The Detroit Lions delivered another impressive performance during their Week 16 matchup, dominating the Chicago Bears with a convincing 34-17 victory. The game was highlighted by one of the season's best trick plays, orchestrated to perfection by Lions quarterback Jared Goff and running back Jahmyr Gibbs, which not only showcased their on-field chemistry but also underscored the creativity of the Lions' offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson.
From the moment the game kicked off at Soldier Field on December 22, 2024, it was clear the Lions came to play. Jumping to an early lead, the Lions quickly made it known they would not repeat their earlier near-miss against the Bears. By the start of the second quarter, Goff threw an impressive 82-yard touchdown pass to receiver Jameson Williams, electrifying the fans and sending the Lions up 20-0.
But it was the trick play late in the third quarter with the score at 34-14 where the excitement reached its peak. Goff appeared to stumble after taking the snap from under center, propelling the Bears' defense toward what they thought was a fumble. Gibbs, meanwhile, sold the act perfectly, hitting the ground as if the handoff had gone awry, with teammates shouting, "fumble, fumble!" Goff, not really falling at all, held onto the ball and turned to find tight end Sam LaPorta streaking behind the confused Bears secondary.
With pinpoint accuracy, Goff launched the ball from the 30-yard line for LaPorta to complete the trickery with ease, scoring another touchdown and sealing the game early for the Lions. Responding to the success of the play, the official NFL Twitter account tweeted, "The Oscar goes to....@JaredGoff16 @jahmyr_gibbs1 🤣🤣🤣#DETvsCHI | 📺 FOX," capturing the imagination of fans both at the game and watching from home.
Goff had already put together quite the performance before this moment, completing 23 of 32 passes for 336 yards without committing any turnovers. His play was instrumental in boosting the Lions to 474 total yards against the Bears on Sunday, demonstrating their offensive prowess. Notably, Williams finished the game leading all receivers with five catches for 143 yards and another touchdown.
On the other side of the field, Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams put forth one of his best performances of the season, throwing for 334 yards and two touchdowns. Yet, it was not enough to turn the tide for Chicago, whose season continues to spiral with this loss marking their ninth consecutive defeat, resulting in a dismal 4-11 record.
The victory allowed the Lions to maintain their soaring success, propelling their record to 13-2, the best they’ve managed ever, and keeping them firmly at the top of the NFC playoff race. The Eagles, who lost to the Commanders earlier, fell to 12-3, creating some breathing room for the Lions as they attempt to secure their spot and earn the number one seed with just two games left until the playoffs.
Yet, concerns linger for the Lions, particularly on defense as they played without several starters including Pro Bowl pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson. The Bears managed 382 yards against the Lions' defense, highlighting some vulnerabilities as the postseason looms near.
Despite any concerns, the highlight reel-worthy trick play added to the appeal of the Lions' high-octane offense, which leads the NFL. Even during tight contests, the creative plays have sparked excitement among fans and team members alike, reinforcing the positive momentum they've gained as they approach the playoffs.
The success of the play raised questions about coach Ben Johnson potentially securing head coaching interviews this offseason, as his innovative play-calling has thrust the Lions back onto the NFL map. Analysts noted the creativity employed during the trick play could be referred to as "The Detroit Special," borrowing from the famous "Philly Special" from the Eagles' Super Bowl win, and making it evident the Lions may possess more tricks up their sleeves as they forge their path toward the potential playoffs.
With their growing confidence and strategic prowess, the Lions continue to not just win games, but entertain as they reestablish themselves as contenders worthy of recognition as the NFL season winds down. Fans can eagerly anticipate what might come next as the Lions prepare for their final two regular-season games and the postseason beyond.
