Detroit Lions Seek Redemption Against Dallas Cowboys After Last Season’s Controversial Loss

The Detroit Lions are set to face off against the Dallas Cowboys this Sunday in what promises to be a highly charged rematch, following a narrow 20-19 loss last season marred by a controversial penalty. The penalty, which involved a miscommunication regarding an eligible player, was pivotal in hindering the Lions’ comeback efforts, allowing the Cowboys an advantage that eventually helped them secure a division win and the two-seed in the NFC playoffs.

The Lions, now holding a 3-1 record after their recent bye week, are looking to turn the tide against the Cowboys, who currently stand at 3-2. Despite the lingering memory of last year’s contentious call, Lions’ star pass rusher emphasized that the team is focused on the present, stating, “As controversial as last year was, it was last year. So I think we’re very hopeful and we’re all just ready to go over there, and we’re on a mission this year. We’re not going to let the past define us.”

Quarterback Jared Goff also reiterated the sentiment of moving forward rather than dwelling on past grievances. “No. It’s a different team,” Goff commented when asked about any motivation for revenge. “But it wasn’t like… we got screwed intentionally. I think it was just a mistake that the officials made and it happens. That type of stuff happens and you move on, but no, I don’t think we take it personally.”

Historically, the Cowboys have had the upper hand against the Lions, winning their last five encounters from 2016 to 2023. Dallas’ quarterback, Dak Prescott, boasts an undefeated record against Detroit, which is one of the best in his career alongside his performances against Pittsburgh and Cincinnati.

The Lions last secured a victory over the Cowboys in Week 8 of the 2013 NFL season with a thrilling 31-30 win. In the closing moments of that game, they managed to take the lead with a one-yard rush touchdown by their then quarterback Matthew Stafford.

In anticipation of the upcoming battle, Lions head coach Dan Campbell mentioned the importance of finding internal motivation for every game. “You can always find something (to motivate you). To me, you always find a nugget, it doesn’t matter who you’re playing. There are reasons behind why you want to win, and you find what those are and they’re different every week,” Campbell stated, emphasizing the need to “play a clean game.”