The Detroit Lions opened their 2026 season with a thrilling 31-30 overtime victory against the New Orleans Saints at Ford Field. The game featured a dramatic second-half collapse by Detroit, as New Orleans scored 24 unanswered points to force the contest into overtime. Despite the comeback bid, the Saints ultimately fell short in their attempt to steal the win.
Detroit dominated the early portions of the matchup, building a commanding 21-0 lead by the end of the third quarter. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs was instrumental in the Lions’ fast start, scoring two touchdowns and reaching his 50th career touchdown—making him the sixth player in NFL history to accomplish that milestone in just 50 games. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown also contributed offensively with a touchdown reception.
New Orleans mounted an impressive rally in the final quarter, narrowing the deficit to just three points with under two minutes remaining in regulation. Saints kicker Daniel Carlson’s 62-yard field goal attempt sailed wide, sending the game to overtime. In the extra period, Goff connected with St. Brown for a go-ahead touchdown to give Detroit a 31-24 advantage. New Orleans responded with a touchdown pass to Noah Fant but failed on their two-point conversion attempt, sealing the Lions’ 1-0 start to the season.
Detroit will travel to Buffalo to face the Bills on Thursday Night Football on September 17th. Offensive lineman Christian Mahogany left the game with a knee injury in the first quarter and was ruled out for the remainder of the contest.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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