The Lions take down the Vikings: Detroit secures NFC North title and top seed
The Detroit Lions are gearing up for the playoffs.
On Sunday night, Detroit achieved a significant milestone by defeating the Minnesota Vikings 31-9 at home. This victory secured the No. 1 seed in the NFC, ensuring they have home-field advantage and a first-round bye, bringing them just three wins away from claiming their first Super Bowl title ever.
Only two more wins are needed to achieve this, which would mark another historic first for the franchise.
A key factor in this achievement is Jahmyr Gibbs, who played a crucial role in leading the Lions’ offense to triumph at Ford Field. The second-year running back, nicknamed “Sonic,” had an outstanding game, scoring four touchdowns and rushing for 139 yards on 23 carries, along with five receptions for 31 yards.
The Vikings struggled to respond and failed to reach the end zone. The spotlight will undoubtedly shine on Sam Darnold, now leading the wild-card-bound Vikings, especially after a frustrating night where he completed only 18 of 41 passes. Once known for “seeing ghosts,” he was unable to connect with receivers accurately during the game.
Missed opportunities for touchdowns will linger in the minds of the Vikings as they quickly prepare for a wild-card match against the Los Angeles Rams next Monday. These errors could jeopardize a successful season for Minnesota and potentially have financial implications for their quarterback.
In the meantime, the NFC playoff race is centered in Detroit, where the Lions are riding a wave of momentum. Despite facing numerous injuries lately, stemming from having played 13 consecutive games after a week 5 bye, the time off provided by their first-round bye will help them recover.
After an exhausting 16,320 minutes of gameplay throughout the 272 games of the 2024 NFL regular season, the playoff picture is now complete with only 14 teams remaining, all aiming for the same goal.
Here’s how the final regular-season matchup unfolded for Detroit:
Lions vs. Vikings game highlights
Lions secure NFC’s top seed
The Lions wrapped up the NFL regular season with a commanding 31-9 win over the Vikings at Ford Field, earning the top seed in the NFC along with home-field advantage and a bye in the first round.
Lions 31, Vikings 9: Jahmyr Gibbs scores fourth TD
Jahmyr Gibbs is likely preparing for an exciting week ahead. The running back has propelled the Lions to the No. 1 seed, which includes home-field advantage and a crucial week off. He amassed 23 carries for 139 yards and scored three rushing touchdowns, alongside five receptions for 31 yards and one receiving touchdown. The second-year back is indeed a force to be reckoned with as the game nears its end.
Lions 24, Vikings 9: Jahmyr Gibbs scores third TD, increases lead
Running backs may often be overlooked, but they’re proving their worth. Jahmyr Gibbs helps secure the No. 1 seed with his third touchdown of the game, a 13-yard rush that extends the Lions’ lead to 15 points with 13 minutes remaining.
Will Reichard misses field goal
Here’s a moment of tension for Minnesota. With no penalty called for pass interference, Kevin O’Connell opts for a field goal attempt, but Will Reichard misses, shooting wide right. The rookie kicker has had a challenging night, with a prior kick going out of bounds right before halftime, allowing the Lions to seize the momentum.
Lions 17, Vikings 9: Jahmyr Gibbs’ second TD strengthens lead
Detroit is demonstrating how to convert vital plays on fourth down. They successfully convert on fourth-and-2, with Jared Goff connecting with Jahmyr Gibbs for a touchdown. The recent points missed by Minnesota are significant, and they need a response before Detroit can solidify their advantage.
This marked Gibbs’ 18th touchdown of the season, setting a new team record.
Lions 10, Vikings 9: Will Reichard FG narrows gap
This isn’t a replay of the first half, but the Vikings capitalize on a Jared Goff interception, leading to another field goal by Will Reichard. This, time from 51 yards, brings the score within one point. Reichard will need to keep his kickoffs straight, however.
