For supporters of the Detroit Lions, Christmas arrived early on Sunday as Dan Campbell led the team to victory over the Minnesota Vikings and the first division title in thirty years.
The Lions have benefited from former Wolverines throughout the season, especially in this most recent victory. Aidan Hutchinson, the defensive end, had four pressures and a pass defended against Minnesota. Coming into Week 16, he led the league in both pressures and quarterback hurries.
Donovan Peoples-Jones made an 11-yard reception on the offensive end to help convert a crucial third down in the fourth quarter. Starting at right guard, Graham Glasgow helped the Lions rush for three touchdowns and 143 yards while only allowing Jared Goff to be sacked once.
Our colleagues at Pride of Detroit have recordings of Hutchinson and other Lions players celebrating in their locker rooms if you’re interested.
Josh Metellus, a safety for the Vikings, led his team with 10 total tackles, including one for a loss.
The Indianapolis Colts’ hopes of making the playoffs were not enhanced by their loss to the Atlanta Falcons; nonetheless, defensive end Kwity Paye played a part by sacking Taylor Heinicke in the second quarter.
Paye broke his own record for the most tackles in a season with his two in the game. At 47 tackles and 8.5 sacks, the third-year defender has set a new career high.
