Lions Stun Texans 26-23 with Jake Bates’ Last-Second Field Goal After Goff’s 5 Interceptions

Detroit Lions Pull Off Stunning Comeback, Beating Houston Texans 26-23 Despite 5 Jared Goff Interceptions

In what can only be described as a wild and improbable game, the Detroit Lions defied the odds to beat the Houston Texans 26-23, despite an abysmal performance from quarterback Jared Goff. With five interceptions—more than double his season total—Goff's struggles seemed to be the story of the game. But in a twist that only the NFL could deliver, the Lions rallied from a 23-7 halftime deficit to pull off a shocking win on the road.

Houston, fresh off a strong start to the season and with a firm hold on first place in the AFC South, looked poised to hand Detroit its second loss of the year. However, the Lions showed resilience, proving that they could win even when everything went wrong.

Goff’s performance was uncharacteristic, especially after a string of stellar games that had made him one of the NFL’s hottest quarterbacks. The first half was a nightmare for him—he threw three interceptions, including one on a Hail Mary attempt just before halftime. Houston capitalized, getting two field goals and a key touchdown from John Metchie III, who scored his first career touchdown with just 12 seconds left in the half, giving the Texans a commanding 23-7 lead.

The Second Half: Defense and Determination

The second half began with some promise for Detroit. On the very first play after the break, the Lions' defense made a big play as cornerback Carlton Davis III picked off rookie QB C.J. Stroud. It was a glimmer of hope, but Goff quickly squandered it by throwing another interception on the very next drive—this time to Kamari Lassiter at the Texans' 1-yard line.

Despite the blunders, the Lions never gave up. Goff threw his fifth interception later in the third quarter, and by that point, the Lions were down 23-13, with little momentum to speak of. But just when it seemed like the game was slipping away, Detroit’s offense, led by Goff’s resilience, began to come alive.

A Remarkable Rally in the 4th Quarter

With the clock ticking down in the fourth quarter, Amon-Ra St. Brown caught a touchdown pass, pulling the Lions within three at 23-20 with over 11 minutes remaining. The game had turned into a nail-biter, with Detroit now within striking distance despite Goff’s disastrous first half.

The Texans had a chance to extend their lead, but kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn missed a crucial 58-yard field goal attempt with just under five minutes to go. The miss gave Detroit excellent field position, and they capitalized. Goff, putting his earlier mistakes behind him, connected with St. Brown on a key third-down play to put the Lions in range for the game-tying field goal.

Then, it was Jake Bates’ turn to shine. The Lions’ kicker, who had already connected on a clutch 58-yard field goal to tie the game at 23, stepped up to attempt a 52-yard field goal as time expired. The pressure was immense, but Bates drilled the ball straight through the uprights, giving Detroit a 26-23 win in dramatic fashion.

A Win That Will Boost Lions’ Super Bowl Hopes

The Lions' ability to overcome adversity on Sunday night will undoubtedly give them confidence heading into the latter part of the season. Despite Goff’s five interceptions, their defense and special teams played key roles in the comeback. It was a gritty, hard-fought win against a tough opponent, and it proves that the Lions can win in multiple ways—whether it’s a high-scoring shootout or a defensive battle.

Detroit’s victory also gives them a 8-1 record, solidifying their position as a legitimate Super Bowl contender. Goff’s mistakes may have cost them at times, but his ability to bounce back and lead his team when it mattered most shows the resilience that will be critical as the season progresses.

For Houston, this loss will sting, especially with a missed field goal and a missed opportunity to put the game away. But despite the defeat, the Texans showed they can compete with the best, led by rookie QB C.J. Stroud. They’ll look to bounce back next week and keep their playoff hopes alive.