Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) looks to pass the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first quarter in a NFC divisional round game at Ford Field. Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Jared Goff throws TD, Lions take early lead

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 1/21/24

After a slow start, the Detroit Lions offense is heating up.

With 12:33 in the second quarter on a third-and-goal, Lions quarterback Jared Goff zipped a short pass to wide receiver Josh Reynolds for a nine-yard TD, giving Detroit a 10-3 lead. The TD capped off a 14-play, 75-yard drive.

Goff to Reynolds puts the @Lions ahead, 10-3!

: #TBvsDET on NBC
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/frRD38BNYS pic.twitter.com/JKCL0Y5GxL
— NFL (@NFL) January 21, 2024

Coming into this matchup, the main concern for the Lions was Goff's ability to handle pressure. Per Pro Football Reference, Tampa Bay has run 273 blitzes this season, the third most in the league. According to CBS Sports, Goff has a below-average 62.5 passer rating and has thrown nine interceptions when facing pressure.

It hasn't been a problem, though. Through two quarters, the former No. 1 overall pick has completed 14-of-24 passes for 99 yards.

The Lions need their franchise QB to stay calm under pressure. Detroit is trying to earn its first conference championship berth since the 1991 season.

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