Historic Start: The Lions’ win on Thursday marks a franchise-best 11-1 start to the season, with a 10-game win
streak tying the franchise record set in 1934. This victory keeps them at the top of the NFC and NFC North, having won all three division games this year.
Controversial Call: Lions cornerback Kindle Vildor was penalized for pass interference on a 4th & 14 with under a minute left, even though the pass was nowhere near the receiver, and Bears quarterback Caleb Williams was scrambling on a Hail Mary attempt. Lions fans expressed frustration over the call.
“Honestly, I didn’t have a problem with the coverage,” said Lions head coach Dan Campbell. “I thought they were both competing for the ball, and I liked the way he played it.”
Special Teams Star: Punter Jack Fox’s performance was pivotal, especially his 61-yard punt late in the fourth quarter that pinned the Bears at their 1-yard line for their final drive. Fox had two punts with a 50-yard net, both inside the Bears’ 20.
Pass Defense: Detroit’s secondary, missing veteran cornerback Carlton Davis III, still managed to hold up well against Chicago. Despite Caleb Williams’ three second-half touchdown passes, he completed just 20-of-39 attempts. The Lions’ secondary has now limited opponents to under a 60% completion rate for six straight games, their longest streak since 2000.
Sewell’s Versatility: Rarely do we see a starting right tackle in the stat sheet for a sack, but Penei Sewell showed up in that category after the Lions ran a trick play where he was intended to throw. When the play didn’t develop, Sewell ran, stiff-arming a defender before being pushed out for a 1-yard loss. Sewell has a strong arm, and while it wasn’t on display Thursday, he’s often seen practicing throws.
Muhammad’s Impact: Edge rusher Al-Quadin Muhammad stepped up in a short-handed defensive line, contributing a sack, tackle for loss, and pass defended. Depending on the severity of injuries to Josh Paschal (knee) and Levi Onwuzurike (hamstring), Muhammad may have a larger role moving forward.
Gibbs’ Milestone: Jahmyr Gibbs, in his second season, rushed for
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