Lions T Penei Sewell on Jared Goff taking the blame for Commanders loss after 4 turnovers: ‘They’re bulls***’

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Detroit’s dream season ended in crushing disappointment Saturday in a one-off playoff loss to the Washington Commanders.

Washington’s victory was led in part by a second sensational playoff performance in a row from rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. It was fueled by a swarming defense that forced five goals in the 45-31 victory. Four of those turnovers were committed by Lions quarterback Jared Goff, who lost the ball on a strip sack and threw three interceptions, including a pick 6.

Goff’s performance quickly drew criticism, with some blaming him for Detroit’s loss. Penei Sewell didn’t hear it. Detroit’s All-Pro right tackle made his feelings clear after the game in no uncertain terms: Goff was not at fault.

“They’re bulls***,” Sewell told reporters in the locker room after the game. “I just don’t understand how in a team sport it is possible that people can put the blame on one person. It’s not like he’s the one on his own.

“I’ll never understand. But then again, that’s not my world and what I pay attention to. But they’re bulls***.”

The loss was hard to fathom in Detroit after a 15-2 regular season in which the Lions were the favorites to advance to the Super Bowl from the NFC. After decades of largely losing football and never playing in a Super Bowl, Detroit finally had a team to feel good about.

That good feeling came to a screeching, jarring halt on Saturday, ahead of an offseason that could change the team’s trajectory. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn are both expected to leave for head coaching opportunities, and a repeat of 2024’s success is certainly not guaranteed.

This was the best chance the Lions ever had, and the outcome of the season was the same as ever – except for the Super Bowl.

Questions about Goff will continue to swirl this offseason. For now, he has the support of one of the most prominent voices on the team.