Detroit may not have looked sharp throughout, but in the end, a victory is what mattered most for the Lions.

After a shaky start, Detroit’s offense found its rhythm, with Jared Goff connecting consistently with his key playmakers to throw for over 300 yards. The Lions ultimately topped the Dallas Cowboys 44-30 at Ford Field.

The win was crucial for Detroit’s postseason chances, keeping them in contention for the final Wild Card spot. The Lions sit at 8-5, just one game behind 9-4 San Francisco, and the victory prevented Dallas from overtaking them in the standings.

The game began with both teams exchanging field goals. Detroit seemed to take a 5-3 lead when linebacker Jack Campbell recorded a safety, but the call was overturned on review. Still, the Lions gained favorable field position. Jahmyr Gibbs capitalized with a short touchdown run, and after Dallas narrowed the gap to 10-6, David Montgomery added another rushing score.

By halftime, Detroit held a 20-9 advantage. The Lions widened the margin early in the third quarter when Derrick Barnes intercepted Dak Prescott on the first play and Goff quickly found Isaac TeSlaa for a touchdown.

Dallas fought back, with Javonte Williams scoring and Brandon Aubrey kicking a 63-yard field goal to cut the deficit. Detroit added a field goal from Jake Bates to extend the lead to 11, but Prescott connected with Ryan Flournoy for a 42-yard touchdown to keep the Cowboys within striking distance.

Gibbs scored two more touchdowns in the fourth quarter, with a key kickoff return by Tom Kennedy setting up the final points that sealed the win for Detroit.

For Lions fans, Thursday night’s result provided relief and renewed optimism as playoff hopes remain alive. While once considered championship contenders, Detroit is now fighting to secure a postseason berth. The team’s offensive flashes, however, offered a glimpse of what they are capable of when operating at peak efficiency.