The Detroit Lions were attempting to make their first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history. After the first half against the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship, this looked like a real possibility. Unfortunately, the Lions lost a heartbreaker, and Detroit will have to wait a little longer for that coveted Super Bowl appearance.
Detroit Lions Blow 17-Point Lead
Early in the third quarter, the Detroit Lions were leading the San Francisco 49ers 24-7. Yet, Detroit was not able to prevail.
Momentum started to turn when the Lions went for it on 4th down while in field goal territory while up 24-10. Unfortunately, the Lions failed to convert this. The 49ers took advantage of this immediately with a spectacular catch by WR Brandon Aiyuk. He then caught a touchdown pass on that same drive to make it a 24-17 game.
After that, RB Jahmyr Gibbs fumbled the football deep in Lions territory. That allowed the 49ers to score another quick touchdown. San Francisco scored 27 straight points in this game.
When they were up 27-24, Detroit faced another 4th and 3 situation in field goal territory. Again, Dan Campbell chose to go for it. Once again, the Lions failed to convert. That essentially iced the game, as the 49ers scored an insurance touchdown after that to hold off a late rally by the Lions. The final score was 34-31.
Detroit Lions Moving Forward
Now, the Lions have to watch the 49ers advance to the Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs. While reaching the NFC Championship was farther than most people expected the Lions to go this season, it still has to be a disappointment knowing they were so close to a historical Super Bowl appearance. Now, Campbell and the Lions will have to try and run it back in 2024.
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