Mike Tirico Says Lions Win Has Asterisk

Detroit Lions fans react to Mike Tirico saying Lions win had asterisk.

The Detroit Lions were able to defeat the Kansas City Chiefs in a hard-fought contest over the course of 60 minutes. 

Leading by only a single point, the Lions' defense was able to make the plays needed to close out the contest, as the Chiefs did not -- at least in the opener -- make the miracle comeback. 

Unfortunately, NBC commentator Mike Tirico attempted to dampen the mood of elated Lions fans by stating the win had an "asterisk," due to the absence of multiple key Chiefs players, including Chris Jones and Travis Kelce. 

Jones has been embroiled in a holdout, as the veteran is expecting to earn more in his next contract. 

Additional Reading: Lions-Chiefs Grades

Kelce, meanwhile, was forced to miss the contest, due to suffering a bone bruise the week of the game. 

Supporters and media members immediately took to social media to share their frustration with a national broadcaster that has Michigan ties. Tirico, to no surprise, took some major heat for attempting to downplay one of the Lions' best victories in several seasons. 

One supporter posted, "Tirico calling that an asterisk win is a joke. Chris Jones holding out isn’t a Detroit problem. Kelce being hurt? Injuries happen. Give credit where credit is due." 

Kory Woods wrote, "Mike Tirico saying this #Lions W has an asterisk next to it is probably not going to go over well with Michiganders when he returns to the state."

Regardless of what others may think of the victory, Detroit still heads home to play the Seattle Seahawks at Ford Field with a record of 1-0. 

Here is a sample of the reaction online to Tirico's comments. 

Mike Tirico saying this #Lions W has an asterisk next to it is probably not going to go over well with Michiganders when he returns to the state.

— Kory E. Woods (@KoryEWoods) September 8, 2023

Tirico calling that an asterisk win is a joke. Chris Jones holding out isn’t a Detroit problem. Kelce being hurt? Injuries happen. Give credit where credit is due @miketirico. @NFLonNBC

— Brandon McAuliffe (@sportsfreaknut) September 8, 2023

W is a W. Don’t care at all what he says. Standings say 1-0.

— Seggie of SNC (@SNCSeggie) September 8, 2023

Mike Tirico can take his “asterisk” and shove it. The Lions earned this win regardless of who was on the field or not

— MSU Chief of Propaganda (@OdellBretthamJr) September 8, 2023