For the first 11 games of the season, the Lions won more than they lost, but always struggled. Not today in New Orleans.
Today the Lions controlled the game throughout, jumping out to an early 10-0 lead and never looking back as they beat the Saints.
This was the first game all season that the Lions didn’t trail in the fourth quarter: Until today, they had been losing at some point in the fourth quarter of all 11 games, although they managed to come from behind and win seven of them. Today they had a comfortable lead throughout the fourth quarter. The win improves the Lions’ record to 8-4 and makes clear that they’re the favorites to win the NFC North.
Lions receiver Golden Tate had an outstanding game against a weak Saints secondary, getting open repeatedly and finishing with over 100 yards, including a game-sealing 66-yard touchdown. Matthew Stafford had one of his best games of the season.
Saints quarterback Drew Brees threw three late interceptions that ended any hope the Saints might have had of winning. The Lions’ defense played better than expected, while the Saints’ offense was hampered by the loss of tight end Josh Hill to a leg injury.
The Saints, at 5-7, are probably out of playoff contention. But the Lions look like a playoff team. They have a two-game lead in the NFC North, with only four games to play.