DETROIT -- As the Detroit Lions entered Thursday's game with a 7-5 record, running back Jahmyr Gibbs described the regular-season homestretch as "must-win games."
The first challenge was a big one against a surging Dallas Cowboys team, but the Lions proved up to the task with a 44-30 victory. Detroit's odds to make the playoffs improved from 43% before the game to 56% with the win, according to ESPN Analytics.
"We need to treat it like playoff games," Gibbs told ESPN beforehand. Gibbs responded with three touchdown runs and 77 receiving yards. His five games with multiple TD runs are tied for second most in a season in Lions history.
The Lions also got a boost from WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, who suited up after being a game-time decision because of an ankle injury. St. Brown had six catches for 92 yards.
It was the fifth time this season the Lions have scored at least 35 points, the most in the NFL.
Jahmyr Gibbs scored three of the Lions' four rushing touchdowns. AP Photo/Ryan Sun
Detroit Lions (8-5)
Turning point: During a pivotal moment, Lions WR Jameson Williams delivered a third-down conversion with a 29-yard catch at 8:26 in the fourth after Dallas pulled within three points. Williams' big catch helped set up a 10-yard touchdown run by Gibbs on the same drive to push the Lions ahead 37-27 with 7:17 left.
Trend to watch: Lions All-Pro offensive tackle Penei Sewell has allowed a sack for the fourth consecutive game, which is the longest streak of his career, per ESPN Research. In the opening quarter, his former teammate James Houston juked past Sewell to sack QB Jared Goff on third down. Sewell hasn't given up a streak of sacks since his rookie season in 2021.
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