The Detroit Lions staged an entertaining Monday Night Football comeback in San Francisco against the 49ers with defensive back Kerby Joseph among Detroit’s top performers.
Joseph snagged his ninth interception of the season and second of the game against 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy in the fourth quarter, setting off a celebration that fans of the 1990s era will instantly recognize.
Joseph wiggled his neck forward and backward in rapid succession in a similar fashion to former 49ers safety Merton Hanks, who became famous for his unique celebration.
“That’s the Merton Hanks dance there, I know that one,” ESPN announcer and former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman said on the broadcast.
“We would play San Francisco and he got a few (interceptions) on me, I recognize that,” Aikman added.
The Lions’ defense surrendered 21 first half points to the 49ers as Detroit trailed 21-13 heading into halftime.
Coach Dan Campbell’s team adjusted at halftime, storming out to an 18-point third quarter while giving up seven points to Kyle Shanahan’s team.
By the time the dust settled, the Lions had secured a 40-34 win over the team that beat them in the NFC Championship Game on January 28, 2024, bookending their year with their 14th win of the 2024-2025 season, a franchise record.
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