for 77 yards and a touchdown, along with a three-yard touchdown run. His 41-yard touchdown reception, following a lateral from St. Brown, marked his fifth touchdown of 40 or more yards this season, joining Cloyce Box (1950, 1952) as the only players in franchise history to achieve that feat in a single season.
