In an emotional game where Tim Patrick ended a 1,000-day touchdown drought with two scores, the Detroit Lions secured a thrilling 34-31 win over the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Night Football, clinching the victory in the final moments.
The key moment came when Dan Campbell made the bold decision to go for it on fourth-and-1 at the Packers’ 21-yard line with just 43 seconds remaining. A failed conversion would have handed the Packers the ball with the game tied at 31.
But David Montgomery delivered with a crucial 7-yard run, setting up Jake Bates for the game-winning field goal.
Ford Field erupted in a deafening roar as David Montgomery powered through the line, signaling that Dan Campbell’s high-stakes fourth-down gamble had paid off, pushing the Lions to a 12-1 record.
That dramatic moment not only secured the victory but also propelled Detroit into the playoffs, marking the franchise’s best start in history.
“We just find a way,” Campbell said. “It’s what we are.”
The fiery coach saved his most passionate leadership for the final, game-defining play.
“That’s how you show up. You talk about pressure—we thrive in it. This is where we freaking shine.”
As Dan Campbell’s voice grew hoarse, Detroit players beamed with pride in the background.
“You did it again,” he continued. “It doesn’t matter who we’re facing, or what the situation is. You always find a way to win.”
With his team’s transformation clear, Campbell spoke of a higher purpose for 2024.
“This has been in the making,” he said. “We were meant to be here together. We’re destined for this.”
The Lions’ passionate coach left fans buzzing after his gutsy fourth-down call and Jake Bates’ game-winning field goal.
“How am I supposed to sleep after watching this?” one fan tweeted.
“Biggest balls in the NFL,” another posted.
“Love the way this dude coaches,” a third fan wrote.
“Just ran through my front door,” joked a fourth. “In a lot of pain.”
Even the NFL joined in on the Campbell praise, with the league’s official account tweeting: “Brick walls beware.”
But the job isn’t finished yet. Campbell and his Lions will need even more firepower on December 15 when they host Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills, in what could be a Super Bowl preview.