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NFC Matchup
Saturday, 4PM FOX
Detroit (9-8) vs Tampa Bay (12-4)

The Detroit Lions came into Tampa Bay to face the two-time defending Super Bowl Champions with nothing to lose. The Bucs who started the season off slow, 2-3, after losing much of their offensive line, rallied in the second half to win 10 of their final 11. Quarterback Brad Johnson has been steady on offense, while defensively the Bucs have been donminating.

The Lions got off to a quick start when Terrance Holt intercepted Brad Johnson on the second play of the game and returned it for a touchdown. The Lions would use that play along with other early Bucs mistakes to lead 10-7 at the half. In fact, the Lions stretched that lead to 17-7, however, the Bucs would come back and score 24 of the final 27 points. Donald Driver would be the offensive star, catching 8 passes for 136 yards. The defense would buckle down in the second half and only allow 126 yards in total offense to the Lions. The victory send the Bucs to the NFC Championship game for the third straight season.

For the Lions, they are in great position to continue to build. All eleven starters on offense are under contract, while 9 of the 11 starters on defense are under contract. Look for the Lions to be stronger next season.