Terrion Arnold injury update
Terrion Arnold was taken off the field on a cart due to a leg injury. The Lions are quickly running low on defensive players, with him being the latest casualty.
Jared Goff throws another interception
Rather than risk it deep, Jared Goff throws his second interception of the game, giving the Vikings possession back at their own 46-yard line.
Vikings’ turnover on downs to start the second half
The second half mirrored the first for the Vikings. They drive down to the Lions’ 2-yard line, but fail to convert on downs. Sam Darnold could not connect with Jordan Addison on a critical fourth-down play. Despite a promising 58-yard run from Cam Akers going unutilized, the Lions take over from deep in their territory. Minnesota is in a precarious position with their red-zone performance this game.
Lions 10, Vikings 6: Jake Bates scores a FG to finish the half
After a kickoff from Will Reichard went out of bounds, the Lions seized the opportunity to score a field goal. Jake Bates successfully kicked from 48 yards, increasing Detroit’s lead to four points. Minnesota will start the second half with possession but will likely regret missed chances from the first half.
Lions 7, Vikings 6: Will Reichard adds another FG
The Vikings take advantage of another mistake by the Lions, converting a turnover on downs into three points. Minnesota has had difficulty protecting Sam Darnold, which has become a noticeable issue this half. Despite this, they manage another field goal and trail by just one point with 20 seconds remaining in the half.
Lions turnover on downs
The game sees a show of Midwestern courtesy, as the Lions respond to the Vikings’ turnover on downs with one of their own. After an unsuccessful challenge, a pass from Goff is deflected at the line, falling incomplete. The Vikings regain possession at their own 42-yard line.
Lions 7, Vikings 3: Will Reichard gets Minnesota on the scoreboard with a FG
Kevin O’Connell decides to take the points this time. After Sam Darnold misses on two potential touchdown passes to Justin Jefferson in the end zone, the Vikings settle for a field goal. Will Reichard successfully kicks a 25-yard field goal, putting points on the board and serving as a disappointing result for Minnesota. However, the turnover has cost the Lions with just over six minutes left in the first half.
Ivan Pace Jr. intercepts Jared Goff to set up 1st and goal
If you enjoy second chances, you’ll appreciate what just unfolded. Just a few plays after a controversial safety, Jared Goff throws an interception to Ivan Pace Jr., giving the Vikings first-and-goal, providing a chance to rectify their earlier mistake.
Vikings unable to convert on fourth and goal
The Vikings had favorable field position starting at midfield and reached the Detroit 3-yard-line, but that’s as far as they could go. Faced with a choice to kick a field goal or attempt a touchdown, they chose to go for it on fourth down. However, the pass attempt was incomplete, resulting in a turnover on downs for the Lions. This decision may have consequences later if those three points prove crucial for Kevin O’Connell’s squad.
NFL announces schedule for Super Wild Card Weekend
The NFL’s wild-card weekend will showcase two games on Saturday, three on Sunday, and one on Monday night.
The team that loses tonight’s matchup between the Vikings and Lions is set to travel to face the Los Angeles Rams, who clinched the NFC West title, in the Monday night game.
The weekend kicks off with the Los Angeles Chargers against the Houston Texans on Saturday afternoon, followed by an AFC North rivalry clash between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens. — Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz
Vikings fail to respond to Lions’ TD
The Vikings desperately need to reply but fall short. Sam Darnold begins the drive with a significant 17-yard sack and ends it with an errant pass far from T.J. Hockenson. As a result, the Vikings must punt and now rely on their defense to make a crucial stop.
Lions 7, Vikings 0: Jahmyr Gibbs scores first touchdown with 25-yard run
The Lions are heating up like an engine in winter. Jahmyr Gibbs finds the end zone with a 25-yard rushing touchdown, completing a nine-play, 78-yard drive. The Vikings had an opportunity to force the Lions off the field on fourth down, but Jared Goff connected with Jameson Williams to maintain possession. Now, the Vikings face the challenge of playing from behind as the crowd cheers for the player nicknamed “Sonic.”
