49ers vs Detroit Lions Match: Key Player Stats and Takeaways

When the San Francisco 49ers and the Detroit Lions clashed in Week 17 of the 2024 NFL season, it was more than just a game—it was an offensive shootout. The final score stood at Lions 40, 49ers 34. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the standout player statistics and what they revealed about both teams.

Passing and Rushing Highlights

The Detroit Lions once again relied on quarterback Jared Goff, who delivered one of his most efficient performances of the season. Goff completed 26 of 34 passes for 303 yards and three touchdowns, avoiding turnovers and keeping the Lions’ offense flowing smoothly throughout the game. His accuracy and composure under pressure were critical to Detroit’s success, especially in late-game drives.

On the other side, Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers had an impressive yardage total but struggled with turnovers. He completed 27 of 35 passes for 377 yards and three touchdowns, but also threw two costly interceptions that ultimately shifted momentum in favor of the Lions. While Purdy’s arm talent was on display, those turnovers highlighted the difference between the two quarterbacks’ performances.

In the rushing department, Jahmyr Gibbs was the star for Detroit. He carried the ball 18 times for 117 yards and one touchdown, breaking through tackles and finding consistent gaps in the 49ers’ defensive front. Gibbs’ speed and explosiveness gave Detroit the balance it needed to keep San Francisco’s defense guessing.

In contrast, the 49ers’ running game never truly found its rhythm. The team managed just 75 rushing yards in total, relying heavily on Purdy’s passing instead. Without a consistent ground threat, San Francisco struggled to sustain long drives and control the tempo of the game.

Receiving Standouts

The 49ers’ receiving corps showed flashes of brilliance, especially from Ricky Pearsall, who recorded eight catches for 141 yards and a touchdown—his best performance of the season. Pearsall’s route running and ability to find open spaces made him a constant threat throughout the night.

Detroit’s receivers complemented Goff’s passing with a balanced effort. While no single player dominated the stat sheet, the team’s group approach paid dividends. Tight ends and wide receivers consistently converted key downs, and the depth of targets kept San Francisco’s secondary on its heels.

Team Stats That Mattered

When breaking down the team statistics, the matchup was closer than the scoreboard might suggest:

• Total Yards: 49ers 475 vs Lions 439

• Time of Possession: Lions 34:52 vs 49ers 25:08

• Total Plays: Lions 69 vs 49ers 60

• Turnovers: 49ers 2 vs Lions 0

• Third-Down Conversions: Lions converted more critical attempts

The numbers tell an interesting story. The 49ers actually gained more yards overall, but the Lions dominated the possession battle and avoided mistakes. San Francisco moved the ball efficiently between the 20-yard lines but failed to capitalize consistently in the red zone. Detroit, on the other hand, turned its chances into points with ruthless precision.

What These Stats Tell Us

Despite outgaining their opponent, the 49ers’ key errors made all the difference. The Lions’ disciplined play—particularly their ability to protect the ball—proved decisive. Jared Goff’s calm leadership combined with Gibbs’ electric running created the perfect offensive balance.

The 49ers’ biggest weakness in this matchup was their inability to establish a running game. Relying almost exclusively on Purdy’s passing meant Detroit’s defense could anticipate the play calls more easily. Additionally, San Francisco’s lack of control over the clock limited their ability to dictate tempo or rest their defense between drives.

Turnovers were another crucial factor. Both of Purdy’s interceptions led to Lions’ scoring opportunities, swinging the momentum at vital moments. Detroit’s mistake-free football was the foundation of their victory.

Player Focus: Who Made the Biggest Impact?

Jared Goff (Lions)
Goff’s accuracy, composure, and leadership stood out in this game. Completing over 76 percent of his passes without a turnover, he demonstrated how efficient quarterback play can elevate an entire offense.

Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions)
The rookie running back was a difference-maker. His 117 rushing yards and touchdown showcased his blend of speed and patience, providing Detroit with balance and explosiveness.

Brock Purdy (49ers)
While Purdy’s numbers were impressive, his decision-making under pressure needs improvement. His two interceptions overshadowed what could have been a standout performance, reminding fans how critical ball security is at this level.

Ricky Pearsall (49ers)
Pearsall’s emergence as a reliable target was a positive takeaway for the 49ers. His 141-yard outing proved he can be a consistent weapon in the passing game moving forward.

Game Analysis and Momentum Shifts

One of the defining moments of the game came in the third quarter when the Lions capitalized on a Purdy interception deep in 49ers’ territory. That turnover directly led to a touchdown, giving Detroit a lead it never relinquished. From there, Goff’s control of the offense allowed the Lions to manage the game efficiently.

San Francisco’s defensive line applied pressure but struggled to contain Gibbs’ agility. The Lions’ offensive line deserves credit for providing clean pockets for Goff and creating running lanes for Gibbs. Meanwhile, Detroit’s defense, though tested by Purdy’s deep passes, managed to tighten up in key moments.

Final Thoughts

The 49ers vs Detroit Lions match serves as a perfect example of how football is often decided not just by yardage but by efficiency, discipline, and timing. The Lions’ combination of consistent offense and mistake-free execution ultimately outshined the 49ers’ statistical edge.

For Detroit, the victory reinforced their identity as a team capable of beating high-powered opponents through smart play and balance. For San Francisco, the loss was a reminder that turnovers and clock management can determine outcomes even in games where you dominate the stat sheet.