Entering their Christmas Day matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, the Detroit Lions and quarterback Jared Goff needed to go out at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis and win the game to keep their playoff hopes alive.
While the Lions’ defense has been pretty stout, thanks to two sacks from Aidan Hutchinson, Goff hasn’t been good at all. In fact, he’s hearing about it from all corners of the online world.
What Are People Saying About Lions QB Jared Goff?
As Minnesota took a 13-7 lead into the fourth quarter, Goff has been handing out turnovers left and right. He has lost two fumbles and thrown two interceptions, which have played roles in not allowing the Lions to get more than a first-half touchdown on the board.
After watching Goff struggle, Barstool Sports headed out and posted on X a comment about the Lions star’s play. “Jared Goff is handing out more presents than Santa Claus,” according to the outlet’s account.
Jared Goff is handing out more presents than Santa Claus
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) December 25, 2025
The Lions had the ball back after a Vikings field goal put them up 13-7. But when Goff dropped back to pass, he was tackled by a Vikings defender and the ball slipped out of his grasp. Minnesota recovered and now has the ball early in the fourth quarter.
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ESPN NFL analyst Booger McFarland was watching the game, too, and gave a shoutout to Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores. McFarland posted on X, “Brian Flores has Jared Goff about to say uncle”. Fantasy football/NFL analyst Michael F. Florio went online and wrote, “Ah yeah, this if Jared Goff when he doesn’t have an elite O line and coordinator”.
Jared Goff with the Lions season on the line pic.twitter.com/NQlRFwM4eD
— betr (@betr) December 25, 2025
DFS analyst Matthew Betz for Fantasy Footballers posted on X, “Has anyone done the Nine meme for Goff yet? Feels like it’s time”. According to the PFSN NFL QB Impact metrics, Goff has an impact score of 82.3 and grades out to a B-.
Goff, early in the fourth quarter, is 14-of-20 passing for 140 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. The Lions need to win on Thursday in order to keep their NFL playoff hopes alive as a loss would eliminate them and give the Green Bay Packers a spot in the postseason.
Editor’s Note: This is a breaking news story and will be updated throughout the day as more information becomes available.

