Detroit Lions safety Ifeatu Melifonwu (6) celebrates after he intercepted a pass against the Minnesota Vikings during the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Lions seal first division title since 1993 with clutch interception

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 12/24/23

For the first time since 1993, the Detroit Lions can call themselves a division champion.

Against Minnesota, the Vikings (7-8) were mounting a comeback and had a chance to spoil Detroit's title hopes on their final drive. With 49 seconds remaining, Minnesota quarterback Nick Mullens targeted wide receiver Justin Jefferson, but safety Ifeatu Melifonwu intercepted the pass, clinching the 30-24 victory and the NFC North.

THE @LIONS PICK IT AND WILL CLINCH THE NFC NORTH. #DETvsMIN pic.twitter.com/EYMCu0ddkZ
— NFL (@NFL) December 24, 2023

The Lions (11-4) also secured a playoff spot with the victory and will host a postseason game at Ford Field for the first time.

It's a remarkable turnaround for the franchise. In 2021, Detroit finished 3-13-1 in its first season under head coach Dan Campbell. However, Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes stayed the course.

They built a talented core that includes stars, such as wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and defensive end Aidan Hutchinson.

Clearly, the Lions are on the verge of something special and becoming a Super Bowl contender.

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