Detroit Lions Don’t Rest Starters, Secure 40-34 Victory Over San Francisco in Thrilling Showdown
Detroit Lions Don’t Rest Starters, Secure 40-34 Victory Over San Francisco in Thrilling Showdown
January 25, 2025 — Detroit, MI
In a gutsy decision that paid off, the Detroit Lions defied expectations by keeping their starters on the field for the full game against the San Francisco 49ers, securing a thrilling 40-34 victory at Ford Field. With both teams already clinching playoff berths, many anticipated Detroit might rest key players, but the Lions instead came out firing on all cylinders, securing a statement win in front of an electric home crowd.
The high-stakes game was packed with drama, showcasing why both teams are primed for postseason runs. The 49ers, already one of the most formidable defenses in the league, struggled to contain Detroit’s potent offense. Quarterback Jared Goff played with a chip on his shoulder, throwing for 336 yards and three touchdowns, including a remarkable 62-yard connection with wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, who finished the day with 145 yards and two scores.
“We’re not just here to make the playoffs,” Goff said after the game. “We want to keep proving we belong, and that starts with playing every game like it’s the biggest one.”
The Lions’ defense, which has been one of the most improved units in the league this season, came up clutch when needed. San Francisco’s quarterback Brock Purdy threw for 292 yards and two touchdowns, but his fourth-quarter interception — a pick by Lions safety Kerby Joseph — sealed the game for Detroit. Joseph’s timely interception came with just under two minutes remaining and thwarted a potential game-tying drive.
Despite the 49ers’ offensive firepower, Detroit’s defense showed resilience throughout the contest. Linebacker Alex Anzalone had a standout game, contributing with 12 tackles and a crucial sack on Purdy late in the third quarter. Lions head coach Dan Campbell, never one to shy away from bold decisions, stood by his strategy to keep his starters in for the full game.
“We’re not the type of team that rests on its laurels,” Campbell said. “We came into this season with a mission, and we’re not slowing down now. I believe in these guys, and today they showed exactly why.”
San Francisco’s head coach, Kyle Shanahan, was gracious in defeat but expressed frustration with the missed opportunities. “We didn’t execute well in key moments. We had a chance to tie the game, but we just couldn’t make the plays when it mattered most,” Shanahan said.
The victory moves the Lions to 12-5 on the season, solidifying their playoff positioning, while San Francisco drops to 13-4, still holding a top seed in the NFC. Detroit now heads into the playoffs with momentum, having sent a loud and clear message: they’re ready to contend for the ultimate prize.
