The Detroit Lions, with little at stake in terms of playoff positioning, delivered a powerful performance in the Bay Area, putting up 40 points against the San Francisco 49ers defense. After a devastating loss in last season’s NFC Championship game, where they led 24-7 at halftime, the Lions mounted a 23-7 surge in the second half, never relinquishing the lead. Key defensive plays in the latter half helped them seal the victory.
The Lions, including their fans, were eager to move past last year’s painful playoff exit. Many players were deserving of recognition, but I’m handing out the game ball and highlighting an unsung hero.
Game Ball: Kerby Joseph
Although Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Jameson Williams all played major roles in the victory over the 49ers, I’m giving the game ball to a defensive player—Kerby Joseph. Despite the Lions’ defense allowing 34 points (21 in the first half), Joseph’s pivotal contributions were crucial.
After a rough start, including a personal foul penalty on the opening drive, Joseph made an immediate impact. The 49ers scored on their first three drives and added a touchdown on their fifth drive. On the 49ers’ sixth drive, with Brock Purdy at the helm, Joseph intercepted a pass that had been overthrown and seized the opportunity to turn the game in Detroit’s favor. The Lions offense responded with a touchdown, taking their first lead of the game.
Later, after another missed field goal attempt by Jake Moody, Purdy threw another pass that was picked off by Joseph, this time stopping a drive on the Lions’ 36-yard line. Joseph’s pick set up a touchdown and allowed the Lions to maintain control of the game, leading to a defining 40-28 victory.
Joseph finished the game with six tackles, one defensive stop, no receptions allowed, and two interceptions. His season total now stands at nine interceptions, the most in the NFL, and the most by a Lions defender since 1981. Since joining the NFL, Joseph has accumulated 17 interceptions, leading the league, and has recorded three games with multiple picks.
Despite injuries to key defensive players, the Lions’ defense continues to rely on playmakers like Joseph to create turnovers and keep their playoff hopes alive.
Unsung Hero: Scottie Montgomery
Scottie Montgomery, the assistant head coach and running backs coach for the Lions, is this week’s unsung hero. After losing star running back David Montgomery in Week 15, the Lions’ backfield has remained highly effective under Montgomery’s guidance. Both Jahmyr Gibbs and Craig Reynolds have stepped up in significant ways, keeping the ground game productive.
Gibbs was outstanding, registering 163 total yards from scrimmage (second-most in his career). He rushed 18 times for 117 yards and a touchdown, also adding 46 receiving yards on four catches. Gibbs was especially effective on third downs, with three runs of 10+ yards and five rushing first downs. His ability to block on passing plays, especially against the 49ers’ blitzes, also stood out, demonstrating his growth as a well-rounded back.
Reynolds had his best performance of the season, accumulating 66 yards on just nine touches. He rushed for 31 yards on seven carries, caught two passes for 35 yards (including a 26-yard gain on his first reception), and even contributed a tackle on special teams. Reynolds’ all-around play has been invaluable, adding crucial yards and first downs when needed.
Though Jermar Jefferson didn’t rack up major yardage, his 8-yard run helped set up the Lions’ first touchdown. Montgomery’s running back group has proven to be resilient and productive, helping the Lions keep their momentum going.
