Detroit Lions show their true grit in loss to Falcons, 30-26

The Detroit Lions proved their true grit in Week Three, standing toe-to-toe with the Atlanta Falcons in a last minute defeat, 30-26.

In what will likely be one of the most controversial endings in Detroit Lions’ franchise history, the Motor City suffered a heartbreaking loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday afternoon, 30-26.

Down four points late in the fourth quarter, the Lions’ offense drove nearly 89 yards on 11 plays and were inches from the goal line. But a called touchdown by wide receiver Golden Tate was overturned and the subsequent 10-second run off sealed the victory for the Falcons, and left the Lions’ and their hometown fans in shock.

But the battle proved this Lions’ team can stand toe-to-toe with the best the NFL has to offer. And although Detroit might have lost the game, they certainly won a ton of respect across the league.

Lions’ quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for 264 yards and one touchdown in the loss. Starting running back Ameer Abdullah again had a tough day on the ground, rushing for 47 yards on 14 carries. Abdullah also caught three passes for 39 yards.

Detroit wide receiver Golden Tate lead the team in receptions with seven for 58 yards and a score. And his final catch nearly won the game for the Lions.

Detroit’s defense was able to force Atlanta’s starting quarterback Matt Ryan to throw three interceptions. Cornerback Darius Slay was responsible for two picks himself. And safety Glover Quin had an interception that he returned for a defensive touchdown.

Both safety Miles Killebrew and linebacker Tahir Whitehead had seven solo tackles each. And defensive ends Jeremiah Valoaga and Alex Zettel both recorded sacks.

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Up next for the 2-1 Detroit Lions, the team will head to Minnesota to face their longtime divisional rivals, the Vikings, in the all new U.S. Bank Stadium, Sunday, October 1st at 1:00 p.m. EDT.