Vikings fail to take advantage of opening drive
In what has been a well-matched contest, both teams remain scoreless. The Vikings moved the ball effectively but ultimately had to punt. As the first quarter continues, both teams are yet to score in Detroit.
Lions come up short on first drive
The Lions aimed for a quick start, but their initial drive didn’t yield results. They managed to achieve a first down, yet the drive stalled and ended with a punt. Now, it’s Sam Darnold’s time to lead his team down the field.
Lions vs. Vikings kickoff
- Date: Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025
- Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
The Lions and Vikings game will conclude Week 18 of the NFL season with “Sunday Night Football,” kicking off at 8:20 p.m. ET. This matchup marks the final game of the 2024 NFL regular season.
Lions vs. Vikings broadcast details
- Cable TV: NBC
Lions vs. Vikings predictions and picks
The YSL News Sports team shares their insights on how the Week 18 “Sunday Night Football” clash between the Vikings and Lions may unfold:
- Lorenzo Reyes: Lions 33, Vikings 28
- Richard Morin: Vikings 28, Lions 26
- Jordan Mendoza: Lions 34, Vikings 31
Lions vs. Vikings live streaming options
- Livestream: Peacock; Fubo
You can catch “Sunday Night Football” streaming on NBC’s platform, Peacock. Additionally, fans can enjoy the final “SNF” game through a subscription with Fubo.
Watch “Sunday Night Football” with a subscription to Peacock
Vikings inactive players against the Lions
- QB Brett Rypien (emergency third QB)
- CB Fabian Moreau
- LB Calvin Munson
- DL Levi Drake Rodriguez
- C Dan Feeney
- OT Walter Rouse
- LB Pat Jones II
Lions inactive players against the Vikings
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- RB David Montgomery
- QB Teddy Bridgewater (emergency third QB)
- OL Giovanni Manu
- OL Kayode Awosika
- OL Colby Sorsdal
- DL Jonah
- Williams
- DL Brodric Martin
Lions vs. Vikings Odds, Moneyline, Over/Under
The Lions are predicted to beat the Vikings based on the BetMGM NFL odds. If you’re not interested in this matchup, check out expert analyses and top betting suggestions for all NFL games happening this week.
- Spread: Lions (-3)
- Moneyline: Lions (-155); Vikings (+130)
- Over/under: 56.5
Where is Lions vs. Vikings Held?
The Vikings will head north to face the Lions at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan.
Ford Field was the venue for Super Bowl XL during the 2005 season, which the Pittsburgh Steelers won against the Seattle Seahawks.
Additionally, it hosted the 2024 GameAbove Sports Bowl, where Toledo triumphed over Pittsburgh in overtime.
NFC North Standings
- Detroit Lions: 14-2
- Minnesota Vikings: 14-2
- Green Bay Packers: 11-6
- Chicago Bears: 5-12
NFL Playoff Picture
Let’s take a look at the standings in the AFC and NFC as we approach “SNF”:
NFC
- Detroit Lions: 14-2 (NFC North leader)
- Philadelphia Eagles: 14-3 (NFC East champions)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 10-7 (NFC South champions)
- Los Angeles Rams: 10-7 (NFC West champions)
- Minnesota Vikings: 14-2
- Washington Commanders: 12-5
- Green Bay Packers: 11-6
AFC
- Kansas City Chiefs: 15-2 (AFC West champions)
- Buffalo Bills: 13-4 (AFC East champions)
- Baltimore Ravens: 12-5 (AFC North champions)
- Houston Texans: 10-7 (AFC South champions)
- Los Angeles Chargers: 11-6
- Pittsburgh Steelers: 10-7
- Denver Broncos: 10-7
Vikings Super Bowl Odds
The Vikings are just outside the leading contenders for Super Bowl 59 odds heading into Week 18, but their chances could rise significantly with a win that secures the No. 1 seed and a bye.
