In a dramatic Sunday Night Football showdown at Ford Field in Detroit, the Lions opened their 2024 NFL season with a thrilling 26-20 overtime victory against the Los Angeles Rams. David Montgomery’s 1-yard touchdown run in overtime sealed the win, capping a balanced offensive performance and a resilient team effort.
The Lions started strong, building a two-touchdown lead by the third quarter. However, the Rams, led by veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, mounted a comeback to tie the game and even took the lead late in the fourth quarter.
With just 4:30 left in regulation, Stafford connected with Cooper Kupp for a 9-yard touchdown pass, giving the Rams a 20-17 lead. Kupp, in vintage form, finished with 14 receptions for 110 yards, matching a career high. Despite Stafford’s heroics, Detroit wasn’t ready to let their season opener slip away.
The Lions responded by marching down the field, setting up Jake Bates for a game-tying 32-yard field goal with less than a minute remaining. Detroit then won the coin toss for overtime and quickly took advantage, moving the ball with a series of effective plays. Montgomery capped the drive with his game-winning touchdown, securing the victory and sending the Detroit fans into a frenzy.
Detroit’s balanced offense was key to the victory. Jared Goff, who faced his former team and mentor in Stafford, was efficient, completing 18 of 28 passes for 217 yards, including a touchdown and an interception. The Lions also leaned heavily on their running game, with Montgomery rushing 17 times for 91 yards and a touchdown. Rookie Jahmyr Gibbs added 40 yards and a score on 11 carries.
The Lions’ ability to grind out yards on the ground and make pivotal plays in the air mirrored their formula for success in last year’s NFC wild-card game. While Goff and Montgomery led the offense, Detroit’s defense made crucial stops and forced a key interception early in the second quarter when safety Kerby Joseph picked off Stafford in the end zone.
Despite the loss, Stafford showcased his durability and leadership. He completed 34 of 49 passes for 317 yards and a touchdown, battling through multiple hits, including some to his already tender right ankle. The Rams’ offensive line struggled, especially after losing two key linemen to injury, and Pro Bowl receiver Puka Nacua also went down, further hampering Los Angeles’ chances.
The Lions’ defense stiffened when needed, and Detroit’s offense took advantage of their opportunities, moving the ball with consistency in overtime. Montgomery’s winning touchdown was the culmination of a well-executed drive, where the Lions gained at least 9 yards on their first four plays.
Detroit’s victory is an early statement of their intentions this season, showcasing a balanced offensive attack and resilience in key moments. For the Rams, it was a valiant effort despite a depleted lineup, and while they showed fight, they couldn’t finish off the comeback.
The Lions, coming off a promising 2023 campaign, will look to build on this season-opening win as they aim to make a deeper playoff push in 2024.
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