DETROIT – It’s officially playoff time in Detroit.
The Lions closed out the regular season on Sunday, earning their 12th win, and completing a sweep of the Minnesota Vikings, eliminating them from playoff contention.
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The Lions led the entire game and controlled things from start to finish. The final score was 30-20. Detroit finishes the regular season 12-5. It’s the first 12-win season since 1991 for Detroit.
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The Lions did not escape the Vikings game unscathed, though -- star rookie tight end Sam LaPorta was carted off with a knee injury and didn’t return in the game. His status for the playoffs is murky. Lions coach Dan Campbell said they’d know more on Monday after testing.
Lions wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Kalif Raymond also appeared to sustain injuries during the game. Raymond left in the fourth quarter with a knee injury and didn’t return. Brown finished the game on the field and appeared to be okay. Jameson Williams didn’t play due to an ankle injury.
The Lions technically didn’t need to win the game vs. the Vikings on Sunday, but Campbell elected to try and win for a long-shot chance at the No. 2 seed.
It’s been a fun season for Lions fans, with the team delivering big wins, a season of competent football, and meaningful late-season games.
The Lions will try to break the longest playoff win drought in the NFL next weekend in Detroit. The crowd is going to be rocking, especially with Matthew Stafford visiting town with the Rams.