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Come Fan with UsTuesday, June 23, 2026

Lions Vs. Saints 2012: Detroit Offense Showing It Can Hang With New Orleans

The Detroit Lions continue to lead the New Orleans Saints, 14-7, in the Superdome. The Lions offense has looked terrific at times putting up 14 points on drives of eight and nine plays. Matthew Stafford is accurate, Calvin Johnson is heating up and the Lions are in good position as we approach halftime.

The Lions took over on their own 38-yard line midway through the second quarter after Detroit's defense caused a Drew Brees fumble (and you can see video of that play here). Unfortunately for the Lions, they couldn't put points on the board and ended up punting on the drive.

But overall, as we approach halftime, the Detroit offense is playing well enough to win.

Stafford has 180 yards passing already and looks like he and the rest of the offense can hang in there with the Saints. They’re outplaying them through one half. Calvin Johnson looks terrific and has five receptions for 76 yards. When in doubt, Stafford tends to go deep to Johnson.

It’s still early, yes, but the Lions really look like they’re capable of pulling off the big upset. We’ll see if the momentum carries into the second half.

Check out the complete 2012 NFL playoffs schedule. For more on the Saints and their trip to the playoffs, check out SB Nation’s Canal Street Chronicles. For more on the Lions and their first playoff appearance in over a decade visit Pride of Detroit.

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