The Detroit Lions around German football star Amon-Ra St. Brown missed the NFL playoffs for the first time since 2022 after a bitter defeat at the Minnesota Vikings.
Detroit lost its victory on Boxing Day through its own mistakes, was defeated 10:23 and after its third defeat in a row has no chance of making it to the knockout round. Shortly before the end of the game, St. Brown also had to go out injured.
Caught eight of 13 passes
The Lions initially did not provide any information about the severity of his injury, but it is unlikely that he will play in the last game of the regular season against the Chicago Bears due to the game’s lack of sporting significance.
St. Brown caught eight balls for 68 yards against the Vikings, but the wide receiver, who was recently elected to the Pro Bowl, was denied a touchdown. With less than a minute left, the 26-year-old limped off the field after a hard tackle.
Goff annoyed after poor performance
The Lions’ biggest problem in Minneapolis was the numerous turnovers. Quarterback Jared Goff in particular was unusually erratic and lost five turnovers. In addition to two interceptions, the hosts also grabbed the ball three times when the playmaker fumbled.
Goff subsequently admitted: “It really sucks. We’ll review the entire season next week, but yeah, it’s annoying.”
Coach Campbell announces exam
Nevertheless, Detroit was within reach of the victory necessary to maintain its playoff chances until well into the final phase. Only a brilliant rushing touchdown from Vikings receiver Jordan Addison made the decision.
However, blaming his quarterback for the disappointing exit was not an option for Lions coach Dan Campbell. “If you lose, everyone is involved”he said and promised to put everything to the test. “I’m going to watch a lot of things because I don’t like watching the playoffs.”
Detroit started the season as one of the favorites for the Super Bowl. There are now some decisions to be made before the next season, said Campbell: “Because we have to improve.”