The Detroit Lions’ magical playoff run came to a gut-wrenching halt in the Divisional Round against the Washington Commanders. It wasn’t the ending fans were hoping for — a 27-24 loss that left Ford Field stunned and silent. Still, the game revealed a lot about where the Lions stand as a team built for the long haul. Some players elevated their game under pressure, while others saw their stock take a major hit.
Here’s a breakdown of the Lions’ biggest risers and fallers after the heartbreaking loss.
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🔼 Stock Up
1. Aidan Hutchinson – DE
Once again, Hutchinson proved he’s the heartbeat of Detroit’s defense. His relentless pressure on Sam Howell forced hurried throws and disrupted the Commanders’ rhythm. Even when the scoreboard tilted, Hutchinson’s energy never faded — the kind of effort that defines playoff leaders.
2. Amon-Ra St. Brown – WR
St. Brown showed up when it mattered most, catching nearly everything thrown his way and keeping the offense alive in crunch time. His fight for every yard and ability to make contested grabs reaffirmed why he’s one of the NFL’s most dependable receivers.
3. Jahmyr Gibbs – RB
Explosive. Dynamic. Fearless. Gibbs turned short runs into highlight plays and gave fans a glimpse of Detroit’s offensive future. He may not have found the end zone this time, but his impact was undeniable.
4. Jack Campbell – LB
The rookie linebacker looked anything but inexperienced. His instincts and tackling were spot on, earning praise even in defeat. Campbell continues to justify why the Lions made him a first-round pick.
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🔽 Stock Down
1. Jared Goff – QB
Goff had moments of brilliance but also costly mistakes that shifted momentum. A late-game interception ended hopes of a comeback — and while he’s been solid all season, this performance will sting for a while.
2. Jameson Williams – WR
Williams struggled to get separation and missed key opportunities that could’ve changed the game’s flow. Consistency remains his biggest challenge heading into next season.
3. Giovanni Manu – LT
The offensive line looked shaky without veteran Taylor Decker at full strength, and Manu’s struggles in pass protection were glaring. He gave up pressure at the worst possible times.
4. Cameron Sutton – CB
Washington targeted Sutton early and often — and it worked. Missed tackles and poor positioning made it one of his toughest outings in a Lions uniform.
5. Derrick Barnes – LB
A step slow in coverage and late on key blitzes, Barnes never found his rhythm. In a game decided by a few defensive breakdowns, his missed assignments stood out.
From Heroes to Heartbreak: 4 Lions Rise, 5 Fall After Crushing Divisional Loss to Commanders
