Detroit Lions finish season strong, defeat depleted Packers 35-11

The Detroit Lions were able to finish their season on a positive note, defeating their NFC North rivals, the Green Bay Packers, 35-11.

Heading into Week 17, the Detroit Lions had next to nothing to play for. Out of playoff contention due to the loss they suffered the previous Sunday to the Cincinnati Bengals, the Lions were playing for pride. And they ended their season on a high note, defeating the Green Bay Packers 35-11 in Detroit.

Despite the victory, and posting his third winning season in four years, it appears that head coach Jim Caldwell has likely coached his last game for the Lions. According to various sources, Detroit is expected to fire Caldwell soon. The 62-year old coach took the helm of the Lions back in 2014 and has made the playoffs twice during his four-year tenure. But his inability to actually win in the postseason appears to be his undoing.

As for the game itself, quarterback Matthew Stafford shined. The NFL highest paid player completed 20 of his 29 passes for 323 yards and three touchdowns. His top wide receiver, Golden Tate, caught seven passes for 104 yards and a score. Fellow wide receivers Marvin Jones Jr. and rookie Kenny Golladay also posted receiving touchdowns.

Unfortunately, the Lions’ issues with their running game continued. Rookie running back Tion Green rushed for a team-high 21 yards on nine carries. Ameer Abdullah ran the ball eight times for 18 yards and a score. It’s clear that Detroit is going to need to make some major upgrades at the running back position this offseason.

Defensively, it was once again the Ziggy Ansah show in Detroit. Attempting to prove he is worthy of a long-term deal this offseason, the upcoming free agent posted his third 3.0 sack game of the season. Finishing the year with 12.0 total sacks, the Lions’ premier pass rusher put an exclamation mark on the season Sunday and likely earned himself a lot of money in 2018 and beyond.

Next: Sources says Jim Caldwell is done in Detroit

Linebacker Jarrad Davis capped off a terrific rookie season leading the Detroit Lions with 12 total tackles and an interception. Also posting a pick was Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay, who recorded his eighth interception of the season, tops in the NFL.