Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) runs into the end zone over Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie (22) on a play that was nullified after Goff was called for illegal motioin on the play during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) (Charlie Riedel, Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)
DETROIT – The Detroit Lions started Sunday Night Football with a bang, driving for nearly 10 minutes and scoring on a hilarious trick play.
Oh, hold on.
Wait a second.
Just a few more.
...
Flag.
While the Lions were celebrating a David Montgomery touchdown pass to Jared Goff (yes, you read that right), the officials had a long discussion and ultimately threw a flag for illegal formation.
It appeared to be the correct call. Goff, who started off under center, shifted out and hadn’t stopped to establish himself as a receiver before Montgomery took the snap.
So even though his bobbling, awkward catch at the goal line was a glorious sight to behold, it didn’t count. Instead, the Lions took a five-yard penalty and had to settle for a Jake Bates field goal to open the game.
Derick is the Digital Executive Producer for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.