Santa Clara, Calif. – The Detroit Lions nearly pulled off another signature fourth-quarter rally against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, but the team was unable to overcome a disastrous third quarter in the 30-27 defeat.
In the closing minutes, rookie safety Tracy Walker stepped in front of a third-down pass 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 leaves the Lions with stinging memories of a second straight third-quarter meltdown.
"We had some breakdowns in all three phases," Lions coach Matt Patricia said.