The Detroit Lions ended a decades-long drought with a historic 2023 campaign
In short: After years of struggle, the Detroit Lions transformed their fortunes in 2023. By securing their first division title since 1993 and their first playoff victory since 1991, the franchise broke a long-standing post-season drought and re-established themselves as a dominant force in the NFC.
The 2023 season marked the Lions' 94th season in the NFL and their 90th in Detroit. Under the leadership of head coach and general manager Dan Campbell alongside Brad Holmes, the team achieved a 12–5 regular season record. This performance tied the franchise record for wins and resulted in a .706 winning percentage, their best since 1991. This success allowed them to enter the NFC playoffs as the third seed, following a three-way tie for the best record in the NFC with the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys.
The team's momentum was built on several key milestones. An unexpected win over the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium meant they began the campaign 1–0, a feat not achieved since 2017. By Week 11, the Lions had achieved an 8–2 start, a feat they had not reached since 1962. A victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 16 secured their first division title since 1993, their first as members of the NFC North following the 2002 realignment.
The postseason brought both triumph and heartbreak. Detroit ended the longest winless post-season drought in the NFL by defeating the Los Angeles Rams 24–23 in a Wild Card game, marking their first playoff win since 1991. They followed this by defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31–23 in the Divisional Round, hosting two playoff games in a single season for the first time in franchise history. Their run ultimately ended in the NFC Championship Game, where they lost to the San Francisco 49ers 34–31 after surrendering a 24–7 halftime lead.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: 2023 Detroit Lions season
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