There were two completely different narratives surrounding the San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions going into the NFC Championship Game. Record numbers of NFL fans tuned in to see the clash, making it prime television.
Almost 57 million people watched the NFC Championship Game. According to Fox Sports, it’s the fourth most-watched non-Super Bowl telecast in the network’s history and the most watched Fox game since 2012. Compared to the NFC Championship Game a year earlier, viewership increased by 19%.
The 49ers wanted to get revenge after losing to the Eagles in the NFC Championship game the previous year. San Francisco intended to punch their ticket to the Super Bowl and disprove their naysayers, especially with Brock Purdy back to 100% health.
Conversely, Detroit was seen as the underdog. The Lions seldom rarely this far into the playoffs, even after an incredible season. They appeared to be a formidable opponent for the NFC favorites with their potent offense.
The Lions started off strong and led 14-0 at the end of the first quarter. They would extend their advantage to 24-7 at the half. The 49ers, though, rallied and scored 27 points in a row. San Francisco held on for a 34-31 victory despite a late touchdown from Detroit.
As the Lions try to pick themselves up and turn things around for next season, the 49ers will now be playing in the Super Bowl. This NFC Championship Game matchup may not be their last because both teams have dynamic rosters. If so, they will undoubtedly bring more attention to what has developed into a difficult contest for both teams.
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Concerning the Writer
Dan Fappiano is a sports journalist from Connecticut who attended Central Connecticut State University and Tunxis Community College. Dan has worked as a print and web sports writer for high school and professional teams. One day, he wants to witness his beloved Chicago Bears triumph in the Super Bowl.
The simplest way to sum up the Detroit Lions’ Sunday loss to the San Francisco 49ers could be “heartbreak.” The Lions led by 17 points at the half and lost the game by just three points after blowing their entire advantage in the third quarter. Following the game, Dan Campbell’s decision to pass up field goal kicks on two fourth down opportunities was one of the most talked-about stories.
In the third quarter, the Lions found themselves in a fourth-and-two situation on the 49ers’ 28-yard line. In the last quarter, San Francisco was leading and they found themselves in a fourth-and-three situation. The 49ers scored on the next two possessions after both calls ended in incomplete passes.
Many Detroit supporters bemoaned Campbell’s pivotal choices, given that the Lions were defeated by a mere three points, as previously indicated. Tom Brady also offered his thoughts on the matter. Brady, a successful player in his own right, acknowledged the Lions’ boldness but made it plain that he would have taken the points.
“They’ve been aggressive all year,” Brady said, via Bleacher Report’s Scott Polacek. “You know obviously, when you’re aggressive and it doesn’t work, it comes back to bite you. It came back to bite them yesterday. Again, I would’ve taken the points.”
Dan Campbell had a memorable season with the Lions this year, even with the loss. Even after giving the squad its first division victory in decades and two playoff victories, Campbell has accomplished plenty this season to be pleased of. Detroit has finally moved into the off-season. But with the team’s potential now known, Lions supporters have even more to be excited about in 2024.Brian Buyawe is an avid sports fan who has a special interest in football, basketball, and Formula One. Running, reading, and participating in leisure leagues are some of his pastimes. Brian’s passion for the Celtics dates back to his childhood, when he happened upon an old Larry Bird documentary in his family’s video library.
