For the first time in 32 years, the Detroit Lions have won a playoff game. They took down the Rams in thrilling fashion, 24-23. While his stats were not out of this world, Jared Goff did exactly what was asked of him, and it led to Detroit leading for the entire game. So could Jared Goff actually bring a Super Bowl to Detroit? Yes, with a little help from Ben Johnson.
From: Luis Sinco (Los Angeles Times)
A Masterclass in Play Calling
Ben Johnson has been the hottest name in the coaching carousel not named Bill Belichick. He declined HC interviews last offseason, but will likely take a job this go around. Johnson will go out on a high note, as he has this offense COOKING. The Lions rank 5th in offensive DVOA and are tied for 5th in EPA/play. These two advanced metrics are the most heavily used when talking about teams. In standard analytics, Detroit is third in total touchdowns scored.
So how does Johnson set up Goff for success? Balance. The Lions use their two running backs, David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs in different run looks to keep the offense from third and long. Montgomery is a perfect goal-line back, and Gibbs gets into space with his elite quickness and elusiveness. Detroit has 27 rushing touchdowns this year, which is first in the NFL. The run game sets up a diverse passing game.
Jared Goff has a myriad of weapons at his disposal. Not only is Gibbs a good runner, but he is dangerous threat after the catch as well. The rookie put together 1200 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns. Sam LaPorta was a top-five tight end as a rookie. LaPorta tallied 889 yards and 10 touchdowns in his first year. And yet, you cannot talk about the Lions' passing attack without mentioning star WR Amon-Ra St. Brown. Number 14 went for 1500 yards and 10 touchdowns, and has had 10 games over 100 yards this season. He's been un-guardable at times this year, and is a reliable option for Goff.
From: Eric Seals (Detroit Free Press)
Lion Tamer
Heading into their playoff game on Sunday, there was a lot of pressure on the Lions. This was the best team they've had years, and fans would be deflated if the season ended in a first-round loss. Thankfully, it didn't. As I stated earlier, the Lions started the game running the ball, creating a balance within the offense. Then, the ball turned to Jared Goff in one of the biggest games of his life. Could he bring a feeling of elation over an entire city? Yes. Goff completed 81.7% of his passes, good for 227 yards and 2 touchdowns. He came up with some massive throws down the stretch, including a 10-yard curl to St. Brown, which ended the Rams' shot at a comeback.
What surprised me the most in this game was the lack of mistakes from Goff. His entire career, Goff would look good for 90% of the game, but make a bone-headed mistake that leads to a loss. Sunday night, the Goofball didn't mess up. He did try, but thankfully the Lions picked up his fumble. When Jared Goff plays a clean game, this offense starts to hum.
Closing Statements
Detroit hosts the Buccaneers on Sunday in the Divisional Round. The Lions are currently six point favorites over Tampa Bay. Assuming they take care of business, Goff and co. will likely go on the road to San Francisco for a trip to the Super Bowl. Do they beat the Niners? Probably not. But Detroit did go 6-3 on the road this year, including a controversial loss to the Cowboys. With Ben Johnson relieving the pressure off of Jared Goff, anything is on the table, including a Super Bowl appearance. Buckle up Detroit fans, because you might see success you never have.
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