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Lions Roar to No. 1 Seed: Anzalone’s Return Sparks Dominant 31-9 Victory

The Detroit Lions made a statement Sunday night, demolishing the Vikings 31-9 to secure both the NFC North title and the conference’s No. 1 seed. The victory, powered by Jahmyr Gibbs’ four-touchdown performance, gives Detroit home-field advantage throughout the playoffs and a crucial first-round bye.

Alex Anzalone’s return proved to be a game-changer for Detroit’s defense. The captain, playing with a specially padded cast on his broken forearm, was instrumental in neutralizing Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson and helping hold Minnesota to just three field goals. His presence brought stability to a defense that’s been piecing things together through injuries, and his leadership was evident as the Lions consistently pressured Sam Darnold into erratic throws all night.

However, the celebration was tempered by another defensive injury, as rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold was carted off in the third quarter with a foot injury. Arnold, who had recorded two tackles and a deflection before exiting, appeared to hurt his right foot during a tackle on Aaron Jones. The severity of the injury remains unknown, but the first-round bye gives him extra time to recover.

The Lions’ path to the Super Bowl now runs through Ford Field. They’ll watch Wild Card weekend from home, waiting to see who emerges as their divisional round opponent. Meanwhile, the Vikings (14-3) head to Los Angeles for a Monday night wild-card matchup against the Rams.

This victory marks a historic moment for Detroit – their first-ever No. 1 seed and a legitimate shot at reaching their first Super Bowl. With Anzalone back anchoring the defense and Gibbs setting franchise records on offense, the Lions look ready for a deep playoff run.

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