Lions Fail to Convert on Fourth Downs, Fall to Eagles 16-9
UPDATE: The Detroit Lions suffered a crushing defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles, losing 16-9 on November 12, 2023, as the team failed to convert on all 5 of their fourth down attempts. This devastating performance has left fans and analysts questioning the Lions’ offensive strategy and execution.
Quarterback Jared Goff struggled under pressure, completing only 14 of 37 passes for 255 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. His 37.8% completion rate marked the lowest of his ten-year career, a stark contrast to his previous week where he threw for 320 yards and three touchdowns.
“The fourth downs were the whole thing,” Goff stated, reflecting on the Lions’ inability to sustain drives. The team also faced challenges on third downs, converting just 3 of 13 attempts. “You’d like to think if we got a fourth down or two, it changes the game,” he added.
The Lions entered the game averaging 31.4 points per game but managed only one touchdown against a formidable Eagles defense. The absence of tight end Sam LaPorta, sidelined due to injury, was felt as the Lions struggled to find rhythm. Coach Dan Campbell, who took over play-calling duties, acknowledged, “I didn’t help those guys. I hate that.”
The Lions had a notable opportunity late in the third quarter, trailing 13-6, when Goff connected with rookie Jahmyr Gibbs for a 42-yard gain to the Eagles’ 22-yard line. However, the Lions failed to score after reaching first-and-goal at the 8-yard line, turning the ball over on downs. “We can’t get away with not scoring there,” Campbell lamented.
Defensively, the Eagles were relentless, with tackles Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis combining for five batted passes, while edge rusher Jaelan Phillips notched five tackles and a sack. “That’s not going to be the norm, what happened today,” Campbell said, expressing confidence that the team will learn and improve from this setback.
The Lions’ offensive woes were compounded by a missed extra point after Goff’s 40-yard touchdown pass to Jameson Williams, who celebrated the score with a bear-hug on the goal post, incurring a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Williams ended the game with that touchdown, but it was not enough to turn the tide.
The loss places the Lions in a precarious position in the NFC playoff standings. The Eagles, the reigning Super Bowl champions, remain at the top of the NFC with an 8-2 record, while the Lions must regroup quickly as they prepare to host the New York Giants next Sunday.
As the Lions reflect on this disappointing performance, Campbell remains optimistic: “We’re going to learn from this. We’re going to get better. We’ll be hitting our stride when other teams are going to hit their adversity.” The urgency for improvement is palpable as the Lions look to bounce back and reclaim their offensive prowess.
