By Mummy Grace 
The Detroit Lions were poised to host their first-ever NFC Championship Game on Sunday, but their dreams of reaching the Super Bowl came to an end last week. A 45-31 loss to the Washington Commanders in the Divisional Round at Ford Field ended Detroit’s historic season, leaving the team and fans grappling with disappointment.
While the Commanders face the Eagles today in Philadelphia for a chance to play in Super Bowl 59, the Lions are left reflecting on “what if?”
Player Reactions on Social Media
- Terrion Arnold (Rookie CB):
Arnold shared his emotions on Instagram with a poignant video set to slow R&B music. “POV: you should be playing today,” he captioned, accompanied by a broken heart emoji. - Alex Anzalone (LB):
Taking a different approach, Anzalone announced on X that he’d be avoiding football and social media altogether. “Well, I guess today’s a good day for no social media and TV,” he wrote, signaling his intention to steer clear of reminders about the NFC Championship. - Amik Robertson (CB):
Robertson, who suffered a broken arm during the Divisional Round loss, also expressed his decision to avoid playoff football entirely now that the Lions have been eliminated.
A Season of Growth and Heartbreak
The Lions’ 2024 campaign was one of their most successful in recent memory, offering hope and excitement for the future. While the abrupt end is tough to swallow, the team can take pride in their accomplishments, including their first playoff win since 1991.
Now, as the NFC title game unfolds, Detroit will watch from the sidelines, wondering what might have been had things gone differently.
Around the NFL
- Can the Commanders continue their Cinderella run against the Eagles?
- Updates on injured stars heading into Super Bowl 59.
- An early look at the AFC Championship showdown.