NFC Championship Preview: Lions vs. 49ers – Records, Challenges, and Injury Updates

49ers’ Victory in the Divisional Round

The San Francisco 49ers, boasting a season record of 12-5, secured a victory in the Divisional round against the Packers with a score of 24-21. Quarterback Brock Purdy threw for 252 yards, completing 23 out of 39 passes with a quarterback rating of 86.7 and no interceptions. Star receiver George Kittle stood out with 4 catches for 81 yards, while running back Christian McCaffrey rushed for 98 yards on 17 carries, averaging 5.8 yards per attempt. The 49ers concluded the game with 356 total yards, running 64 plays at an average of 5.6 yards per play. Defensively, they allowed 136 rushing yards on 28 attempts, averaging 4.9 yards per carry, and a completion percentage of 61.8%, conceding 194 passing yards on 21 completions out of 34 attempts.

49ers’ Season Performance

Throughout the season, the 49ers maintained an impressive average of 28.9 points per game, securing them the 3rd rank in the league. Their passing game excelled with 4,384 yards gained, averaging 257.9 passing yards per game (placing them 4th in the NFL). Additionally, the 49ers showcased a potent rushing attack, averaging 140.5 rushing yards per game and accumulating a total of 2,389 rushing yards for the season. Their well-rounded offense claimed the 2nd spot in the NFL, averaging 398.4 total yards per game. On the disciplinary front, the 49ers faced challenges with 933 yards in penalties across 101 infractions and encountered 18 turnovers, comprising 12 interceptions and 6 fumbles lost. Defensively, they allowed 20 passing touchdowns, permitted an average of 214.2 passing yards per game, and conceded 1,525 rushing yards (averaging 89.7 yards per game). Despite these defensive challenges, they held strong, giving up a total of 298 points, earning them the 3rd position in the league, and showcased defensive prowess with 28 turnovers, including 22 interceptions and 6 fumbles recovered.

Lions’ Journey to the Championship

In an extraordinary season, the Detroit Lions carry a stellar 12-5 record into the NFC Championship Game. Their path through the Divisional round saw them triumph over the Buccaneers with a final score of 31-23. Quarterback Jared Goff played a pivotal role, showcasing accuracy and skill with 30 completions out of 43 attempts for 287 yards and 2 touchdowns, earning a QB rating of 103.5. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs led the ground game with 74 yards on 9 carries, averaging an impressive 8.2 yards per carry. Amon-Ra St. Brown contributed significantly with 8 receptions for 77 yards, averaging 9.6 yards per catch. The Lions’ offensive prowess was evident as they executed 71 plays for a total of 391 yards. Defensively, they faced challenges, allowing 26 completions on 41 attempts, totaling 319 yards, with a completion rate of 63.4%. In the rushing game, the Lions conceded 89 yards on 15 attempts, averaging 5.9 yards per rush allowed.

Lions’ Season Performance

Throughout the season, the Lions maintained an average of 27.1 points per game and ranked 5th in rushing yards with 135.9 per game. They accumulated a total of 6,712 yards, secured 228 first downs, and faced 97 penalties for 843 yards. However, turnovers remained a concern, with 23 in total (12 interceptions and 11 fumbles lost). Their scoring distribution included 30 passing touchdowns and 27 rushing touchdowns. Defensively, the Lions faced challenges against the pass, allowing 4,205 passing yards and ranking 27th in the league. They surrendered an average of 247.4 passing yards per game with a completion percentage of 63.1%. In total yardage, they allowed 336.1 yards per game, ranking 19th, and conceded 3.7 yards per rush with 88.8 rushing yards per game. The Lions gave up 1,509 rushing yards throughout the season, allowing an average of 23.2 points per game and ranking 23rd in the league.

Key Players and Injuries

Star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson has been a standout for the Lions, recording 11.5 sacks in the regular season and three in two playoff games. Hutchinson leads the NFL in pressures with 118, boasting a 29% pressure rate in the playoffs and achieving at least five pressures in 11 consecutive games.

Despite potential injury concerns with star wide receiver Deebo Samuel (shoulder), the 49ers possess a formidable offensive lineup with Christian McCaffrey leading the league in rushing yards (1,459), yards per carry (5.4), total touchdowns (21), and yards from scrimmage (2,023). The 49ers’ defense, allowing an average of 17.5 points per game, ranks 3rd in the NFL.

In terms of injuries, the 49ers have uncertainties with Deebo Samuel (shoulder), Trent Williams (OT, NIR – Rest), Dre Greenlaw (LB, Achilles), and Nick Bosa (DL, NIR – Rest). The Lions face injury concerns with Kalif Raymond (WR, Knee), Frank Ragnow (C, Ankle/toe), Jonah Jackson (OG, Knee), James Houston IV (LB, Ankle), Josh Reynolds (WR, Ribs), and Sam LaPorta (TE, Knee).

Lions and 49ers Face Off in NFC Championship Showdown

The Detroit Lions, with a 12-5 record, advance to the NFC Championship after defeating the Buccaneers. Led by quarterback Jared Goff, their offense shines, but defensive challenges persist. The San Francisco 49ers, at 12-5, secure victory over the Packers with a dominant season averaging 28.9 points per game. The NFC Championship clash at Levi’s Stadium awaits, where the 49ers aim for a 13th consecutive home win against the Lions. Injuries loom for both teams, notably with Lions’ star Aidan Hutchinson and potential concerns for 49ers’ Deebo Samuel. Don’t miss the chance to visit BetAnySports.eu and claim a 30% CASH bonus on your deposit. Explore the new look of BetAnySports.eu!

Spread: Lions +7 (+100) – 49ers -7 (-120) 

Money line: Lions +285 – 49ers -355

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In or Out? Can Goff & The Lions Cover in San Francisco?