Thursday, November 28, 2013

Thanksgiving Football Afterword: Lions vs Packers

Calvin Johnson had six catches for more than 100 yards and a touchdown,
helping Detroit beat their NFC North rivals for just the second time in his career.

Cory Puffett

Did Green Bay lose this game? Or did Detroit win it?

During the first half, it felt like it would be more correct to say that the Packers were losing the game. The Lions turned the ball over three times on their first four drives. Lions punter Sam Martin even gave the Packers the ball on the 40 when one of his kickoffs bounced out of bounds.

Green Bay failed to take advantage though and trailed 17-10 at halftime.

Over the course of the second half, however, it became increasing clear that Detroit was doing more to win the game than Green Bay was to lose it. Matt Flynn rarely had a clean pocket after his first drive thanks to a great effort by the Lions’ defensive line. Good coverage off the line by Detroit’s secondary meant Flynn couldn’t get rid of the ball before the pocket collapsed on him.

Detroit’s offense was rolling all day. Once they cut out the turnovers, there was no stopping Matt Stafford, Reggie Bush and Joique Bell. After throwing four interceptions last week, Stafford had a better day, throwing for 330 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions.

Reggie Bush carried 20 times for 117 yards and a touchdown. Bell wasn’t far behind, getting 19 carries for 94 yards and a score.

Aaron Rodgers cannot come back soon enough. Green Bay has struggled mightily in his absence. Including his last start, in which he played less than a quarter, Green Bay is 0-3-1 in their last four games and are hanging on to their playoff hopes by the slimmest of margins. With their next game 10 days away, everyone within the organization and fan base is hopefully that Rodgers will be ready to take the field against the Falcons.

After losing two straight, Detroit’s big win puts them back in control of their destiny within the NFC North. It was the Lions’ first Thanksgiving win since a 22-14 victory over Green Bay on November 27, 2003. It was also just Detroit’s second victory in their last 17 against Green Bay.

Final Score:
Green Bay Packers – 10
Detroit Lions – 40

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