Lions Triumph Over Colts with Strong Performance

Indianapolis witnessed a compelling encounter on Sunday as the Detroit Lions decisively defeated the Indianapolis Colts with a score of 24-6. Jahmyr Gibbs shone brightly for the Lions, rushing for two touchdowns, while David Montgomery contributed a third rushing score to highlight the team’s offensive prowess.

Gibbs recorded a notable 21 carries for 90 yards, helping the Lions (10-1) to extend their impressive winning streak to nine games, marking the longest run since the team’s inception in 1934. Meanwhile, Jared Goff further solidified his impressive season, completing 26 out of 36 passes for 269 yards, affirming his role as a key player for the Lions.

For the Colts (5-7), the setback marked their second consecutive loss at home and their fourth defeat in the last five games. Quarterback Anthony Richardson struggled, completing only 11 of 28 passes for 172 yards and adding 61 rushing yards on 10 attempts. While the Colts’ defense worked hard to contain the highest-scoring offense in the NFL, their inability to convert opportunities into touchdowns ultimately bounded their chances of victory.

The game began with Richardson leading the Colts deep into Lions territory, but the drive ended with merely a short field goal. The Lions responded quickly, with Gibbs rushing for a 1-yard touchdown, giving them a 7-3 advantage early in the second quarter. After another field goal from Indy, Montgomery scored on a 6-yard run to push the Lions’ lead to 14-6.

Detroit further stretched its lead with Gibbs’ second touchdown of the day—a 5-yard run late in the third quarter. They sealed the win with a 56-yard field goal midway through the final quarter, solidifying their road prowess as they improved to an impressive 6-0 when playing away from home. Amon-Ra St. Brown was also a contributing factor in the passing game, catching six balls for 62 yards.

Despite the loss, Michael Pittman Jr. had a solid outing for the Colts, recording six receptions for 96 yards, even after briefly exiting the game due to a shoulder injury.

In terms of milestones, Gibbs’ first touchdown of the game marked the Lions’ record of 25 consecutive games with a rushing touchdown, counting playoffs as well. He also joined notable franchise legends Billy Sims and Barry Sanders as the only Lions players to achieve 1,000 scrimmage yards and 10 touchdowns in each of their first two seasons.

Injury concerns arose during the game, particularly for the Lions, who saw receiver and punt returner Kalif Raymond (foot), left tackle Taylor Decker (right leg), and Montgomery (shoulder) exit in the third quarter—Raymond and Montgomery did not return, though Decker rejoined the game later. Additionally, cornerback Carlton Davis II left in the fourth with a possible left knee injury.

For the Colts, the team had to manage without left tackle Bernhard Raimann (knee), requiring them to insert three rookie linemen once again. Receivers Ashton Dulin (ankle) and Josh Downs (shoulder) were also impacted, with Downs returning later in the game but Dulin unable to.

Looking ahead, the Lions are set to host the Chicago Bears for their traditional Thanksgiving Day matchup. Meanwhile, the Colts will travel to face the New England Patriots next Sunday as they look to turn their fortunes around.