Despite last week’s 45-31 loss to the Washington Commanders, the Detroit Lions had some good moments. In the first half, the Lions exchanged body blows in a competitive start to the NFC divisional-round matchup.
For example, wide receiver Jameson Williams made an explosive play in the second quarter when he took an end around the distance with a 61-yard rushing touchdown. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs took the handoff from Teddy Bridgewater, who briefly spelled an injured Jared Goff. Then, Gibbs pitched to Williams, who had several blockers ahead of him on the game-breaking play.
The 23-year-old speedster cut against the grain was already celebrating at the 15-yard line and scored easily to close Washington’s lead to 24-21.
The NFL fined #Lions WR Jameson Williams $25,325 for unsportsmanlike conduct (obscene gestures) — a PG-13 rated TD celebration in last week’s playoff loss to Washington.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 25, 2025
However, Williams celebrated the touchdown with “obscene gestures” per the verbiage handed down by the NFL. He was fined $25,325 for unsportsmanlike conduct.
The 6-foot-1, 180-pound receiver would have little statistical impact on the rest of the game, as he finished with just one reception for 19 yards in the loss.
Detroit finished the contest with more first downs (30 to 27) and total yards (521 to 481).
Unfortunately for the Lions, they had five turnovers (four interceptions and one lost fumble) to Washington’s zero turnovers. The Commanders also scored touchdowns on 4-of-4 red zone trips, while the Lions found paydirt just three times in their six visits to the red zone.
Washington plays the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship on Sunday.
