Trailing for the first time all game, following a long touchdown catch by Devery Henderson that put the Saints up 17-14, Matt Stafford and the Detroit Lions took the field for their first drive of the second half. The Lions built up a 14-10 lead heading into the half, but fell victim to New Orleans’ quick strike offense and needed an answer. And on the first play from scrimmage, Detroit got its drive started off on the right foot, picking up a large chunk of yardage.
NFL Playoffs Update: Lions Come Up Empty, Saints Lead In Third Quarter
Stafford connected with Calvin Johnson for 21 yards and a first down to open the drive -- a promising start for the Lions. But that was about the only positive on the drive as a run that went nowhere on first down was followed by a back-breaking holding penalty, putting the Lions in a second and long situation. Stafford’s next pass was incomplete, and though he found Nate Burleson for eight yards on third down, the Lions were forced to punt, giving the ball back to a New Orleans offense that seems to be finding its groove.
Early in the third quarter, the Saints lead the Lions at the Superdome, 17-14.
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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.