3 Takeaways from Lions' Week 16 Win vs. Vikings

While the outcome seemed in doubt at times, the Detroit Lions outlasted the Minnesota Vikings in Week 16. With their 30-24 victory, the Lions clinched their first division title since winning the NFC Central in 1993.

Now, the Lions are your 2023 NFC North champs.

Fans could hardly ask for a better holiday gift than an early ticket to the playoffs. However, Detroit undoubtedly wants to be more than just a postseason participant or a nice story. The Lions have two weeks to prepare for the playoffs, and as Sunday's game showed, there are some issues that need to be addressed.

Here's what we learned during the Lions' Week 16 win over the Vikings.

The Defense Remains a Big Concern

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Vikings WR Justin Jefferson catches a pass against the Lions in Week 16

It may feel strange to start with a negative on such a positive Monday for the Lions. However, Detroit's lackluster play on defense as of late can't be ignored.

Previously, it was Detroit's run defense that was a concern. Before blowing out the Denver Broncos last Saturday, the Lions had surrendered more than 100 rushing yards in four straight games—and they went 2-2 in that stretch.

Against the Vikings, though, it was Detroit's secondary that struggled. Minnesota rushed for only 17 yards and 1.5 yards per carry, but quarterback Nick Mullens gashed Detroit for 411 yards and two touchdowns.

Yes, the Lions did snag four interceptions, though at least one of them was the result of a baffling decision by Mullens. If not for the parade of takeaways, the Lions might not have walked away with a win.

The Lions—who entered the week ranked 14th in total defense and 23rd in points allowed—have to figure out how to play a complete game on that side of the ball. Potential playoff opponents like the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles are highly unlikely to turn the ball over at such a high rate.

Jahmyr Gibbs Has Hit His Stride at the Right Time

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Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs

The Lions raised a lot of eyebrows when they used the 12th overall pick on running back Jahmyr Gibbs back in April. They didn't quiet many questions early in the season either, as Gibbs often took a back seat to veteran David Montgomery.

Recently, however, Detroit has unleashed the rookie on opposing defenses with tremendous results. On Sunday, he produced more than 80 scrimmage yards with a touchdown for the third straight game.

Gibbs finished with 80 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns, four receptions and 20 receiving yards. He did lose a fumble, but he also helped Detroit put the game away.

The rookie has become one of the most explosive options on a Lions offense that also features Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams and rookie phenom Sam LaPorta. With Gibbs learning how to thrive in a prominent role, the Lions are equipped to keep virtually any defense off-balance—as long as Jared Goff can avoid turnovers, as he did against Minnesota.

This collection of offensive playmakers is a big reason why Detroit will remain a threat to win, even when its defense isn't playing at a high level.

Detroit's Work Isn't Over

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Lions head coach Dan Campbell

The Lions have experienced a remarkable turnaround since head coach Dan Campbell took over in 2021. Saturday's win represented arguably the Lions' biggest since that 1993 season.

"To be able to, you know, have the NFC North championship in return for all the stuff you put into it, it's just, it's special," veteran offensive tackle Taylor Decker told reporters after the game.

There were times when it felt like Detroit might not have this victory. Minnesota took the lead in the third quarter and pulled within a touchdown during the fourth. However, while the Lions didn't play their best game defensively, they never let up their intensity. Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu sealed the win with an interception at the Lions' five-yard line.

The Lions cannot afford to get complacent now. While the NFC's No. 1 seed is a long shot, and Detroit might not have a ton to play for over the final two weeks, the team has to keep a playoff mentality.

Detroit is now in search of its biggest win since the 1991 season, which is the last time the Lions won a playoff game. While the Lions are division champs, there's still work to be done.