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Come Fan with UsMonday, June 22, 2026

49ers Vs. Lions Game Recap: Alex Smith, Defense Lead San Fran To 2-0

The San Francisco 49ers didn't win the NFC in 2011, but they sure seem hell-bent on rectifying that cosmic slight in 2012. Two wins over two playoff teams in the first two weeks of the 2012 NFL season, including a 27-19 win over the Detroit Lions on Sunday night, have the Niners looking like a Super Bowl contender.

Matt Ufford of SB Nation Studios reviews San Francisco's triumph, which only turned into an eight-point game after a late Detroit touchdown. Patrick Willis and the Niners' defense have allowed just three touchdowns in two contests to the high-powered Packers and Lions, but the real revelation of the Niners' season may be Alex Smith, who is flourishing under Jim Harbaugh.

Meanwhile, after a close win over the Rams in Week 1 and a struggle to score against San Francisco in Week 2, are the Lions taking a step back from 2011?

For more coverage of Sunday night’s game, check out Lions blog Pride Of Detroit and 49ers blog Niners Nation. For all your pro football needs, stay tuned to SB Nation’s NFL hub.

Check out the SB Nation Channel on YouTube

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