Jared Goff is enjoying an exceptional year, both on and off the field. Professionally, he’s playing at an MVP level, leading the Detroit Lions toward Super Bowl contention. Personally, Goff took a significant step this year by marrying his long-time fiancée, Christen Harper. Their journey, however, has been anything but predictable, especially considering Goff’s trade to Detroit—a move that many, including himself, never expected to lead to such success. Once one of the NFL’s most struggling franchises, the Lions are now competing for a Super Bowl, and Detroit fans are embracing this unexpected turn of events. So, what has changed for the Lions? Christen Harper may have some insights into the team’s turnaround.
In a recent interview with Hank Winchester of Click on Detroit, Christen shared her thoughts on what makes the city—and the Lions—so special. Moving from California to the Midwest was a cultural shock for her and Jared, but one that they quickly embraced. She described the people of Detroit as warm, friendly, and hardworking, with an energy that’s contagious. The city’s blue-collar mentality, where residents are always ready to put in the work, deeply resonated with both her and Jared. This hardworking ethos, Christen believes, has directly influenced the Lions, motivating the team to adopt a similar “gritty” mentality.
According to Christen, the Lions have truly absorbed the spirit of Detroit, carrying with them the city’s resilience and determination. She explained that this attitude made the Motor City feel even more special to them. The team has taken on the underdog role, constantly fighting to achieve the impossible, and the support from the city’s passionate fans only amplifies that drive. For Christen, the energy in Detroit is unique—it’s a city where everyone is ready to work hard and give their best, which mirrors the Lions’ mentality on the field.
The Lions’ journey to success took a major leap last season when they made a statement by defeating the Kansas City Chiefs, the reigning Super Bowl champions, in the season opener. That win was a signal to the rest of the league that the Lions were no longer a team to be underestimated. Despite a tough loss to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game, the Lions didn’t back down. Instead, the setback fueled their resolve, and they entered this season with one clear goal: to win the Super Bowl. Now, with a 7-1 record, the Lions are firmly in contention for a spot in the big game.
As the season progresses, the Lions’ Super Bowl odds are quickly closing in on those of the Kansas City Chiefs, who have dominated the NFL in recent years with two consecutive championships. The Chiefs’ odds were already high heading into the season, but their undefeated 8-0 start has only strengthened their position. Still, the Lions are not far behind, with their odds currently at +500, just a step below the Chiefs’ +400. Detroit is not only winning games, but they are also putting on an impressive show. The team leads the NFL in scoring offense and has an exceptional turnover margin, making them one of the most complete teams in the league. Jared Goff has emerged as one of the most efficient quarterbacks, adding to the Lions’ growing confidence.
The road to the NFC Championship will likely run through the San Francisco 49ers, last season’s Super Bowl runners-up. However, the 49ers have been plagued by injuries this season, which has slowed their momentum. Other NFC contenders like the Los Angeles Rams and Dallas Cowboys have also struggled. As a result, the Lions’ toughest competition in the conference might come from the Philadelphia Eagles, and surprisingly, the Washington Commanders and Atlanta Falcons, who have both had strong seasons. If the Lions can maintain their current form, they could be heading to their first Super Bowl in franchise history come February.
With their combination of talent, determination, and the unwavering support of Detroit’s fanbase, the Lions are positioned as one of the most exciting teams in the NFL this season. If they continue to play at this level, it seems increasingly likely that Detroit could make history by securing a spot in the Super Bowl, and possibly even lifting the Lombardi Trophy for the first time in franchise history.
