Lions’ Roar Silences Jaguars in Commanding 52-6 Victory
The Detroit Lions showcased their dominance yet again with a powerful performance, leaving no doubt about their rising status as a top contender. The Lions' explosive offense, currently averaging 31.6 points per game and ranking second in the league, along with their solid defense, was on full display as they crushed the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, it's worth noting that the Jaguars were still missing their star quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, whose absence left a noticeable void in their lineup. Lawrence is the highest-paid quarterback in the league.
With Lawrence sidelined due to a shoulder injury, Mac Jones took over as the starting quarterback for the second consecutive game. Jones, a Jacksonville native, previously played for the New England Patriots before being traded to the Jaguars in March 2024. He had a strong rookie season with the Patriots, making the Pro Bowl and finishing second in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting. The game began with the Jaguars securing an early lead through a 59-yard field goal by kicker Cam Little, capping a nine-play, 29-yard drive. However, the Lions quickly responded as running back David Montgomery rushed for a two-yard touchdown, finishing a nine-play, 70-yard drive. The first quarter ended with the Lions leading 7-3.
The Lions' offensive juggernaut continued to roll in the second quarter. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs plunged in for a one-yard touchdown, concluding a 13-play, 93-yard drive. Following this, Montgomery found the end zone again with a six-yard rush, completing an eight-play, 64-yard drive. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown further extended the lead with a 27-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Jared Goff, ending a swift four-play, 84-yard drive. The Jaguars managed to add another field goal by Little from 35 yards, wrapping up the half with a score of 28-6 in favor of the Lions.
The Lions continued their dominance into the third quarter. Wide receiver Jameson Williams caught a 64-yard touchdown pass from Goff, capping off an 80-yard drive in just four plays. Later, tight end Brock Wright secured a five-yard touchdown reception, finishing a 14-play, 83-yard drive. The Lions extended their lead to 42-6. In the final quarter, the Lions did not ease up. St. Brown added another touchdown with a nine-yard reception from Goff, concluding a nine-play, 96-yard drive. Kicker Jake Bates then sealed the victory with a 54-yard field goal, bringing the final score to 52-6, showcasing why the Lions are favored to win the NFC North. This commanding win highlighted the Lions' dominance but also underscored the importance of athletes staying healthy, as the game saw several injuries on both sides.
Injuries include Jaguars’ quarterback, Lawrence, who missed his second straight game due to a shoulder injury. Running back Tank Bigsby was also inactive with an ankle injury. Cornerback Tyson Campbell’s shoulder, center Mitch Morse’s eye, and wide receiver Gabe Davis’ knee were hurt during the game. For the Lions, Sam LaPorta is still inactive due to a shoulder injury. Linebacker Alex Anzalone broke his left forearm. Coach Dan Campbell said he would be out for six to eight weeks. Cornerback Carlton Davis played sparingly after breaking his left thumb in practice during the week. During the game, tight end Shane Zylstra hurt his neck, and wide receiver Allen Robinson II was evaluated for a concussion.
