Detroit, MI – For the second time in as many years the Detroit Lions have won the NFC North title thanks to their 31-9 win over Minnesota at Ford Field Sunday night. The victory also secures the #1 seed in the NFC playoffs and a first round bye in the postseason.
Detroit running back Jahmyr Gibbs finished the night with 23 carries for 139 and three rushing scores. Gibbs also had 5 catches for 31 yards and a touchdown. Jared Goff was 26/32 passing for 227 yards and one touchdown with two interceptions.
The Lions depleted defense stepped up in a big way Sunday night, only surrendering three field goals in the win. Vikings QB Sam Darnold finished 18/40 with 166 yards, zero TD’s and no interceptions. Minnesota was 3/13 on third downs, and 0/3 on 4th downs.
The Detroit offense was 5/12 on third downs, and 2/4 on fourth downs on the night.
The loss sends the Vikings to Los Angeles to play the Rams in the NFC Wildcard round next Monday night. Detroit earns a bye week, and will host an NFC Divisional game.