The Detroit Lions narrowly avoided a historic collapse in their 2026 NFL season opener against the New Orleans Saints, needing both overtime and standout defense. Initially, the Lions appeared to have a comfortable win within reach. However, the Saints rallied, pushing the game into overtime after Juwan Johnson’s touchdown with 1:07 left in the fourth quarter.
The Saints nearly completed their 21-point rally when kicker Daniel Carlson attempted a 62-yard field goal as the clock expired, but the shot went wide right, leading to the season’s first overtime match.
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Amon-Ra St. Brown of the Lions celebrated a touchdown in overtime alongside Isaac Teslaa during the match against the Saints at Ford Field, Detroit, on September 13, 2026. Both teams traded touchdowns in overtime, with St. Brown scoring first for the Lions. Subsequently, Saints’ Noah Fant responded with a touchdown during the next drive.
New Orleans head coach Kellen Moore opted to go for a two-point conversion after an 80-yard drive, aiming for a decisive win. However, the Lions’ defense stepped up. A stack of three receivers went out for the Saints, but quarterback Tyler Shough’s pass to rookie Bryce Lance was disrupted, energizing the Detroit fans in Ford Field.
The Lions, who had high hopes for the season, celebrated their narrow escape. A loss would have marked an unprecedented 21-point collapse in franchise history. Despite the close call, the team is satisfied they did not become part of such history.
Initially, the Lions dominated until the Saints, struggling through much of the game, made a comeback in the third quarter with running back Kendre Miller scoring. New Orleans continued with subsequent scoring drives, including a touchdown from Devaughn Vele and a Carlson field goal.
For the Lions, although improvements in defense are needed, Jahmyr Gibbs showcased his offensive potential. With David Montgomery’s departure, Gibbs filled the gap, rushing for 156 yards and securing two touchdowns. He also received five passes from Jared Goff, adding 30 more yards. Gibbs’ 34 touches translated into 186 total yards, setting high expectations for his performance throughout the season.
On the Saints’ side, Shough threw for 410 yards on 35-of-56 completions but faced two interceptions by the Lions. His main target, Chris Olave, successfully caught 10 passes, accumulating 182 yards.
Scott Thompson, a sports writer for Fox News Digital, provided coverage of this event.