DETROIT, MICHIGAN – Jahmyr Gibbs and a rejuvenated Detroit Lions defense delivered a statement performance Thursday night, helping the team stay in the playoff hunt with a 44-30 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Gibbs scored three touchdowns, including a decisive 13-yard run with just 2:19 remaining, sealing the win for Detroit.
The Lions’ defense, which had struggled in recent weeks, sacked Dak Prescott five times, recorded two interceptions, and recovered a fumble. Jared Goff, who threw for 309 yards and a touchdown, noted the team’s renewed urgency. Detroit improved to 8-5, avoiding consecutive losses for the first time in over three years, and boosted its playoff probability to 54%. Coach Dan Campbell praised the team, calling it “the best game we played all year.”
Dallas, which entered the game on a three-game winning streak, saw its top-ranked offense contained and had to rely heavily on kicker Brandon Aubrey, who made five field goals, including three of 55 yards or longer. Prescott finished 31 of 47 for 376 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions, while losing top receiver CeeDee Lamb to a concussion in the third quarter. George Pickens struggled to fill the gap, catching only five of nine targets for 37 yards.
Detroit’s offense was balanced, with Gibbs adding seven receptions for 77 yards and 43 rushing yards on 12 carries. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams contributed key plays and blocks, helping maintain momentum. On defense, Al-Quadin Muhammad recorded a career-high three sacks, and Jack Campbell added a sack and forced fumble, showing the Lions’ renewed ability to pressure the quarterback.
Despite Dallas closing to within three points twice in the fourth quarter, a 37-yard Goff pass to St. Brown set up Gibbs’ game-clinching touchdown. Detroit now heads into its next game against the Los Angeles Rams on Dec. 14, while Dallas will host Minnesota on the same day.
Injuries:
- Cowboys: Jadeveon Clowney, Trevon Diggs, Tyler Guyton inactive.
- Lions: Brian Branch (ankle), Thomas Harper (concussion), Kerby Joseph, Kalif Raymond inactive; Brock Wright placed on injured reserve.