Santa Clara, Calif. – The Detroit Lions almost pulled off an improbable rally when rookie Tracy Walker stepped in front of a third-down pass in the closing minutes and returned it deep into San Francisco territory, setting up a potential game-winning score.
But a penalty away from the ball negated the stunning turnover and will leave the Lions with stinging memories of a second straight third-quarter meltdown following Sunday’s 30-27 loss to the 49ers.
Coming out of the locker room down 13-10, the Lions allowed 49ers return man D.J. Reed to break free for a 101-yard touchdown return to open the half.