Commanders Stun Lions in Playoff Upset, Ending Historic Season

DETROIT, Mich. — The Detroit Lions‘ record-breaking season came to a shocking end Saturday as the sixth-seeded Washington Commanders upset the top-seeded Lions 21-17 in a divisional playoff game at Ford Field. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels led the Commanders with 299 passing yards, two touchdowns, and 51 rushing yards, while the Lions’ turnovers and defensive struggles proved costly.

The Commanders capitalized on four fourth-down conversions and scored 21 points off three Lions turnovers, including a fumble and two interceptions. Detroit’s defense, already missing five starters, lost two more players to injuries during the game and struggled to contain Washington’s offense, allowing 182 rushing yards.

“We knew it was going to be a battle, but we didn’t execute when it mattered most,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said after the game. “Turnovers and missed opportunities cost us.”

The Lions, who finished the regular season with a franchise-best 15-2 record, were undone by their porous defense and uncharacteristic mistakes. Quarterback Jared Goff threw three interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown, and a failed trick play in the fourth quarter sealed their fate.

Washington’s victory marks their first trip to the NFC Championship Game since 1991. They will face either the Philadelphia Eagles or Los Angeles Rams next Sunday. Meanwhile, the Lions face an uncertain offseason, with offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn expected to be top candidates for head coaching vacancies.

Despite the loss, the Lions’ future remains bright. Rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs showcased his star potential with 96 rushing yards, 38 receiving yards, and two touchdowns. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown continued his stellar play with eight catches for 137 yards.

Daniels, the presumptive NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, demonstrated poise and playmaking ability in his playoff debut. “He’s special,” Commanders head coach Ron Rivera said. “Jayden’s composure and talent give us a chance every week.”

The Lions will enter the 2024 season as one of the NFC’s Super Bowl favorites, but history is not on their side. No NFC team that lost in the conference championship game has won the Super Bowl the following season since the Green Bay Packers in 1996.