Tensions were high in the first quarter of Monday night's game between Detroit Lions And the San Francisco 49ers.
The Lions were looking for another win to build momentum heading into the NFC North title game against the Minnesota Vikings next week, while 49ers They hoped to save face from a disastrous, injury-riddled regular season that left them without a playoff berth.
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Detroit Lions safety Kirby Joseph, No. 31, pushes San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Juwan Jennings, No. 15, during the first half at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Dec. 30, 2024. (Junfu Han/USA Today Network via Imagen Images)
Therefore, it was not surprising that a few players got into fights as emotions ran high.
The 49ers started the drive with a touchdown pass from Brock Purdy to Ricky Pearsall. However, before that play occurred, players from both teams were penalized for fighting.
San Francisco wide receiver Jauan Jennings and Lions defensive back Terrion Arnold got into a brawl. Jennings blocked Arnold from getting into the end zone. Kirby Joseph came over and pushed Jennings into the stands while Arnold slapped the player on the helmet.
Joseph and Jennings were penalized for unnecessary roughness. Joseph apologized after the match but made it clear that he would defend his teammates.
He said on his Facebook page: “Also, man, I will go to defend my brother and I will protect him no matter what happens, whether it is right or wrong, but I will have his back.” Detroit Free Press. “Yes, you don't play that.
“No. I don't play that, especially around my rook, man. This is my rook. I don't let nobody play on my rook, man. I'm the only one who can screw it up and do whatever I want. But I don't play that game, man. I feel like a keeper.” My brother, I feel that when my men are in trouble, it is my job to protect them.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings, #15, and Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold, #0, hold hands after a play during the first quarter at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, December 30, 2024. (Photos by Sergio Estrada-Imagine)
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings, #15, and Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold, #0, combine during the first quarter at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, December 30, 2024. (Photos by Sergio Estrada-Imagine)
Detroit He won the game 40-34. Joseph had two interceptions – both to Purdy.
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Lions quarterback Jared Goff threw three touchdown passes while Jahmir Gibbs ran for 117 yards and a touchdown.
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