The Detroit Lions’ remarkable season concludes on a heartbreaking note as they surrender a 17-point lead in a 34-31 defeat to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship game.
In the first half, the Lions asserted control with a commanding 24-7 lead, showcasing an unstoppable offense and a defense that made crucial stops at opportune moments. However, the narrative took a sharp turn in the second half, as everything that could go wrong for the Lions seemingly did, creating a deficit they couldn’t overcome by the game’s end.
While the Lions’ season exceeded expectations, their inexperience and missed opportunities became evident in this critical game, leaving them just one step shy of a Super Bowl berth.
As we bid farewell to the season, let’s reflect on the Studs and Duds in the Lions’ loss to the 49ers in the NFC Championship.
Stud: Jameson Williams
Jan 14, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams (9) is introduced before a 2024 NFC wild card game against the Los Angeles Rams at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports
Williams experienced a season full of ups and downs, but as it unfolded, he managed to earn the trust of both Jared Goff and the coaching staff, leading to increased involvement. Today’s performance was no exception. He showcased his exceptional speed by kickstarting the scoring with a 42-yard end-around, stumbling into the end zone. While he remained relatively quiet afterward, he made a skillful and focused catch to extend a crucial drive. In the closing moments, he secured his second touchdown. The future appears promising for this young receiver, and it seems the sky is the limit for his potential.
Dud: Josh Reynolds
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 28: Josh Reynolds #8 of the Detroit Lions is unable to make a catch during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game at Levi’s Stadium on January 28, 2024 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
The typically dependable receiver faced a challenging day, committing crucial errors at the most inopportune moments. Initially, he failed to secure a pass to convert a fourth down in 49ers territory. While the pass was slightly off target, his track record throughout the season demonstrated an ability to make tough catches. The mistakes continued to accumulate as he dropped a wide-open pass that could have converted a pivotal third down in a drive the Lions desperately needed. In games of this magnitude, execution becomes paramount, and unfortunately, Reynolds and the Lions felt the consequences at the worst possible time.
Stud: David Montgomery
Lions running back David Montgomery runs against 49ers during the first half of the NFC championship game at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024.
Dud: Kindle Vildor and Cameron Sutton
Lions cornerback Kindle Vildor celebrates a play against the Cowboys during the first half at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023.
If there’s a glaring gap that the Lions must address this offseason, it’s undoubtedly the outside cornerback position, and perhaps to a lesser extent, the kicker position. While Sutton was a significant addition this offseason and has showcased his skills on occasion, teams have targeted him in recent games, turning him into a potential liability. On the other side, Vildor stepped in after Jerry Jacobs’ injury, and there are uncertainties about how he has maintained his starting position on the defense.
Both Sutton and Vildor missed opportunities to intercept passes that could have easily been turnovers. One particularly disheartening moment occurred when Vildor had a chance to make an interception but instead saw the ball bounce off his facemask, enabling Brandon Aiyuk to make a highlight-reel play. Additionally, their tackling left much to be desired, allowing for more yards after the catch than should have been conceded.
In light of these challenges, the Lions must critically evaluate the cornerback room and make informed decisions moving forward.
Dud: Tackling
Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone celebrates a play in the first quarter of the NFC championship game at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024.
During the first half, the Lions’ defense appeared to have a solution for the formidable 49ers offense. However, as the second half unfolded, the situation took a turn for the worse. Providing the 49ers with extra opportunities proved costly, as they have a knack for capitalizing and holding onto momentum. Unfortunately, missed tackles became a significant issue for the Lions.
Despite having Brock Purdy within their grasp multiple times, the Lions failed to bring him down. This resulted in Purdy either connecting with a deep pass or utilizing his legs to scramble for an impressive 51 yards. The Lions had ample opportunities to force the 49ers off the field, but the persistent issue of missed tackles breathed new life into the 49ers, ultimately leading to the downfall of the Lions.