The Detroit Lions kept their NFL playoff hopes alive with an impressive victory over the Dallas Cowboys. For the Texans, however, the dream of the postseason is as good as over.

The Detroit Lions won the eagerly awaited NFL blockbuster game against the Dallas Cowboys in impressive fashion. In a predictable offensive spectacle, the Lions prevailed 44-30 at home against the Cowboys, keeping their playoff chances alive.

The Texans, on the other hand, not only suffered their first defeat after three consecutive wins, but also a potentially decisive setback in the playoff race against a direct competitor for a wildcard spot in the NFC. According to NextGen Stats, the Cowboys now have only a nine percent chance of making the postseason after the defeat.

The Lions’ player of the game was running back Jahmyr Gibbs with three rushing touchdowns and 120 scrimmage yards. With 47 touchdowns in his first three seasons, he tied the record set by legend Barry Sanders.

Amon-Ra St. Brown was fit and conspicuous

The Lions were also able to call on wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, who had been injured recently and caught six balls for 92 yards. Only Jameson Williams (96) had more receiving yards for Detroit.

Quarterback Jared Goff played solidly and flawlessly, completing 25 of 34 passes for 309 yards and finding rookie Isaac TeSlaa for a touchdown. However, the Lions suffered a potentially serious loss in the final stages of the game when safety Brian Branch suffered an ankle injury and had to be driven off the field.
It would be the next loss for a battered secondary. Meanwhile, the Cowboys had to cope with the loss of star receiver CeeDee Lamb shortly after the start of the second half, who suffered a concussion in a duel with a Lions defender. Until then, Lamb had been playing a monster game and had already racked up 121 yards.

On the other hand, George Pickens, who had been outstanding recently, was hardly a factor, gaining only 37 yards. Instead, Ryan Flournoy took center stage after Lamb’s departure, catching nine passes for 115 yards and the Cowboys’ only receiving touchdown.

Prescott throws two interceptions

Quarterback Dak Prescott had a bitter evening, throwing two interceptions. The first came on the very first play of the second half, giving the Lions a short field, which they rewarded with a touchdown. The second pick came just before the end of the game in an attempt to turn the game around.

Once again, kicker Brandon Aubrey was outstanding, converting five field goals and an extra point, including a 63-yard kick.

The Cowboys continue in Week 15 with a home game against the Minnesota Vikings, while the Lions travel to the Los Angeles Rams in their next top game.