Detroit Lions/ Bears vs. Lions/ Thanksgiving football 2024/ Jared Goff/ Sam LaPorta/ Lions win streak/ Caleb Williams/ NFL Thanksgiving games/ NFC standings/ Lions franchise record/ DETROIT/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The Detroit Lions extended their win streak to 10 games, narrowly defeating the Chicago Bears 23-20 on Thanksgiving. Jared Goff threw two touchdowns to Sam LaPorta, while Jake Bates contributed three field goals. The Bears’ late comeback fell short as rookie Caleb Williams was sacked on a critical play in Detroit territory.
Lions Win Streak Quick Looks
- Franchise History: Lions’ 10-game win streak ties their all-time record set in 1934.
- Goff and LaPorta Deliver: Jared Goff threw two TDs to Sam LaPorta, including a key 1-yarder.
- Bears Fall Short: Chicago’s late rally ended after a clock management misstep by rookie QB Caleb Williams.
- Dominant Start: Detroit built a commanding 16-0 halftime lead with early scoring drives.
- Key Injuries: Both teams suffered significant injuries, including Lions’ LB Malcolm Rodriguez.
Lions Edge Bears 23-20, Set Franchise Record With 10th Win
Deep Look
The Detroit Lions held off a determined Chicago Bears rally to secure a hard-fought 23-20 victory on Thanksgiving, extending their winning streak to 10 games and solidifying their place atop the NFC. Jared Goff connected with rookie tight end Sam LaPorta for two touchdown passes, and Jake Bates’ trio of first-half field goals provided the Lions with a strong foundation to withstand Chicago’s late-game push.
The Lions (11-1) now boast their best 12-game record in franchise history, tying a team-record 10-game win streak from 1934. Detroit’s dominance has been a hallmark this season, with the team leading the NFL in point differential. However, Thursday’s narrow win highlighted the resilience needed to prevail in closer contests.
Commanding Start for the Lions
Detroit surged ahead early, capitalizing on a balanced offensive attack and a stifling defense. After forcing four consecutive Bears punts to open the game, the Lions methodically built a 16-0 halftime lead. Jared Goff’s precise 3-yard touchdown pass to Sam LaPorta and three field goals from Jake Bates—whose streak of 19 consecutive makes ended later in the game—proved crucial.
The Lions extended their lead to 23-7 late in the third quarter when Goff found LaPorta again, this time on a 1-yard toss set up by a 15-yard reverse from Jameson Williams. Williams’ athletic hurdle over Kevin Byard added flair to the pivotal drive.
Bears’ Rally Falls Short
Chicago’s rookie quarterback Caleb Williams struggled early but showcased resilience in the second half, throwing two touchdown passes to Keenan Allen and another to DJ Moore. His 31-yard strike to Allen in the third quarter followed a dramatic moment where Williams avoided a potentially serious knee injury. A low hit by Lions linebacker Jack Campbell left Williams shaken but undeterred, as he connected with Allen on the next play.
Despite closing the gap to 23-20 late in the fourth quarter, Chicago’s clock mismanagement dashed their hopes. Williams was sacked at Detroit’s 41-yard line with 30 seconds left, leaving no time for a final play despite having a timeout.
“I don’t have a microphone, so there’s no communication with the coach there,” Williams said postgame. “We could’ve called a timeout, but if we hit that play, no one would question it.”
Key Moments and Takeaways
- Lions Defense Steps Up: Detroit’s defense allowed just 32 yards across Chicago’s first four drives, stifling any momentum early.
- Costly Mistake: Jameson Williams’ unsportsmanlike conduct penalty in the fourth quarter nearly proved disastrous, pushing Detroit out of field goal range. The receiver apologized to the team after the game.
- Thanksgiving Redemption: Detroit snapped a seven-game Thanksgiving losing streak, bringing a festive atmosphere to Ford Field.
- Injury Woes: Lions linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez left with a potentially serious knee injury, while the Bears’ Roschon Johnson exited with a concussion.
Historical Context and What’s Next
The Lions, riding high on a historic season, are preparing for a critical NFC North clash against the Green Bay Packers next Thursday. With playoff aspirations firmly in sight, Detroit remains focused on maintaining their momentum despite mounting injuries.
The Bears (4-8), meanwhile, face a long road ahead. With six straight losses, including multiple one-score heartbreakers, Chicago is struggling to close out games. Head coach Matt Eberflus has now won just 22.7% of contests decided by seven points or fewer, raising questions about the team’s ability to perform in tight situations.
As Detroit eyes further milestones, Thursday’s win marked a mix of dominance and lessons in resilience, underscoring their transformation into an NFC powerhouse.
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