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Lions Roar Past Rams in Thrilling Overtime Opener

Lions Roar Past Rams in Thrilling Overtime Opener
  • PublishedSeptember 9, 2024

The Detroit Lions kicked off their season in style, defeating the Los Angeles Rams in a thrilling overtime battle, 26-20. The game showcased a dramatic comeback by the Rams, followed by a late surge by the Lions, culminating in a decisive overtime victory, Fox News reports.

The Lions jumped out to an early lead, with Jared Goff finding Jameson Williams for a 52-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter, putting Detroit up 17-3. However, the Rams, led by Matthew Stafford, fought back with a strong second half performance.

Stafford orchestrated an 11-play, 70-yard drive that ended with a Kyren Williams touchdown, bringing the Rams within seven points. A 26-yard field goal by Joshua Karty followed by a 9-yard touchdown pass to Cooper Kupp tied the game late in the fourth quarter.

The Lions answered with a drive that brought them into field goal range, and Jake Bates nailed a 32-yard field goal to tie the game at 20-20, sending the game into overtime.

In the extra period, the Lions capitalized on their first possession, with David Montgomery finding the end zone after a series of runs and a key pass to Jahmyr Gibbs. Montgomery finished the game with 91 rushing yards, while Gibbs added 40 yards on the ground and a touchdown.

Goff, who completed 18 of 28 passes for 217 yards, a touchdown, and an interception, was instrumental in the Lions’ victory. Williams had a standout game with five catches for 121 yards.

Stafford had a strong performance for the Rams, finishing with 317 passing yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Kupp, stepping up in the absence of injured wide receiver Puka Nacua, led the Rams’ receiving corps with 14 catches for 110 yards and a touchdown.