Peak Jared Goff Gives Lions Edge against 49ers

Goff's big-game experience could pay dividends.

For many Detroit Lions, Sunday's NFC Championship Game will be the biggest stage they've played on at the professional level. 

That will not be the case for veteran Jared Goff, though, who took the Los Angeles Rams to the Super Bowl during the 2018 season. 

In his third year as the Lions' signal-caller, Goff has been superb. In particular, he has been turnover-free in the postseason. As a result, the Lions will be unfazed behind the direction of their leader. 

"He's gonna be great. I feel great about Goff, he's the least of my concerns. He's gonna be just fine. For him, he's done this before, he understands it," Lions head coach Dan Campbell said. "We're back on the road, and it'll be a loud environment. But, I mean, we've been in some big games on the road over the last year-and-a-half, and he's performed well. Look, we threw a ton on him last week, and I know it was at home, but we put a lot on his plate. As advanced as that defense was, all the different things they do, that required that he take on a heavy load to get us in the right play, find the matchups, read coverage and he was outstanding with that. He's gonna be fine, he's gonna be ready to go. So, I'm not worried about that." 

A point of emphasis for the Lions this week is not allowing all the outside attention to become a distraction. Having been through the pressure accompanying games like this in the past, he's navigated situations such as this. 

As a result, the veteran holds a new perspective regarding the extra eyes that have gravitated toward the team as a result of its success. 

"It's part of it. This week, it'll be a little more attention than last week. Of course, there's four teams left, and these are the times you dream of as a kid," Goff said. "You grow up hoping to be in these final games, and we're one win away from our ultimate goal of getting to the Super Bowl and winning that game as well. But, we're where our feet are today, being very present and I know this will be a challenge for us this week." 

Having already won an NFC Championship Game in his career, against a Saints team featuring Campbell and Aaron Glenn on the coaching staff no less, gives him an edge in terms of experience. 

Campbell acknowledged that the passer does have a leg up in this regard, and believes it can be advantageous for the team. 

"That helps, especially at that position. I think it does help at the quarterback position to understand what you're in," Campbell explained. "The stakes go up, and to be able to have been here before, I think, is big. He's played plenty of football, he's been in plenty of big games, different atmospheres, he's been at this place before. So, look, that only helps. That helps." 

Captain of the ship

Goff ranked among the league's best in a number of categories this season, including being top-10 in passing yards (third) and passing touchdowns (fourth).

However, the cool and calm demeanor with which he operates allows him to act as simply the captain of the ship. The offense he's piloting is one of the league's best, and he has thrived in his role as distributor. 

"It's been fun. It's been a great year up to this point. We've got, hopefully, two more to win. But, yeah, we've done a good job," Goff said. "The O-line has kept me upright, made some throws, and our receivers have played great and our running backs have played great. I think the quarterback is often a product of what's around him, and obviously, I have a lot of confidence in myself. But, I've got a lot of great players around me who have helped me out this year and made things easier." 

Remaining collected regardless of the situation has had an endearing effect on his teammates. The passer has been consistent in how he operates, which has had a valuable and calming impact on his teammates, as they've quickly rebuilt into a league power. 

"I don't think I can put into words his value, to be honest," Ragnow said. "He just captains the ship. You know, he's, I've said it before and I'll say it again, he's as steady as it gets. Highs, lows, fourth quarter, two minute, we're 3-and-13. Same guy. Just consistent, unfazed and willing to go to work and the same guy every day. And, I just can't say enough about him."