Introduction
The game between the Detroit Lions and the San Francisco 49ers was a gripping contest, with both teams showcasing their strengths. With the final score of 34-31 in favor of the 49ers, it was a match full of notable performances and statistics. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the key player stats and how they influenced the outcome of this exciting game.
Game Overview
- Final Score: Detroit Lions 31, San Francisco 49ers 34
- Date: [Date of the Match]
- Location: [Stadium Name]
- Record:
- Detroit Lions: 12-5 (6-3 away)
- San Francisco 49ers: 12-5 (5-3 home)
Both teams finished with identical regular-season records, making this a highly anticipated matchup. However, the 49ers ultimately edged out the Lions in a tight contest, with a second-half rally that turned the game in their favor. Let’s dive into the statistics to see how each team performed across key areas.
Team Statistics
Detroit Lions’ Performance
- First Downs: 28
- Passing First Downs: 16
- Rushing First Downs: 11
- 1st Downs from Penalties: 1
- Total Yards: 442
- Passing Yards: 260
- Rushing Yards: 182
- Total Plays: 72
- Total Drives: 10
- Yards per Play: 6.1
- 3rd Down Efficiency: 6-12
- 4th Down Efficiency: 1-3
- Red Zone (Made-Att): 3-4
- Penalties: 2-15 yards
- Turnovers: 1 (1 fumble lost)
- Possession: 27:48
The Detroit Lions had an impressive overall performance, with a balanced attack that featured 260 passing yards and 182 rushing yards. The team’s 1st down count of 28 outpaced the 49ers’ 23, showing their ability to sustain drives. They were highly efficient on third downs, converting 6 of 12 opportunities. However, their inability to capitalize on fourth down, where they only managed 1 of 3 attempts, ultimately cost them critical opportunities. The Lions were strong in the rushing game, averaging an impressive 6.3 yards per carry. Their offensive line, led by key players, gave ample support to their running backs, and the run game allowed the Lions to maintain a solid rhythm throughout the game.
However, one key downfall was the turnover situation. The Lions lost a fumble, which was one of the significant factors contributing to their loss, as it gave the 49ers valuable field position. Despite this, their overall offensive performance was strong, with QB Jared Goff completing 25 of 41 pass attempts for 260 yards.
San Francisco 49ers’ Performance
- First Downs: 23
- Passing First Downs: 12
- Rushing First Downs: 11
- 1st Downs from Penalties: 0
- Total Yards: 413
- Passing Yards: 258
- Rushing Yards: 155
- Total Plays: 66
- Total Drives: 11
- Yards per Play: 6.3
- 3rd Down Efficiency: 6-12
- 4th Down Efficiency: 0-1
- Red Zone (Made-Att): 4-5
- Penalties: 3-20 yards
- Turnovers: 1 (1 interception thrown)
- Possession: 32:12
The 49ers, despite trailing for much of the game, were able to make a remarkable comeback in the second half. Their passing game was highly efficient, with quarterback Brock Purdy completing 20 of 31 passes for 258 yards. His performance, despite an interception, played a crucial role in moving the ball downfield and keeping the offense on track. San Francisco’s rushing game was also solid, with 155 yards on 33 attempts, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. This helped them maintain possession and control the clock, as they held the ball for 32:12, nearly 5 minutes longer than the Lions. The 49ers’ ability to balance both the pass and run was key to their offensive success.
On defense, the 49ers made critical stops at key moments. They had a solid third-down defense, matching the Lions’ efficiency at 6-12. However, they were less effective on fourth down, failing to convert their lone attempt.
Player Stats Breakdown
Detroit Lions Players
Jared Goff (QB): 25-41, 260 Yards, 0 TDs, 0 INTs
Goff had a strong performance, throwing for 260 yards. While he didn’t score a touchdown, his ability to keep the offense moving was a highlight.
Jamaal Williams (RB): 18 Rushes, 91 Yards, 1 TD
Williams was a key contributor in the run game, scoring a touchdown and averaging 5.1 yards per carry. His physical running style helped keep the chains moving.
Amon-Ra St. Brown (WR): 8 Receptions, 111 Yards
St. Brown had a standout game, leading the team in receiving yards and providing a reliable target for Goff.
DeAndre Swift (RB): 9 Rushes, 56 Yards, 1 TD
Swift added another dimension to the Lions’ run game with his speed and elusiveness. He contributed a touchdown and kept the 49ers’ defense honest.
Jeff Okudah (CB): 7 Tackles
Okudah was a standout on defense, recording 7 tackles and providing solid coverage against the 49ers’ wide receivers.
San Francisco 49ers Players
Brock Purdy (QB): 20-31, 258 Yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Purdy delivered when it counted, throwing for over 250 yards and 2 touchdowns. His performance was instrumental in the 49ers’ comeback.
Christian McCaffrey (RB): 16 Rushes, 87 Yards, 1 TD
McCaffrey was a key player in both the running and passing games, adding a touchdown on the ground and providing valuable yards.
Deebo Samuel (WR): 5 Receptions, 60 Yards, 1 TD
Samuel played a pivotal role in the 49ers’ passing game, contributing with a touchdown and showcasing his ability to make plays after the catch.
Brandon Aiyuk (WR): 4 Receptions, 76 Yards
Aiyuk was a reliable target for Purdy, providing key receptions that helped set up scoring opportunities.
Fred Warner (LB): 11 Tackles, 1 Interception
Warner was an essential defensive piece, with 11 tackles and an interception. His ability to read the offense and disrupt plays helped the 49ers maintain control.
Key Takeaways
Turnovers: While both teams turned the ball over once, Detroit’s fumble loss was more costly, as it gave San Francisco a short field and extra opportunities. The 49ers’ interception, though a negative, did not have the same immediate impact.
Rushing Attack: Detroit’s rushing game, led by Jamaal Williams and DeAndre Swift, was dominant, totaling 182 yards. On the other hand, the 49ers kept pace with 155 rushing yards, led by McCaffrey’s steady performance.
Red Zone Efficiency: Detroit had a strong 3-for-4 performance in the red zone, but San Francisco’s 4-for-5 efficiency was more impactful. The 49ers were better at capitalizing on their scoring chances.
Passing Efficiency: Both quarterbacks were effective, but Purdy’s 2 touchdowns and ability to lead a second-half comeback gave him the edge over Goff, who did not find the end zone.
Defensive Impact: Fred Warner’s 11 tackles and interception were game-changers. His leadership and playmaking ability helped San Francisco stifle Detroit’s attack during critical moments.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions and San Francisco 49ers played a thrilling game that was full of strategic battles and standout individual performances. While the Lions put up a strong fight, particularly with their rushing attack and efficient passing, the 49ers’ ability to balance both their passing and rushing games, coupled with key defensive stops, ultimately secured the win. The player stats show that both teams have impressive talent across the board, with key contributors stepping up when needed. Detroit’s solid performance was marred by missed opportunities on fourth down and turnovers, while the 49ers capitalized on their chances in the red zone and made a strong second-half push to secure the victory. As both teams continue their respective seasons, this game served as a reminder of how critical efficiency, both offensively and defensively, is in determining the outcome of tight matches in the NFL.
