Rams vs. Lions: Exploring Their Historic Rivalry Since 1937

Bassyonni

ago 11 hours

The rivalry between the Los Angeles Rams and the Detroit Lions is one of the NFL’s longest. Since their first showdown in 1937, these two franchises have faced off 89 times. The Rams hold a slight edge in their series with a record of 45 wins, 41 losses, and one tie.

Historic Rivalry Since 1937

This interconference rivalry has produced countless memorable moments and dramatic conclusions. The most significant victories for each team include Detroit’s largest win, a commanding 44-6 triumph in 2010. The Rams, on the other hand, experienced their biggest victory in 1950, defeating the Lions 65-24.

The Impactful 2021 Trade

A pivotal moment for both franchises occurred in 2021, when the Rams acquired quarterback Matthew Stafford from the Lions. In exchange, Detroit received Jared Goff, along with draft picks. This trade proved transformative for both teams.

Matthew Stafford: In his first season with Los Angeles, he led the Rams to a Super Bowl LVI title.
Jared Goff: His arrival in Detroit helped reshape the Lions into playoff contenders.

The trade is regarded as one of the most consequential in NFL history, dramatically altering the trajectories of both franchises.

Recent Matchups and Playoff Drama

The recent history of the Rams and Lions rivalry has included high-stakes matchups. In January 2024, the Lions edged the Rams 24-23 in a wild-card playoff game, featuring Stafford and Goff facing their previous teams. The Lions continued their recent dominance on September 8, 2024, winning 26-20.

Currently, the Lions are fighting for postseason positioning with an 8-5 record, while the Rams, boasting a 10-3 record, are aiming for NFC supremacy. This season’s clashes carry playoff implications for both teams.

A Rivalry of Evolution

The Rams and Lions rivalry reflects decades of NFL evolution. It has transitioned from the era of leather helmets to a modern game focused on passing and analytics. Despite infrequent matchups due to scheduling, recent seasons have seen them confront each other more often, highlighting their shared NFC status.

Stafford and Goff symbolize the current era of this rivalry, with their intertwined stories emphasizing themes of talent and opportunity. Stafford’s championship quest has already yielded a title, while Goff’s impact in Detroit has brought the Lions to competitive prominence.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 season approaches its conclusion, the Rams and Lions rivalry remains captivating. With compelling games, rich history, and personal narratives intertwined, this matchup continues to attract fans and shape postseason outcomes. Whether played in Los Angeles or Detroit, Rams and Lions games promise a blend of tradition and current NFL excitement.