Expect to hear a lot about the Dallas Cowboys this week. When the most popular team in the NFL suffers a humiliating loss at home, it becomes a major talking point.
However, Sunday’s game may have revealed more about the Detroit Lions than the Cowboys.
The Lions delivered an impressive performance, dominating the Cowboys 47-9, even though they suffered a significant setback with the loss of defensive end Aidan Hutchinson to a serious leg injury. Despite this, Detroit’s offense demonstrated why it could be considered the best in the NFL. They executed their game plan flawlessly, while the defense stifled Dallas throughout the match. The Lions emerged as genuine Super Bowl contenders, which is no surprise to anyone.
Conversely, the Cowboys appeared far from being serious contenders, and the most significant takeaway from the game is the Lions’ potential.
Lions’ Motivation for Revenge
The Lions came into this game with a chip on their shoulder from last season, believing a win was unjustly taken from them due to an officiating error involving a misidentified eligible offensive lineman on a critical 2-point conversion. On the very first play of Sunday’s game, the Lions sent Dan Skipper in to report as eligible, a clever nod to last year’s controversial loss.
The Lions played as if they were seeking revenge. They executed a flea-flicker play, with Amon-Ra St. Brown pitching the ball back to Jared Goff after a reverse, resulting in a 52-yard touchdown to Sam LaPorta. Later, they attempted to pass to offensive tackle Taylor Decker at the goal line—a callback to last season’s overturned 2-point conversion attempt—though this attempt fell flat.
Late in the third quarter, leading 37-9, they even tried a hook-and-ladder play involving offensive tackle Penei Sewell, which was unfortunately called back due to a penalty. The Lions were clearly intent on making a statement, seemingly unconcerned about the Cowboys’ feelings, especially on Jerry Jones’ birthday.
The Cowboys did themselves no favors either. Dak Prescott threw a crucial interception in the end zone when the Cowboys were trailing 7-3, marking a significant turning point in the game. Ultimately, it felt inevitable that the Lions would dominate the Cowboys.
Lions Face a Tough Challenge Ahead
Next week, the Lions will face the undefeated Minnesota Vikings, a game that could be pivotal in deciding the NFC North champion. Playing without Hutchinson will undoubtedly impact that matchup and all future games until he returns.
However, the Lions have shown they can win shootouts. Their versatile offense, bolstered by a strong offensive line, allows them to effectively utilize running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. Jared Goff also showcased his skills, throwing for 315 yards and three touchdowns on Sunday, contributing to the team’s total of 492 yards.
While the Lions have one loss on their record, they have consistently looked like one of the NFL’s elite teams this season. Next week, they’ll have the opportunity to prove whether they are the best team in the NFC North.
