The Detroit Lions achieved a commanding 44-22 victory over the Washington Commanders, showcasing an impressive performance led by quarterback Jared Goff and running back Jahmyr Gibbs. This win, witnessed by President Donald Trump, marked a significant rebound for the Lions after a previous defeat.
In a game held in Landover, Maryland, Goff delivered three touchdown passes, while Gibbs scored three times, contributing to Detroit”s early 22-point lead that set the tone for the match. With Trump attending, becoming the first sitting U.S. president at a regular-season NFL game since 1978, the atmosphere was electric.
The Lions, now with a record of 6-3, established dominance from the outset and never relinquished control. In stark contrast, the Commanders, suffering their fifth consecutive loss, struggled without their key players, including injured quarterback Jayden Daniels and star wide receiver Terry McLaurin.
Despite the adjustments made to their coaching staff, including moving defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. to the sidelines, Washington”s defense was unable to contain the Lions” offensive onslaught. Goff completed 25 of 33 passes for 320 yards, with touchdowns thrown to Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jameson Williams.
Gibbs made a significant impact on the ground, rushing for 142 yards on 15 carries, including scoring runs of 13 and 43 yards. Williams also had a productive day, catching six passes for 119 yards. This victory maintained the Lions” streak of avoiding back-to-back losses, a trend that has persisted since October 2022.
Following a disappointing performance against the Minnesota Vikings, Lions” head coach Dan Campbell appeared to take more control of the game strategy, frequently utilizing a play sheet and communicating with his players during drives. The absence of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who left for a head coaching position with the Chicago Bears, has shifted responsibilities to John Morton in Detroit.
The Commanders found themselves trailing 32-10 early in the second half, marking another uncompetitive outing. Frustration among fans grew, leading many to leave the game early, including Trump, who made a brief appearance on the broadcast.
The injury struggles continued for Washington as Daniels sat out again due to a dislocated elbow, leaving Marcus Mariota to fill in as quarterback. Mariota managed to complete 16 of 22 passes for 213 yards and two touchdowns, but was hampered by the absence of key receivers.
In terms of injuries, the Lions faced setbacks as well, with center Graham Glasgow sidelined due to back issues and cornerback Terrion Arnold leaving with a concussion. The Commanders also dealt with injuries to several players, including cornerback Trey Amos and running back Chris Rodriguez Jr.
Looking ahead, the Commanders will travel to Madrid to face the Miami Dolphins, while the Lions are set to challenge the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles next Sunday night.
