Jared Goff Says Lions Have 'Added Motivation' to Beat Commanders in Playoff Rematch

The Detroit Lions were in position for a run to the Super Bowl last year after finishing the regular season 15-2, good enough for the NFC's No. 1 seed. However, their playoff stay lasted just one game after the No. 6 seed Washington Commanders upset the host Lions, 45-31.

Now the two teams are set to meet again Sunday at Washington, and Lions quarterback Jared Goff told reporters Wednesday that the team has "added motivation" for victory after that tough loss.

"That's definitely a part of it, absolutely. I think more than that, we want to get off of a losing streak here and get a W," Goff said, per ESPN's Eric Woodyard. "Certainly, you're thinking about that, but I think it's nine games ago now.

"So yeah, we're trying to get a win this year and maybe use that as a little added motivation if we need it."

By the time the 2024 playoffs hit, the Lions were severely shorthanded on defense, with players out for the game including Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill and Carlton Davis. The defense struggled to stop rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and the Commanders, who amassed 481 total yards.

However, Detroit actually out-gained Washington, amassing 521 yards of their own. The problem was turnovers, as Goff threw three interceptions and wide receiver Jameson Williams tossed one on a trick play. Goff also lost a fumble following a sack. Meanwhile, Washington played turnover-free football all game, which played a huge role in the victory.

Now the Lions get a chance at revenge against a 3-6 Commanders team that's been snake-bit by injuries all year. Washington will also be without Daniels, who suffered a dislocated left elbow last Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks.

This is also a big game for the Lions regardless of the opponent. Detroit dropped to 5-3 last Sunday after the Minnesota Vikings beat them 27-24. The Lions are currently just behind the 5-2-1 Green Bay Packers for first in the NFC North, but the division is tight with the 5-3 Chicago Bears and 4-4 Vikings also in the mix.

Kickoff is set for 4:25 p.m. ET on Sunday.