According to BetMGM, the Vikings are listed at +900 odds to claim this year’s championship. They trail the Baltimore Ravens and Philadelphia Eagles, who are tied at +700, but are ahead of the Green Bay Packers at +1600.
Lions Super Bowl Odds
The Lions remain one of the top favorites for Super Bowl 59 as they enter Week 18. BetMGM gives them +400 odds to win the Lombardi Trophy at the end of the playoffs, making them the second favorite, just behind the Kansas City Chiefs at +375.
Potential Playoff Opponents for the Lions
Depending on the result of their Week 18 game, the Lions could either receive a bye in the first round of the playoffs or travel next week for a wild-card game.
Here’s who they might face in each case:
If they win or tie against the Vikings:
The Lions would clinch the top spot in the NFC and receive a bye, starting their playoff journey in the divisional round against the lowest remaining seed from these teams:
- Los Angeles Rams
- Minnesota Vikings
- Washington Commanders
- Green Bay Packers
If they lose to the Vikings:
Detroit would fall to the No. 5 seed in the NFC and have to travel for a wild-card round game against the No. 4 seed. Their potential opponent in that situation is:
- Los Angeles Rams
Potential Playoff Opponents for the Vikings
The outcome of their Week 18 match could either earn Minnesota a first-round bye or send them to an away playoff game in the wild-card round.
Here’s who the Vikings may face depending on the result:
If they win against the Lions:
The Vikings would secure the No. 1 seed in the NFC and receive a bye through the wild-card round. In the divisional round, they would meet the lowest-seeded remaining team from these options:
- Los Angeles Rams
- Detroit Lions
- Washington Commanders
- Green Bay Packers
If they lose or tie with the Lions:
Minnesota would drop to the No. 5 seed in the NFC and would have to play on the road against the No. 4 seed. Possible opponents include:
- Los Angeles Rams
When Do the NFL Playoffs Begin in 2025?
Start date: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025
The playoff structure remains the same as previous years, with wild-card weekend commencing on Jan. 11. Sunday will feature three games, while the round concludes on Monday, Jan. 13.
NFL Draft 2025 Order Before ‘Sunday Night Football’
Here’s how the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft looks for non-playoff teams as they head into the “SNF” game (the order for picks 19-32 will be determined by playoff results):
- Tennessee Titans: 3-14 record; .523 strength of schedule
- Cleveland Browns: 3-14; .536
- New York Giants: 3-14; .556
- New England Patriots: 4-13; .471
- Jacksonville Jaguars: 4-13; .477
- Las Vegas Raiders: 4-13; .540
- New York Jets: 5-12; .497
- Carolina Panthers: 5-12; .498
- New Orleans Saints: 5-12; .505
- Chicago Bears: 5-12; .554
- San Francisco 49ers: 6-11; .564
- Dallas Cowboys: 7-10; .521
- Miami Dolphins: 8-9; .419
- Indianapolis Colts: 8-9; .456
- Atlanta Falcons: 8-9; .521
- Arizona Cardinals: 8-9; .537
- Cincinnati Bengals: 9-8; .478
- Seattle Seahawks: 10-7; .498
Which NFL Team Has the Most Super Bowl Wins?
The New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers are tied for the highest number of Super Bowl victories, with six each.
The Lions are one of four NFL teams that have never made it to a Super Bowl but had a dominant presence before the Super Bowl existed, winning four NFL titles, including three in the 1950s.
The Vikings have contested four Super Bowls but have yet to claim a Lombardi Trophy, with their last appearance in Super Bowl XI during the 1976 season.
NFL franchises with the most Super Bowl wins include:
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- New England Patriots — 6
- Pittsburgh Steelers — 6
- Dallas Cowboys — 5
- San Francisco 49ers — 5
- Green Bay Packers – 4
- Kansas City Chiefs – 4
- New York Giants – 4
