Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff is setting his sights on one primary objective for the 2024 season – winning a Super Bowl. Despite falling just short in the NFC Championship Game against the San Francisco 49ers, the Lions demonstrated their potential as a playoff contender and their readiness to compete for the ultimate prize. They held a 17-point lead over the Niners in the second half, showcasing their resilience and talent.
During an interview, Goff discussed his goal for the upcoming season, as well as his thoughts on defeating his former team, the Los Angeles Rams, in the wild card round of the playoffs. Additionally, he expressed excitement about offensive coordinator Ben Johnson returning for another season with the Lions.
It is evident that Goff is driven by the desire to hoist the Lombardi Trophy in 2024. The Lions exceeded expectations during this year's postseason, emerging as the Cinderella team. While they were expected to show improvement after a flirtation with the playoffs the previous year, few anticipated their near miss at reaching the Super Bowl.
The Lions achieved several milestones during their playoff campaign this year. They clinched their first division title since 1993 and secured their first playoff victory since the 1991 season. This marked the most playoff wins in a single postseason for the Lions since their last championship triumph in 1957.
Although the loss to the Niners was undoubtedly painful for Goff, he acknowledges the significant strides the Lions made as a franchise that had not seen playoff action since the 2016 season. Along the way, Goff led the Lions to a notable victory over his former team, the Rams, in the wild card round. This win held significance not only due to the Lions' franchise history but also because of Goff's personal journey. Despite having led the Rams to a Super Bowl appearance and multiple playoff berths during his time with the team, he was traded to the Lions in exchange for Matthew Stafford.
Goff emphasizes that the win over the Rams was about the success of the Lions as a team and not about him seeking revenge against his former team. He acknowledges emotions were present, but once the game kicked off, it became a regular game. The focus shifted to the Lions' quest for their first playoff victory in over three decades, an accomplishment far greater in significance than any personal vendetta.
As the Lions shed the label of perennial playoff losers this season, the next step for the franchise is to continue building upon their newfound success. While there are discussions surrounding Goff's future with the team as he enters the final year of his contract, his productivity and relatively low base salary of $21.7 million make him an asset for the Lions moving forward. Additionally, the return of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson ensures continuity and stability for the Lions' offense as they aim to compete for a Super Bowl in the upcoming season.
The impact of Johnson's return is not lost on Goff, who describes it as 'huge.' While Johnson had opportunities elsewhere, he ultimately concluded that the best fit for him is with the Lions. Goff and the entire offense are excited about the continuity and are confident in Johnson's ability to lead them towards success.
Head coach Dan Campbell has also received criticism following the playoff exit for certain decisions made during the game. However, he has guided the Lions from being a three-win team to a 12-win team in just three seasons. Goff praises Campbell's exceptional people skills and his proficiency in coaching offense, defense, and special teams. Campbell's experience as a former NFL player lends credibility to his coaching approach and earns respect from the players.
In conclusion, with key players like Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Sam LaPorta returning, along with a coaching staff that has proven their worth, the Lions are poised to overcome their final obstacle – capturing the Lombardi Trophy. With the fourth-best betting odds to win the Super Bowl according to BetMGM, the Lions have officially shed the image of perennial underdogs and established themselves as legitimate contenders. The 2024 season holds immense potential for Detroit as they strive to achieve their ultimate goal – winning a Super Bowl.
