WHERE: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California
WHEN: 8:15 p.m. ET | Broadcast on ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes, ESPN+, and NFL+
The Detroit Lions and San Francisco 49ers clash in a high-stakes Week 17 finale on Monday Night Football. Eleven months after their thrilling NFC Championship Game showdown, these teams meet again under vastly different circumstances to cap off the 2024 regular season.
The Lions (13-2) aim to lock up the NFC’s No. 1 seed for the first time since the 1970 conference realignment. A Detroit win, combined with a Vikings loss to the Packers on Sunday, would secure this milestone. Meanwhile, the 49ers (6-9), eliminated from playoff contention last week after a season riddled with injuries, are playing for pride and the chance to upset Detroit’s plans.
The stakes are high, and the storylines are abundant. Here are four key factors to watch when the Lions take on the 49ers:
1. Can the Lions’ Defense Hold Despite Injuries?
Detroit’s defense has been resilient this season, overcoming a staggering 14 players on injured reserve to clinch a playoff spot and set a franchise record for wins. However, their defensive stats have dipped recently, with points allowed per game soaring from 16.9 through Week 13 to 32.0 over the past three weeks. While the Lions managed to hold the Bears to 17 points last week, Monday’s game will test whether this unit can tighten up ahead of the postseason.
2. 49ers’ Offensive Line Woes
San Francisco’s offensive line is in shambles due to injuries. Star left tackle Trent Williams and several key backups are on IR, leaving the 49ers with a patchwork O-line. With the Lions’ pass rush ranking near the bottom of the league, this matchup could still be a struggle for the 49ers, who need to protect quarterback Brock Purdy and open lanes for a depleted backfield.
3. Key Players Must Shine for San Francisco
The 49ers need standout performances from their stars to compete against Detroit’s high-powered offense. Running back Isaac Guerendo is expected to lead the backfield despite recent injuries, while wide receiver Deebo Samuel looks to build on last week’s 96-yard outing. With a vulnerable Lions secondary ranked 27th against the pass, this could be a critical opportunity for Samuel to regain his top form.
4. Jahmyr Gibbs Steps into the Spotlight
With David Montgomery sidelined, Jahmyr Gibbs takes on a lead role in Detroit’s backfield. Gibbs has excelled without Montgomery this season, averaging 137.8 scrimmage yards per game in such situations. Against a struggling 49ers rush defense that has allowed over 140 yards in each of the last two games, Gibbs has the potential for another standout performance.
The Bottom Line
This Monday Night Football matchup promises an exciting mix of playoff implications and individual storylines. Will the Lions solidify their claim to the NFC’s top seed, or can the 49ers spoil their plans? Tune in to see how it all unfolds!
