Lions victors/vanquished: Amon-Ra St. Brown shows grit, Aidan Hutchinson remains silent

The Detroit Lions overcame the Dallas Cowboys 44-30 in Week 14 of the 2025 NFL season at Ford Field, showcasing standout performances and some areas of concern.

Top Performers

Wide Receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown

St. Browns participation was uncertain until an hour and a half before kickoff due to an ankle sprain suffered during Thanksgiving against Green Bay. Yet, he quickly made an impact, catching a 7-yard pass from Jared Goff on Detroits opening play. By halftime, he had four catches, including a 26-yard reception that set up the Lions first touchdown.

He also drew a crucial pass interference penalty in the final minute of the first half, helping set up a 47-yard field goal by Jake Bates to extend the Lions lead to 20-9. St. Brown later added a 37-yard catch in the fourth quarter that helped seal the victory. He finished the game with six receptions for 92 yards.

Linebacker Jack Campbell

After recent struggles, the Lions defense saw a resurgence with Campbell leading the charge. He pressured Dak Prescott for an 11-yard loss in the first quarter and forced a turnover by stripping tight end Jake Ferguson, which led to a 35-yard touchdown run by David Montgomery. Campbell finished with a team-high 12 tackles, anchoring the defensive effort.

Running Backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs

The Lions effectively balanced their rushing attack, utilizing both Montgomery and Gibbs. Gibbs excelled as a receiver with seven catches for 77 yards, while Montgomery powered through defenders for a 35-yard touchdown run. Together, they combined for 193 yards of offense and four total touchdowns, highlighting their dynamic partnership.

Underperformers

Defensive End Aidan Hutchinson

Since signing a $180 million contract extension, Hutchinson has struggled to meet expectations. Against Dallas, he recorded no sacks and has totaled only 2.5 sacks in six games since the new deal. Teammate Al-Quadin Muhammad outperformed him with multiple quarterback hits, leaving Hutchinson in need of a stronger impact on the field.

Lions Secondary

The secondary had a challenging night as Dak Prescott completed 31 of 47 passes for 376 yards. Cornerbacks D.J. Reed and Amik Robertson were frequently targeted, and injuries to safety Thomas Harper early in the game and Brian Branch in the fourth quarter left the defensive backfield shorthanded. By the end, backups Daniel Thomas and Avonte Maddox were left to cover deep, underscoring ongoing vulnerabilities.

The Lions secured a crucial win but saw both impressive performances and areas needing improvement as they continue the 2025 campaign.

Author: Riley Thompson