The Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Rams were unstoppable offensively in the first half, combining for 519 yards, the most of any half this season, and 41 points.
But the Rams made key adjustments, limiting the Lions’ deficit to about 10 points in the second half, and fought back from a 10-point deficit to win 41-34.
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This game is about more than just bragging rights for former Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford and former Rams quarterback Jared Goff. It could also determine both teams’ playoff trajectories.
Los Angeles scored 17 points in the third quarter, including a 26-yard touchdown pass from Stafford to tight end Colby Parkinson (which probably shouldn’t count) and an 11-yard touchdown run by Blake Colum. Jared Goff and the Lions continued to apply pressure but were unable to regain the lead.
With Sunday’s win, the Rams continue to control their destiny in the NFC West. The Seattle Seahawks defeated the Indianapolis Colts, but the Rams remain in the tiebreaker thanks to their early-season win. The Rams will face the Seahawks on Thursday, with the winner taking the division lead.
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While the Lions have yet to be eliminated from playoff contention, their path becomes more challenging after the Bears’ win over the Browns and the Packers’ lead in the NFC North. The Lions will face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.
Amon-Ra St. Brown finished the game with 12 catches for 150 yards after catching nine for 126 yards and two touchdowns in the first half. Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs was also stuck, rushing for 34 yards on 12 carries. The Lions are 0-4 on the season when Gibbs rushes for less than 40 yards.
On offense, the Rams were led by wide receiver Puka Nacua, who caught nine catches for 181 yards and ignited the Lions’ tired secondary. Rams tight end Colby Parkinson also had five catches for 75 yards and two touchdowns.
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Rams running backs Kyren Williams and Blake Collum combined for three touchdowns. Williams sealed the game with a crucial goal just before the two-minute warning. He finished the game with 78 yards on 15 carries.