Detroit Lions survive Chicago Bears surge, win 23-20

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The Detroit Lions have given their supporters a significant amount to be grateful for the past 24 months.

After starting the 2024 season with a 10-1 record, the Lions were universally considered the No. 1 team in the NFL.

Seeking to end a seven-game losing streak on Thanksgiving, Dan Campbell’s team took the field to square off against a 4-7 Chicago Bears team that was trying to end a five-game losing streak.

In front of a nationally-televised audience, Detroit showcased talented units on offense, defense and special teams.

After 60 minutes of action at Ford Field, the Lions were able to hold off a second-half surge from the Bears to win 23-20. Next up is a game next Thursday evening against the Green Bay Packers.

Here are several takeaways from the Lions’ eleventh victory of the season.

Fun on Thanksgiving

Detroit won the opening coin toss, and elected to receive the football.

Part of the appeal of the 2024 Lions has been their willingness to deploy a variety of different trick plays.

On their opening possession, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson decided to finally dial up a trick play for right tackle Penei Sewell to toss the football.

Unfortunately, Chicago’s secondary had Detroit’s receivers covered, resulting in the talented right tackle losing a yard after scrambling near the line of scrimmage.

Detroit used nearly eight minutes of the first quarter on its 15-play, 58-yard drive. Jake Bates, who came into the game not having missed a kick, gave Detroit an early 3-0 lead with a 30-yard field goal, after the opening drive stalled in the red zone.

Live Blog: Follow Lions Thanksgiving Game Against Bears

WHY NOT —Sewell Via: @NFLonCBS pic.twitter.com/l6TApud1Pc

— DetroitSportsPodcast (@DetroitPodcast) November 28, 2024

Jahmyr Gibbs sparks Lions’ offense

The tandem of David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs has emerged as one of the best duos in the entire league.

Prior to the game, the talented running backs were photographed embracing their “Sonic and Knuckles” nicknames, donning jackets that highlighted their popular new monikers.

After Detroit’s defense stopped the Bears on their first possession, Detroit utilized Gibbs’ growing confidence as a runner to move … Read More