The Detroit Lions significantly boosted their hopes of reaching the NFL play-offs with an impressive 44–30 victory over the Dallas Cowboys at Ford Field. The win helps Detroit regain momentum after a mixed run of form and moves them to a competitive position in the NFC race.

Jahmyr Gibbs Shines With Three Touchdowns

Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs delivered one of the standout performances of the season, scoring three touchdowns and proving why he was selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Gibbs’ dominant outing also moved him to 47 career touchdowns, tying legendary running back Barry Sanders for the most touchdowns scored by a player before their 24th birthday.

Jared Goff Leads the Offense With Precision

Quarterback Jared Goff completed 25 of 34 passes, throwing for 309 yards and adding a touchdown through the air. The Lions offense looked sharp and confident, reversing their earlier struggles after losing three of their last six games.

After the win, Goff said:
“It felt like we got back to kind of who we are. Maybe we can become that now.”

The Lions now sit at 8–5 and remain firmly in the NFC North play-off conversation.

Cowboys’ Play-Off Chances Take a Hit

The Dallas Cowboys, who entered Detroit riding a three-game winning streak, saw their postseason outlook weaken as they dropped to 6–6.
Despite trailing by 18 points in the third quarter, Dallas clawed back into the contest when Dak Prescott connected for a touchdown followed by a two-point conversion, narrowing the score to 30–27.

However, Detroit responded quickly and decisively, with Gibbs scoring two more touchdowns to secure the win and halt Dallas’ comeback effort.

Dan Campbell Praises Lions’ Mentality

Lions head coach Dan Campbell highlighted the team’s focus and resilience, saying:
“The work was there all week… the intensity, the urgency. The guys don’t get panicked. They just go to work, and they did it again.”

Detroit’s renewed confidence puts them in a strong position heading into the final stretch of the season.

What’s Next for Both Teams

• Detroit Lions: Travel to face the Los Angeles Rams at 21:25 GMT on 14 December
• Dallas Cowboys: Host the Minnesota Vikings at 01:20 GMT on 15 December, hoping to halt their slide and keep their NFC East hopes alive