The Detroit Lions improved to 2–1 on the season with a commanding 38–30 win over the Baltimore Ravens on Monday Night Football. The Ravens, now 1–2, suffered their first home loss to Detroit since 2005.
Offensive Dominance
Detroit’s offense was propelled by a potent rushing attack, amassing 224 total rushing yards. David Montgomery led the charge with a career-high 151 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while Jahmyr Gibbs contributed 67 rushing yards and two scores. Quarterback Jared Goff efficiently managed the game, completing 20 of 28 passes for 202 yards and a touchdown to Amon-Ra St. Brown, who had seven receptions for 77 yards.
Defensive Prowess
The Lions’ defense was equally impressive, recording seven sacks throughout the game. Al-Quadin Muhammad led the charge with 2.5 sacks, while Aidan Hutchinson and Jack Campbell each contributed a sack and a forced fumble. This relentless pass rush kept Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson under constant pressure, limiting his effectiveness.
Ravens’ Struggles
Baltimore’s offense, despite Lamar Jackson’s 288 passing yards and three touchdowns, struggled to maintain consistency. A critical fumble by running back Derrick Henry in the fourth quarter, his third of the season, led to a field goal for Detroit and proved costly in the game’s outcome.
Coaching Decisions
Lions head coach Dan Campbell made a pivotal fourth-and-2 play call with just over two minutes remaining, opting for a play-action pass that resulted in a key first down completion from Goff to St. Brown. This aggressive decision was followed by a 31-yard touchdown run by Montgomery, extending Detroit’s lead and sealing the victory.
Looking Ahead
The Lions will return home to face the Cleveland Browns in Week 4, aiming to continue their momentum. The Ravens, on the other hand, will look to rebound as they prepare for a road game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
