The Detroit Lions defeated the Green Bay Packers in a thrilling NFC North showdown on Dec. 5, 2024, clinching their playoff spot with a 34-31 victory. Jared Goff led the Lions with a masterful performance, completing 32 of 41 passes for 283 yards and three touchdowns, including two to Tim Patrick. Running back David Montgomery added a rushing touchdown, while kicker Jake Bates sealed the win with a 35-yard field goal as time expired.
In all, Josh Jacobs paced Green Bay with three rushing touchdowns on 18 carries for 66 yards. Jordan Love was a mediocre 12-for-20 for 206 yards and a touchdown, but a fumble from Christian Watson disrupted the Packers’ rhythm. Although it took a 21-17 lead in the third quarter, Green Bay could not stem the tide of Detroit’s relentless offense.
Detroit’s defense came up with huge plays, including a recovery of Watson’s fumble by David Long Jr., to set up crucial scoring drives. The Lions extended their winning streak to 11 games and tightened their grip on the NFC North, while the Packers dropped to 9-4 and their fight for a playoff berth grew more intense.
