The Detroit Lions claimed their first Thanksgiving win in seven years by fending off a late rally from the Chicago Bears, winning 23-20.
This win marks the Lions’ 10th consecutive victory, a streak that ties their 90-year franchise record set during their inaugural season in Detroit back in 1934.
Thanksgiving football is a long-standing tradition for the Lions, who have hosted the holiday game every year since 1934.
However, Thursday’s win was their first Thanksgiving success since 2016.
Dominating early, Detroit built a commanding 16-0 lead by half-time and extended it to 23-7 by the end of the third quarter.
Quarterback Jared Goff played a pivotal role, throwing for 221 yards and connecting with Sam LaPorta for two touchdowns.
🔟 in a row🔥 pic.twitter.com/cVHC09qhCW
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) November 28, 2024
The Lions completely outpaced the Bears in the first half, outgaining them 279 yards to 53.
Despite the Lions’ control, Chicago made a valiant push in the final quarter.
The Bears narrowed the gap to three points with 5.36 left on the clock, creating a tense finish, but there was not enough time left on the clock for Caleb Williams to get a winning drive.
The Bears extended their losing streak to six games, failing to capitalise on key moments in the closing stages.
A missed opportunity to use their final timeout added to their struggles at a vital moment.
The Lions are firmly positioning themselves as one of the NFL’s standout teams this year.
The festivities wrap up with two games on Friday: the Miami Dolphins face the Green Bay Packers, followed by the Las Vegas Raiders travelling to take on the Kansas City Chiefs.
