The Detroit Lions needed a strong response after their Week 2 loss, and they delivered with a 20-13 win over the Arizona Cardinals. Here are the ten biggest takeaways from the game:
1. Goff’s Redemption
Jared Goff came out firing in the first half, completing all 12 of his passes for 137 yards and two touchdowns. He looked poised and in control, giving fans the bounce-back performance they had hoped for. Although he threw a pick in the second half, Goff still finished strong, completing 18-of-23 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns. His late-game scramble was key in sealing the victory, marking a major improvement after two rough weeks to start the season.
2. Defense Steps Up
The Lions defense continued to impress, shutting down a Cardinals team that had been among the best in the league on third downs. Detroit held Arizona to just 277 yards and limited them to 1-for-9 on third-down conversions. This defense looks solid, though they still need to work on reducing penalties and keeping players healthy.
3. Ground Game Dominates
The Lions’ game plan was clear—establish the run, and they executed it flawlessly. David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs combined for 109 rushing yards and a touchdown in the first half alone. The Lions kept pounding the ground game in the second half, finishing with 188 total rushing yards. Montgomery racked up 106 yards and a touchdown, while Gibbs added 83 yards. This two-headed rushing attack looks dangerous.
4. O-Line Bodyguard Moment
David Montgomery had run so effectively throughout the game that the Lions’ offensive line practically carried him like a bodyguard in the fourth quarter. They’ve been physically dominant, helping to secure the win late in the game.
David Montgomery going O-Line surfin'#DETvsAZ | 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/cuyXM0C8s5
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) September 22, 2024
5. Linebacker Depth Proves Crucial
The Lions went into this game without Alex Anzalone, who was in concussion protocol, and then lost Derrick Barnes in the second quarter to injury. Despite these setbacks, Detroit’s deep linebacker corps stepped up, proving that their decision to carry extra linebackers on the roster was the right call.
6. Cardinals’ Social Media Misstep
In a surprising twist, the Arizona Cardinals’ social media team posted a picture of Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker during the third quarter. However, they didn’t realize Booker was sporting a Lions hat—he’s a known Detroit fan. The Cardinals quickly deleted the tweet, but not before the Lions’ social media team capitalized on the mistake, playfully mocking them online.
Whoops. 😆 pic.twitter.com/CWqkx8dFiB
— Colton Wesley (@CWesleyDJC) September 22, 2024
7. Hook and Ladder Success
The Lions continued to find success with the hook and ladder play, a bit of a playground classic that seems to work for them time and time again. It’s become one of their go-to plays, and they should keep using it as long as it delivers results.
Little hook n ladder shenanigans for the score 😈#DETvsAZ | 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/EBUcoJeBn5
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) September 22, 2024
8. Kerby Joseph’s Game-Changing Plays
Kerby Joseph made two critical plays in the third quarter. First, he came up with a touchdown-saving interception in the end zone. Then, he tackled Kyler Murray on a crucial play that prevented the Cardinals from converting a first down. Joseph’s timely plays were a big factor in the Lions’ defensive success.
9. Missed Opportunities on Turnovers
While the Lions forced multiple turnovers—a key interception and two fourth-down stops—they failed to capitalize on them. Detroit punted twice and turned the ball over on downs after these extra possessions. Taking advantage of turnovers will be key if they want to win more comfortably in future games.
10. Jack Fox Deserves a Game Ball
Lions punter Jack Fox had an outstanding game, consistently pinning the Cardinals deep in their own territory. His performance in flipping the field position was invaluable, and he’s quietly putting together an All-Pro caliber season.
With these improvements and a stronger sense of team identity, the Lions are showing signs of turning the corner and potentially making some noise this season.
