The Lions won their first Thanksgiving game since 2016 to go to 11-1.
– With an 11-1 start, their best in team history, the Detroit Lions continue to end a laundry list of notable droughts.
The Lions, who defeated the Chicago Bears 23-20, had lost seven straight Thanksgiving Day games, which was a point of emphasis throughout the week from head coach Dan Campbell.
The Lions dominated the opening half with 18 first downs compared to the Bears’ two. Chicago’s first first down came with 55 seconds left in the second quarter. The second half was a different story as the Bears stormed back only to fall short after a sack as time expired on the final drive of the game.
Quarterback Jared Goff went 21-for-34 for 221 yards and two touchdowns. The running back duo of with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery combined for 175 yards.
While honoring the late John Madden with jersey patches on their uniforms, the Lions defense also pitched a first half shutout, in front of a star-studded crowd, which included actor Tim Allen, rapper Eminem, Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who wore holiday gear in a suite. — Eric Woodyard
Most surprising performance: TE Sam LaPorta. After a record-breaking rookie season, the Pro Bowler got off to a slow start in Year 2 with two touchdowns in Weeks 1-8. However, LaPorta connected with Goff on two receiving touchdowns against the Bears in his second game back after being sidelined against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Nov. 17 with a shoulder injury.
Describe the game in two words: Defensive letdown.
