Mon Jan 06 04:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Lions Roar into Playoffs as NFC’s Top Seed

**DETROIT, MI** – The Detroit Lions capped off a historic regular season with a resounding 31-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday night, securing the NFC’s top seed and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs led the charge with four touchdowns in the game.

This marks the first time in franchise history the Lions have earned the NFC’s top seed, finishing with a 15-2 record – the most wins in a single regular season in team history. Their only two losses came against the Buffalo Bills and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, both by narrow margins.

Despite a stellar offensive performance that saw them lead the league in scoring and rank second in total yards, the Lions head into the postseason with injury concerns. Several key defensive players, including Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, and Carlton Davis, have been sidelined, and rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold suffered a foot injury in Sunday’s game.

The Lions’ playoff run begins with a bye week, before hosting the lowest-seeded Wild Card winner in the Divisional Round. Their divisional rivals, the Minnesota Vikings, despite a 14-win season, will travel as the fifth seed to face the Los Angeles Rams.

Other notable NFL Week 18 happenings include:

* **Broncos Return to Playoffs:** The Denver Broncos clinched their first playoff berth since Super Bowl 50.
* **Rodgers Reaches Milestone:** Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw his 500th career touchdown pass.
* **Patriots Fire Mayo:** The New England Patriots fired head coach Jerod Mayo after a disappointing season.
* **Buccaneers Clinch South:** The Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured the NFC South title and a playoff berth.
* **Evans Extends Streak:** Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans extended his streak of 1,000-yard receiving seasons to eleven.
* **Coaching Decisions:** Shane Steichen remains head coach of the Indianapolis Colts, and Chris Ballard will continue as general manager. The future of Mike McCarthy with the Dallas Cowboys remains uncertain. Tyreek Hill hinted at a potential move away from the Miami Dolphins.

The NFL Wild Card Weekend schedule was also released on Sunday night. The Lions, aiming for their first Super Bowl appearance, are now two home wins away from reaching Super Bowl LIX.

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