Many considered the game “meaningless,” but Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell quickly made it clear that his team would be fully committed to winning in Week 17 against the San Francisco 49ers. Despite any lingering motivation from last season’s NFC Championship Game loss, the Lions were determined to give their all.

And they did just that, outscoring the 49ers 27-13 in the second half to secure their 14th win of the season and finish undefeated on the road (8-0). Most importantly, with the crucial Week 18 game against the Minnesota Vikings on the horizon, the Lions escaped without adding any new injuries to their already extensive list.

Here are the standout performers and one major disappointment from the Lions’ Week 17 victory over the 49ers:

Winners:

Jameson Williams
Williams didn’t quite reach 1,000 receiving yards for the season, finishing with five catches for 77 yards, but he scored a touchdown on a hook-and-ladder play and added a rushing touchdown. His development as a more well-rounded receiver was evident, as noted by Troy Aikman during the broadcast.
Jared Goff

Goff had an outstanding performance, completing 26 of 34 passes for 303 yards and three touchdowns, posting a 132.4 passer rating. Since his five-interception game in Week 10 against Houston, he has led the league in passing yards, touchdowns, passer rating, and EPA per dropback.

Jahmyr Gibbs
Gibbs had another solid game, rushing for 117 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries and adding 46 receiving yards on four catches, totaling 163 yards from scrimmage. With David Montgomery out, Gibbs was the focal point of the offense, and the Lions wisely gave him occasional rest to ensure he’s fresh for upcoming games.

Kerby Joseph
Joseph made two crucial interceptions, one after a costly penalty by Brian Branch. His second interception, in the fourth quarter, sealed the win and brought his season total to nine, making him the NFL leader. His timely plays helped prevent the 49ers from gaining momentum in the second half.

Jake Bates
Although Bates had a blocked extra point and another miss, he also nailed two key field goals from 57 and 42 yards. His 42-yard kick was preceded by a memorable moment when he was seen on the sideline stretching in a peculiar position, which quickly became a viral sensation. Bates also set a franchise record for points in a season, making him a key contributor in the win.

Loser:

Defense
The defense struggled throughout the game, allowing 475 yards and 34 points. Despite two late sacks, the pass rush was largely ineffective, especially against a makeshift 49ers offensive line. The secondary had trouble covering key players like George Kittle (8 catches, 112 yards) and Ricky Pearsall (8 catches, 141 yards, 1 TD). The defense also benefitted from missed field goals and an extra point by 49ers kicker Jake Moody, but overall, this performance won’t be sustainable in the playoffs.